Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Jump Rigger
💰 $50,000 - $80,000
MilitaryAviationParachutingSafety and Equipment
🎯 Role Definition
A Jump Rigger is a highly trained professional responsible for inspecting, packing, maintaining, and repairing parachutes and related airborne equipment. This role ensures the safety and reliability of parachuting operations by preparing personnel and cargo parachutes for military or civilian airborne missions while maintaining strict compliance with safety standards and technical regulations.
📈 Career Progression
Typical Career Path
Entry Point From:
- Parachute Technician
- Military Airborne Specialist
- Aviation Equipment Technician
Advancement To:
- Senior Jump Rigger
- Airborne Operations Supervisor
- Parachute Systems Manager
Lateral Moves:
- Safety Officer
- Aviation Maintenance Technician
Core Responsibilities
Primary Functions
- Inspect, pack, and maintain personnel and cargo parachutes to meet operational and safety standards.
- Repair, modify, and replace parachute components, including canopies, lines, harnesses, and deployment systems.
- Conduct rigorous pre- and post-jump inspections to ensure equipment reliability.
- Maintain detailed records of parachute maintenance, packing dates, inspections, and repairs.
- Test parachute equipment and ensure proper functionality before each airborne operation.
- Train and certify personnel in proper parachute use, packing procedures, and emergency protocols.
- Manage and organize parachute storage, inventory, and issue schedules for airborne operations.
- Collaborate with Jump Masters and airborne personnel to plan equipment requirements for missions.
- Identify potential equipment hazards and implement corrective measures promptly.
- Maintain compliance with military regulations, safety standards, and manufacturer guidelines.
- Prepare cargo and heavy-load parachutes for transport, including rigging and weight distribution.
- Ensure all tools and workspaces are clean, organized, and safe for parachute preparation.
- Assist in the design and testing of new parachute systems or modifications.
- Participate in risk assessments and implement preventive maintenance measures.
- Monitor environmental conditions that may affect parachute performance during deployment.
- Conduct refresher training and drills for personnel on parachute safety and emergency procedures.
- Audit parachute logs, equipment manuals, and technical documentation for accuracy.
- Support airborne operations by coordinating equipment readiness with aircraft and mission planners.
- Provide recommendations for improvements in parachute design, packing techniques, and safety protocols.
- Stay updated on advances in parachute technology, materials, and safety standards.
Secondary Functions
- Assist in inventory audits, procurement, and supply management for parachute materials.
- Support cross-training of junior jump riggers and airborne staff.
- Participate in research and development for specialized airborne equipment.
- Contribute to the development of standard operating procedures and safety manuals.
Required Skills & Competencies
Hard Skills (Technical)
- Expert knowledge of parachute systems, packing, maintenance, and repair techniques.
- Proficiency in using rigging tools and equipment for parachute preparation.
- Ability to inspect and troubleshoot malfunctioning parachutes and related gear.
- Knowledge of military or civilian airborne operation standards.
- Competence in maintaining detailed maintenance logs and technical records.
- Understanding of load distribution, deployment mechanics, and emergency procedures.
- Familiarity with cargo parachutes, personnel parachutes, and specialized airborne systems.
- Ability to conduct safety audits and risk assessments on airborne equipment.
- Proficiency in following manufacturer guidelines and technical manuals.
- Experience training personnel in parachute usage, packing, and safety protocols.
Soft Skills
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety.
- Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
- Ability to work under pressure and meet operational deadlines.
- Effective communication and instructional skills.
- Problem-solving and analytical thinking for complex equipment issues.
Education & Experience
Educational Background
Minimum Education:
- High school diploma or equivalent; technical or military training preferred.
Preferred Education:
- Certification in parachute rigging, aviation maintenance, or related technical field.
Relevant Fields of Study:
- Aviation Technology
- Military Airborne Operations
Experience Requirements
Typical Experience Range:
- 2–5 years of experience in parachute packing, rigging, or airborne support operations.
Preferred:
- Prior experience as a certified Jump Rigger or in military/civilian airborne operations.