Rigging/Lifting Manager

AST SpaceMobile and our global partners are building the first and only space-based cellular broadband network to be accessible by standard smartphones. Called SpaceMobile, this ultra-powerful network is being designed to provide connectivity at 4G/5G speeds everywhere on the planet – on land, at sea and in flight.

Position Overview

The Rigging/Lifting Manager is responsible for overseeing all critical rigging and lifting operations within the facility. This role ensures safe, precise, and compliant movement of highly sensitive equipment while managing three shift supervisors and supporting cross-functional production groups. The manager will establish rigging standards, lead training programs, ensure compliance with safety regulations, and support continuous improvement in lifting activities across all shifts.

Key Responsibilities

Rigging & Lifting Operations Management

• Oversee all rigging and lifting activities to ensure safe and controlled movement of sensitive equipment.

• Establish, maintain, and enforce standard operating procedures for rigging and lifting.

• Review and approve lift plans, equipment setups, and safety controls before all critical lifts.

• Ensure full compliance with OSHA, NCCCO, ASME, and internal safety standards.

Leadership & Supervision

• Manage and provide direction to three Rigging Supervisors across all shifts.

• Conduct coaching, mentoring, and performance evaluations.

• Coordinate workload and manpower planning to meet production demands.

Training & Competency Development

• Conduct on-site training for safe rigging practices, lifting techniques, and proper equipment use.

• Maintain up-to-date certification and competency records.

• Implement continuous improvement initiatives to strengthen rigging capabilities.

Equipment & Process Oversight

• Ensure inspection, maintenance, and operational readiness of all rigging and lifting equipment.

• Identify equipment needs and recommend upgrades or replacements.

• Develop and execute preventive maintenance schedules.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with production, maintenance, engineering, and quality teams to support operational needs.

• Communicate lift schedules, risks, and resource requirements effectively.

• Participate in operations meetings and planning sessions.

Safety & Compliance

• Lead and document incident investigations related to rigging and lifting operations.

• Enforce safety protocols, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) and critical lift procedures.

• Maintain accurate documentation for internal and external audits.

Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or GED required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree preferred.

• Formal rigging training highly preferred.

Experience

• 5–7 years of rigging and lifting experience.

• Supervisory or management experience required.

• Hands-on experience conducting critical lifts involving sensitive or high-value equipment.

Certifications

• NCCCO Certified Rigger (CR) preferred.

• Signalperson or Lift Director certifications a plus.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a manufacturing, industrial, or aerospace production environment.

• Familiarity with crane operations, advanced rigging methods, and heavy-lift planning.

Soft Skills

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• Proven leadership and team-development capabilities.

• Ability to read and interpret drawings, lift plans, schematics, and risk assessments.

• Exceptional situational awareness with a commitment to safety and precision.

Technology Stack

• MS Office Suite

• Ability to read and interpret digital drawings, 3D models, and lift-planning software

• Experience with maintenance tracking or asset-management tools (preferred)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in both office and shop-floor environments.

• Frequent walking, standing, and lifting up to 50 lbs.

• Exposure to noise, temperature variations, and active production areas.

• Ability to operate or work near cranes, hoists, and heavy-lifting equipment.

This job description may not be inclusive of all duties and responsibilities. Additional tasks may be assigned as needed based on business demands.

AST SpaceMobile is an Equal Opportunity, at will Employer; employment is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.