In Australia’s most remote and demanding worksites, not a single crane moves without two key professionals: the Rigger and the Dogman.
They are the eyes and ears of every lift, the people responsible for keeping loads balanced, signals clear, and operations safe. Whether it’s positioning a 200-tonne conveyor module in the Pilbara or assembling a wind turbine in South Australia, Riggers and Dogmen are the unsung heroes of the country’s industrial backbone.
With 2026 seeing a record wave of new mining, LNG, and renewable energy projects, demand for certified rigging professionals has never been higher. This guide explores everything from responsibilities and licences to salaries, training, and the real-life rhythm of FIFO rigging work.
1. The Role of FIFO Riggers and Dogmen
Riggers and Dogmen work as part of lifting teams to manage, guide, and secure heavy loads using cranes, hoists, and rigging equipment. Their work is a blend of technical skill, situational awareness, and trust — every movement requires complete coordination with crane operators and site supervisors.
Dogman Responsibilities
- Direct crane operators during lifting and lowering operations using hand and radio signals.
- Select and inspect slings, chains, shackles, and lifting gear.
- Secure loads safely and ensure even weight distribution.
- Assist with crane setup, ground assessment, and boom clearance checks.
- Work closely with Riggers to manage load stability and balance.
Rigger Responsibilities
- Plan and execute complex lifts, including multi-crane operations.
- Erect and dismantle cranes, hoists, and heavy structures.
- Install static and suspended rigging such as sheaves, pulleys, and guy lines.
- Read engineering drawings and rigging plans.
- Supervise Dogmen and coordinate lift logistics.
- Conduct pre-lift safety meetings and risk assessments.
The difference is scope and complexity: Dogmen guide and secure; Riggers design and execute.
2. Types of Rigging Work in FIFO Projects
Rigging is not a one-size-fits-all trade. FIFO Riggers and Dogmen work across industries that rely on precise, high-risk lifting.
| Type of Rigging Work | Description | Common Equipment and Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Structural Rigging | Assembly of buildings, conveyors, tanks, and bridges. | Franna MAC25, Liebherr LTM 1200, Grove GMK4100L |
| Mechanical Rigging | Installation of pumps, motors, and pipe spools. | Enerpac jacking systems, All-Lift gear, Crosby shackles |
| Crane Erection / Dismantling | Setup and breakdown of tower and crawler cranes. | Manitowoc 18000, Kobelco CKE2500, Favelle Favco M1280D |
| Offshore and Marine Rigging | LNG, oil and gas platforms, and shipyards. | Liebherr BOS offshore cranes, Palfinger marine cranes |
| Renewable Energy Rigging | Erection of wind turbine towers and blades. | Vestas V162 installations, Tadano AC 5.220-1 all-terrain cranes |
| Shutdown and Maintenance | Lifting heavy components during plant turnarounds. | Grove RT765, Terex rough terrain cranes |
Each category requires advanced skills, physical endurance, and teamwork under extreme environmental and time constraints.
3. Where FIFO Riggers and Dogmen Work in 2026
Western Australia
The Pilbara and Goldfields remain the heart of rigging activity, with ongoing work in Port Hedland, Karratha, Tom Price, and Kalgoorlie. Key projects include BHP and FMG expansions and major wind energy installations.
Queensland
Rigging demand is strong in the Bowen Basin and Gladstone LNG corridor, especially for shutdown maintenance and gas plant expansions.
Northern Territory
LNG, defence, and mining projects near Darwin and Tindal continue to employ hundreds of certified riggers for high-risk operations.
South Australia
Wind farm assembly and refinery work in Port Augusta, Whyalla, and Olympic Dam require ongoing rigging support.
New South Wales and Victoria
Construction of solar plants, bridges, and manufacturing facilities around Broken Hill, Geelong, and Wagga Wagga offers DIDO and FIFO rotations.
4. Required Qualifications and Licences
Every Rigger and Dogman working in Australia must hold nationally recognised High-Risk Work Licences issued by WorkSafe or the relevant state authority.
Mandatory Certifications
- White Card (CPCWHS1001)
- Dogging Licence (DG)
- Rigging Licences:
- Basic Rigging (RB)
- Intermediate Rigging (RI)
- Advanced Rigging (RA)
- Working at Heights (RIIWHS204E)
- Confined Space Entry (RIIWHS202E)
- Manual Handling and First Aid (HLTAID011)
- Construction Induction and Site Medical Clearance
Additional Recommended Licences
- High-Risk Crane Tickets (CN, C2, C6, C1, or C0)
- Forklift Licence (LF)
- Elevated Work Platform Licence (WP)
- Vehicle Loading Crane Licence (CV)
- Traffic Management and Spotter Tickets (if required)
Most Riggers progress through DG → RB → RI → RA as they gain site experience and take on more complex lifts.
5. Rigging Gear, Tools, and Technology Used on Site
Modern rigging combines traditional skill with advanced technology to increase precision and safety.
Core Gear and Equipment
- Chain blocks, lever hoists, and wire rope pullers (Yale, Kito, CM Lodestar)
- Shackles, hooks, and lifting beams (Crosby, Gunnebo)
- Spreader bars, sheave blocks, and beam clamps
- Slings (synthetic, chain, and wire rope) inspected before every lift
- Hydraulic jacking systems (Enerpac)
- Load monitoring systems (Straightpoint, Loadlink Plus)
Digital and Safety Tools
- Digital load cells and wireless shackles for real-time weight feedback
- Remote-control winches for complex mechanical rigging
- Crane camera and anti-collision systems integrated with Trimble sensors
- Software for lift planning and 3D simulation (AutoCAD, CraniMAX, KranXpert)
Technology is transforming the trade, but skill, teamwork, and communication remain the core of safe lifting.
6. Pay Rates, Rosters, and Benefits
Rigging professionals are well compensated due to the physical intensity and technical risk of their work.
| Role | Hourly Rate | Annual Range | Typical Roster |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dogman / Entry-Level Rigger | $45–$60 | $100,000–$130,000 | 2:1 |
| Basic Rigger (RB) | $60–$75 | $130,000–$155,000 | 2:1 |
| Intermediate Rigger (RI) | $75–$90 | $155,000–$175,000 | 2:1 or 3:1 |
| Advanced Rigger (RA) | $90–$110 | $175,000–$200,000 | 2:1 |
| Lift Supervisor / Leading Hand | $110–$125 | $200,000–$230,000 | 2:1 or 4:2 |
Most FIFO packages include flights, meals, uniforms, and accommodation. Additional overtime and shutdown bonuses can significantly increase total earnings.
7. A Typical Day for a FIFO Rigger or Dogman
Morning (5:30–7:00am):
Pre-start safety meeting with crane crews, review lift plans, and inspect slings, hooks, and rigging gear.
Midday (9:00–2:00pm):
Guide crane operations, align loads, and signal operators during critical lifts. Perform tandem lifts or large structure positioning under supervision.
Afternoon (3:00–5:30pm):
Inspect and store rigging gear, update lift logs, and prepare for the next day’s schedule. Conduct toolbox meetings and discuss any safety issues.
Evening:
Relax at camp, complete site paperwork, and prepare for the next shift or changeover.
Every day requires focus, precision, and communication under intense time and safety pressure.
8. Leading Employers and Contractors Hiring in 2026
Mining and Energy Projects
- BHP, Rio Tinto, FMG, Roy Hill, Santos, INPEX, Chevron, Woodside, South32
Construction and Engineering Contractors
- CPB Contractors, Monadelphous, Thiess, Downer, John Holland, Laing O’Rourke
Specialist Lifting and Rigging Companies
- Boom Logistics, MAX Cranes, Universal Cranes, Marr Contracting, General Crane Services
Renewables and Infrastructure
- Vestas, Neoen, AGL, GE Renewables, Fulton Hogan, Ventia
Recruitment and Labour Hire
- WorkPac, CoreStaff, Chandler Macleod, Programmed, Stellar Recruitment
Riggers with advanced tickets or dual Dogging/Crane qualifications are particularly valuable for shutdown, LNG, and wind turbine projects.
9. Career Progression and Pathways
Rigging is one of the few trades that offers both technical and leadership growth without leaving the tools.
Stage 1 (Years 1–2): Dogman or Basic Rigger assisting on single-crane lifts.
Stage 2 (Years 3–5): Intermediate Rigger performing structural and mechanical rigging.
Stage 3 (Years 6–8): Advanced Rigger handling multi-crane or heavy-lift operations.
Stage 4 (Years 9–12): Lift Supervisor or Rigging Coordinator managing site teams and planning.
Stage 5 (12+ Years): Crane Superintendent or Heavy Lift Manager overseeing multiple sites or national operations.
Additional Study Options
- Diploma of Leadership and Management (BSB50420)
- Advanced Lift Planning and 3D Simulation Courses
- ICAM Investigation Certification (for safety roles)
- Project Management Qualifications (for coordination roles)
Ambitious riggers can progress to crane operations, WHS supervision, or lifting engineering roles with further certification.
10. Work Conditions, Challenges, and Rewards
Advantages
- High earning potential and steady demand.
- Work on some of the world’s biggest infrastructure projects.
- Opportunities to upskill into crane operation or supervision.
- Strong team culture and camaraderie.
Challenges
- Physically demanding and often performed in extreme heat or wind.
- Requires long rosters away from home.
- High-risk environment demanding full concentration.
- Constant need for ticket renewals and competency verification.
Success in this trade depends on safety awareness, teamwork, and pride in precision — every lift, every signal, every bolt counts.
11. How to Start a FIFO Rigging Career
- Obtain your White Card (CPCWHS1001).
- Enrol in a Dogging Licence (DG) course through an accredited RTO.
- Gain site experience as a Dogman and assist crane operators.
- Progress through Basic (RB), Intermediate (RI), and Advanced (RA) rigging licences.
- Complete Working at Heights and Confined Space Entry certifications.
- Apply for FIFO rigging roles with contractors or crane companies.
- Continue training in Lift Planning, Supervision, and Safety Leadership to move into management.
With consistent site performance, riggers can reach advanced status and earn over $180,000 within five to seven years.
12. Conclusion: The Backbone of Every Lift in Australia
No tower, refinery, or wind turbine in Australia stands without the hands of a skilled Rigger or Dogman. Their work defines precision, teamwork, and courage under pressure.
In 2026, with new mega-projects breaking ground from the Pilbara to the Bowen Basin, the rigging profession offers some of the best-paid, most respected, and most essential FIFO careers in the nation. For those who thrive on teamwork, technical challenge, and the satisfaction of lifting the impossible — this is the trade that truly moves Australia.
Next Steps:
- Dogging and Rigging Licence Training (DG, RB, RI, RA)
- Lift Planning and Crane Operations Pathway
- Working Safely at Heights and Confined Space Courses
- Leadership in Lifting and Heavy Industry Programs
