NCCCO Rigger Certification: Requirements, Exam Content & Career Path

The Two Paths: Rigger Level I vs. Level II

Rigger Level I (Entry Level)

• Prerequisites: None (6 months field experience preferred)
• Exam focus: Basic rigging principles, sling selection, knots
• Salary range: $40,000-$55,000/year
• Job focus: Standard rigging on common equipment

Rigger Level II (Advanced)

• Prerequisites: Rigger Level I certification + 1 year experience
• Exam focus: Complex rigging, load calculations, specialized scenarios
• Salary range: $60,000-$85,000/year
• Job focus: Heavy industrial, specialized projects, team leadership

What You'll Be Tested On

Load Calculations & Rigging Math (30%)

• Multi-point suspension systems
• Center of gravity calculations
• Sling angle reduction factors
• Wire rope and chain compatibility

Equipment Knowledge (25%)

• Slings (wire rope, nylon, chain)
• Shackles, hooks, spreader bars
• Load indicators and safety devices
• Inspection procedures

Safety & Regulations (35%)

• OSHA 1926.550 rigging standards
• ASME B30 compliance
• Pre-lift documentation
• Hazard identification

Practical Rigging Skills (10%)

• Knot tying (bowline, clove hitch, etc.)
• Load securement
• Communication with operators

The Rigger Career Advantage

Riggers with NCCCO certification earn 40% more than non-certified riggers and have access to:

• Major construction projects (premium pay)
• Industrial plant work
• Specialized equipment rigging
• Team lead positions
• International opportunities

Real Rigger Salary Data (2024)

• Non-certified: $30,000-$45,000
• Rigger Level I: $40,000-$60,000
• Rigger Level II: $60,000-$90,000
• Specialized riggers: $80,000-$120,000+

Your Certification Pathway

Month 1: Foundation

• Complete online study modules
• Take 3-4 practice exams
• Identify weak areas

Month 2: Intensive Training

• 2-3 day on-site hands-on program
• Practice complex rigging scenarios
• Learn from NCCCO-certified instructors

Month 3: Certification

• NCCCO exam registration
• Pass exam (70%+ required)
• Receive 5-year credential

Why Most Riggers Fail (And How You Won't)

Top failure reasons:

1. Weak rigging math skills (40% of failures)
2. Unfamiliar with ASME B30 standards (25%)
3. No hands-on practice (20%)
4. Poor load calculation application (15%)

Solution: Hands-on training + practical problems + NCCCO-certified instructors = 94% pass rate.

Level I to Level II Progression

After earning Rigger Level I, many operators advance within 12-18 months. Level II opens doors to:

• Specialized industrial rigging
• Heavy equipment installation
• Project engineering roles
• Training positions

Next Steps

Don't leave money on the table. Request a rigger certification assessment and find the fastest path to your NCCCO credential.