How to Be Circus Aerial Rigging Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Apr 17, 2022 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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A Circus Aerial Rigging Technician is responsible for the installation, maintenance, and dismantling of the aerial rigging equipment used in a circus performance. This requires a great deal of skill and attention to detail, as the safety of the performers and audience is at stake. The technician must be familiar with a variety of materials, such as wire cables, ropes, and clamps, as well as techniques for safely suspending and securing equipment in the air.

The technician must also be knowledgeable about rigging safety standards, and be able to recognize potential hazards and take appropriate action to protect the performers and audience. This is all the more important because many aerial acts involve performers performing complex and dangerous stunts. If a technician fails in their duties, it can lead to serious injury or even death, not only for the performers but also for the audience.

Steps How to Become

Pursue a degree in circus arts, theater arts, rigging, or a related field. Many schools offer certificates and degrees in circus arts, stagecraft, and rigging, which can be beneficial for those interested in becoming an aerial rigging technician.
Take classes in rigging, acrobatics, and aerial performance techniques. While some circus schools may offer specialized classes in rigging, others may require you to take more general classes in acrobatics and aerial performance techniques.
Gain experience as a rigger. Many rigging technicians work as freelance riggers, so it is important to gain experience in this field. Some circus schools or performance companies may offer apprenticeships or internships that allow students to gain hands-on experience in rigging.
Become certified in rigging and safety practices. The Professional Rigger Certification Program (PRCP) is a course that teaches riggers how to safely install, inspect, maintain, and remove aerial rigging equipment. This certification is required for many rigging jobs, so it is important to become certified as soon as possible.
Network with other aerial rigging technicians. Networking with other professionals in the field can help you find job opportunities and stay up to date on the latest techniques and safety practices. Joining professional organizations such as the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) can also be beneficial.

Circus aerial rigging technicians must be proficient in the safe and reliable installation of circus apparatus. To ensure efficient rigging, technicians must be familiar with the appropriate regulations, standards and guidelines for the equipment they are installing. The process of rigging involves multiple steps, including the selection of proper rigging hardware, the assembly of the apparatus, the connection of the hardware components, the testing of its safety, and finally the inspection of the equipment.

When each step is properly followed, an aerial rigging technician can guarantee the safety and reliability of their work. Not only does following these steps ensure the safety of the performers and audience members, it also provides a smooth, uninterrupted show.

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Job Description

Set-up and dismantle aerial rigging equipment, such as pulleys, carabiners, slings, ropes, harnesses and other related equipment.
Perform inspections and maintain aerial rigging equipment to ensure safety and optimal performance.
Coordinate with other technicians to ensure proper rigging techniques are used when setting up the system.
Monitor the rigging system during rehearsals and performances to ensure that the system is functioning properly.
Troubleshoot and resolve any technical issues with the rigging system.
Provide instruction and guidance to circus performers on proper rigging techniques and safety protocols.
Assist with the loading and unloading of equipment from the venue.
Ensure compliance with local safety regulations and building codes.
Maintain accurate records of equipment inventory and usage.
Assist with the maintenance and repair of rigging equipment.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of rigging principles and safety protocols
Ability to construct and maintain aerial rigging
Knowledge of materials and hardware used in rigging
Ability to inspect and troubleshoot rigging systems
Knowledge of structural engineering principles
Knowledge of weight limits and load calculations
Ability to lift and move heavy equipment
Knowledge of electrical wiring and circuitry
Knowledge of appropriate knot-tying techniques
Ability to read and interpret blueprints and diagrams
Good communication and problem-solving skills
Strong attention to detail
Ability to work at heights

Having the right skills is essential for a Circus Aerial Rigging Technician to be successful in their profession. One of the most important skills they must have is attention to detail. A Circus Aerial Rigging Technician must be able to understand and follow safety protocols and instructions, ensuring that all rigging is completed correctly and safely.

They must also be skilled in problem solving and troubleshooting, as any mistakes or errors could lead to dangerous situations. strong communication and organizational skills are key for a Circus Aerial Rigging Technician to make sure that all necessary equipment and materials are available, and that tasks are completed in a timely fashion. Lastly, good physical strength and endurance are necessary, as the job often requires lifting heavy objects and working in difficult positions for extended periods of time.

All these skills combined make a successful Circus Aerial Rigging Technician.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working with aerial rigging?
How do you ensure the safety of performers and audiences when rigging aerial equipment?
Are you comfortable working at heights?
What qualifications do you have in regards to aerial rigging?
What strategies do you use to efficiently prepare for a show?
Describe a time when you had to deal with a difficult situation involving aerial rigging.
Are you comfortable with being in charge of a team of technicians?
How do you handle large scale, complex projects with multiple components?
What do you consider the most important safety protocols when dealing with aerial rigging?
How do you stay organized in a fast-paced circus environment?

Common Tools in Industry

Rigging Blocks. Small pulleys used to redirect force, often suspending aerialists in the air. (eg: A 3-sheave rigging block is used to suspend an aerialist in the air safely. )
Safety Belay Lines. Ropes used to secure aerialists during performances. (eg: A safety belay line is used to catch an aerialist if they should fall during a performance. )
Ratchets. A mechanical device used to adjust tension in rope. (eg: A ratchet is used to adjust the tension of a safety belay line. )
Swivel Hooks. Hooks used to connect the rigging system to the aerialist and aerial apparatus. (eg: A swivel hook is used to connect a trapeze bar to the rigging system. )
Rigging Plates. Heavy-duty plates used to attach rigging blocks and swivel hooks to structures. (eg: A rigging plate is used to attach a swivel hook to a truss or wall. )
Pulley Systems. Complex systems of pulleys and ropes designed to lift and suspend aerial apparatus. (eg: A pulley system is used to lift and suspend a static trapeze from the ceiling. )

Professional Organizations to Know

International Federation of Riggers and Climbers (IFRC)
Professional Rope Access Trade Association (PRATA)
Rigging Industry Training Council (RITC)
European Rope Access Trade Association (ERATA)
The Aerial Rigging Research & Education Foundation (ARREF)
Association of Rigging and Staging Professionals (ARSP)
The Rigging Safety Resource Network (RSRN)
Theatre Safety Advisory Group (TSAG)
Society of Professional Rope Access Technicians (SPRAT)
The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)

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Common Important Terms

Rigging. A system of ropes, wires, and hardware used to support and secure objects in the air, usually for circus acts.
Aerial Equipment. Specialized hardware used for aerial rigging, such as pulleys, carabiners, swivels, and clips.
Load Testing. Testing the limits of a rigging system by suspending weights or other objects from it to ensure that it meets safety requirements.
Anchorage Points. Secure points in a structure that are used to attach rigging equipment to and support aerial acts.
Types of Aerial Rigging. Static, dynamic, and free-standing aerial rigging systems.
Knots. A variety of knots used to secure rigging equipment, such as figure-eights and bowlines.
Safety Practices. Techniques used to ensure performers safety while using aerial rigging, such as fall-arrest systems and safety nets.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Circus Aerial Rigging Technician?

A Circus Aerial Rigging Technician is a professional who is responsible for the setup, maintenance, and breakdown of aerial equipment used in circus performances. This includes rigging, operating and adjusting aerial apparatus such as trapezes, silks, lyra, hammock and more.

What qualifications are needed to become a Circus Aerial Rigging Technician?

To become a Circus Aerial Rigging Technician, individuals must have a strong knowledge of physics, structural engineering, and aerial rigging techniques and safety procedures. Knowledge of proper use of pulley systems, knots and splices is also required.

What skills are important for a Circus Aerial Rigging Technician?

To be successful as a Circus Aerial Rigging Technician, individuals must be able to think quickly and accurately in order to safely secure and adjust the aerial apparatus. They must also have excellent problem solving skills and an attention to detail to ensure that the equipment is safe and secure for use.

What type of work environment does a Circus Aerial Rigging Technician work in?

Circus Aerial Rigging Technicians usually work in an indoor or outdoor performance environment. They must be able to work in a variety of weather conditions and have the physical stamina to lift and carry heavy equipment.

What tools and equipment do Circus Aerial Rigging Technicians use?

Circus Aerial Rigging Technicians use a variety of tools and equipment including winches, pulleys, rope, rigging plates, aerial straps, and other specialized rigging equipment. They also use personal protective equipment, such as harnesses, helmets and gloves.

Web Resources

Circus Involvement | The FSU Flying High Circus - Florida State circus.fsu.edu
Soaring with the Circus: Depression-era Aerial Acts Dirt Poor dirtpoor.as.ua.edu
Circus Arts - Featured Circus Disciplines | Smithsonian festival.si.edu