Weighing up dogging and rigging courses and trying to figure out which direction makes sense before you spend money and time off the tools?
This guide gives you a straight answer. You’ll learn what each role actually involves, what the tickets qualify you to do, and how the pay and career progression differ. If you’re already leaning toward upskilling, you’ll leave here with a clear next step.
What does a dogman do?
A licensed dogman is responsible for attaching and directing loads during crane and hoist operations.
On site, that typically includes slinging the load, communicating with the crane operator using standard hand signals or radio, and making sure the load is moved safely and accurately from start to finish.
The work is hands-on and often fast-paced. You’re working closely with crane operators, riggers and other trades, often in live construction environments where timing and coordination matter.
When a load is in the air, communication becomes critical. The dogman acts as the link between the crane operator and the ground crew, ensuring movements are controlled and risks are managed.
The dogging licence is a single-level ticket under the High Risk Work Licence (HRWL) framework regulated by SafeWork across Australian states and territories. It qualifies you to direct crane operations and apply basic rigging techniques. It’s the foundation everything else is built on.
What does a rigger do?
A rigger builds on those lifting fundamentals but operates at a higher level of complexity and responsibility.
While a dogman focuses on directing lifts, a rigger is responsible for planning and setting up how those lifts will be carried out.
That includes:
- selecting and configuring rigging systems
- installing and positioning structural components
- preparing loads and lift setups before crane movement begins
Rigging work often involves more technical decision-making and a broader understanding of how loads behave under different conditions.
Rigging licences are structured across three levels. Basic Rigging covers standard lifts and equipment. Intermediate Rigging and Advanced Rigging each unlock a broader scope of work and typically command higher rates.
Dogman vs rigger
The difference between dogging and rigging comes down to scope, responsibility and complexity.
- A dogman focuses on calculating loads, directing lifts and controlling load movement
- A rigger focuses on planning, setup and installation of the lift/load.
In practical terms:
- Dogging is more about on ground communication and execution
- Rigging involves planning, configuration, installation and higher-risk work
Both roles are essential on site, and they often overlap depending on the project and team structure.
Which is in higher demand?
Holders of dogging and rigging courses are both in strong demand across Australian construction. Riggers tend to command higher rates and are particularly sought after on large-scale infrastructure, civil, and resources projects. That said, qualified dogmen are consistently needed across general commercial and residential construction, which means you’re employable as soon as you complete your first ticket.
Which should you get first?
If you’re starting out, you need to first get your dogging licence. Partly because it’s a requirement to hold a current dogging licence is a prerequisite for all levels of Rigging (Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced) training and licensing in Australia. And partly because it’s a fantastic foundation for any rigging (and if you choose, crane operator) work.
Progress to rigging next if:
- You have completed your dogging ticket and want to increase your earning potential
- You are working on infrastructure, resources, or large commercial projects where riggers are in consistent demand
- You are thinking beyond the immediate next step and want a career pathway with genuine upward movement
Pay and career progression
Both dogging and rigging can lead to strong earnings, particularly across construction, infrastructure and resource projects in Queensland.
Typical progression looks like:
Dogging qualifies you to direct crane operations and apply basic rigging techniques. This is your entry point into crane work.
Basic Rigging adds the ability to plan and supervise standard lifting operations, including the selection and use of mechanical lifting equipment.
Intermediate Rigging expands your scope to include structural steel erection, precast concrete, and tilt-up panels. Demand at this level is strong on commercial and civil projects. If you’re already thinking ahead, it’s worth reviewing what’s covered in an intermediate rigging course before you commit to the basic pathway.
Advanced Rigging covers mast climbing work platforms, suspended scaffolding, and complex crane and gin wheel operations. This is the highest level of the pathway and commands top-tier rates, particularly on major infrastructure and resources projects.
Earnings can vary depending on experience, project type and location, with higher rates often available on major infrastructure projects or FIFO roles.
Is it better to do both dogging and rigging courses?
Yes. Experienced tradespeople and site supervisors consistently say that holding both tickets makes you significantly more flexible on site. You can dog a lift, set up the rigging system, and supervise the whole operation. That kind of versatility matters to employers because it reduces reliance on multiple specialists and tends to translate into more consistent work and stronger negotiating power when it comes to rates.
At Ascent Training Solutions, the combined pathway is one of the most popular choices among workers who are serious about building a long-term career in crane work.
Ready to get started?
If you’re serious about moving into lifting operations on construction sites in Brisbane, the next step is choosing the right training provider.
At Ascent Training Solutions, the focus is on practical, job-ready training. With experienced trainers, real equipment, and a strong understanding of industry expectations, Ascent helps you build the confidence to step onto site and do the job properly.
Check upcoming course dates with Ascent Training Solutions or contact us directly to take the next step toward a licensed role in construction.
