Requirements
The Lifting Operations Specialist will plan, coordinate, and control all lifting activities on site. This involves developing safe lift plans, selecting appropriate equipment, and ensuring competent personnel and inspections. The role requires a Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Civil Engineering, Construction, or equivalent, with 5-8 years of hands-on experience in lifting operations, rigging, or crane supervision on construction or industrial sites. Essential certifications include Appointed Person, Slinger/Signaller (Banksman), Crane Operator license, and rigging/slinging competency. Strong knowledge of lifting regulations, load calculations, and engineering drawings is crucial, as are excellent communication and leadership skills for directing multi-lingual crews.
Description
JOB PURPOSE: GCL is looking to hire a Lifting Operations Specialist to plan, coordinate and control all lifting activities on site by developing safe, compliant lift plans, selecting appropriate lifting equipment and accessories, and ensuring competent personnel and inspections are in place. The role ensures lifts are executed safely, efficiently and in accordance with project requirements, regulatory standards and company HSE procedures.KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES:Conduct thorough risk assessments and job-specific lift hazard analyses for all lifting operations.Prepare, review and approve detailed lift plans (including method statements, rigging details, load calculations and exclusion zones).Select cranes, lifting accessories, spreader beams and rigging gear appropriate to the lift and ensure correct sling/rigging configuration.Verify load integrity, stability and weight calculations prior to lifting.Ensure lifting equipment is inspected, certified and maintained; confirm all required test certificates and documents are available.Ensure all statutory permits and work permits for lifts are obtained and complied with.Confirm that personnel (Appointed Person, crane operators, riggers, slingers/banksmen, supervisors) are competent, certified and briefed.Ensure a competent supervisor or Appointed Person is present for delegated duties and that signallers/banksmen are clearly identifiable.Identify and manage restricted areas and exclusion zones; ensure adequate lighting for night lifts.Monitor lifts in real time, enforcing adherence to the lift plan and suspending operations if conditions (e.g., wind) change or deviations occur.Manage language, competence, and experience issues among crew to maintain safety and performance standards.Maintain accurate records of lifting activities, inspections, certificates, and incident reports.Provide guidance and lead emergency response related to lifting incidents; conduct post-lift reviews and lessons-learned.Comply with the HSE Management System, Project HSE Plans, and procedures.Participate in HSE trainings, meetings, inspections, and safety initiatives.Report unsafe conditions, incidents, or near misses promptly.Support the achievement of project/department HSE KPIs through safe work practices.EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATION:Minimum Qualification:Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Civil Engineering, Construction, or equivalent technical qualification. Certifications: Appointed Person accreditation or equivalent; Slinger/Signaller (Banksman) certification; Crane Operator license/certification; rigging/slinging competency certificates. LEEA certification or similar is an advantage.Minimum Experience: 5–8 years of hands-on experience in lifting operations, rigging, or crane supervision on construction or industrial sites (GCC experience preferred).SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE & ABILITIES:Job Specific: Proven ability to prepare lift plans, perform load calculations and select appropriate lifting gear. Strong knowledge of lifting regulations, standards and best practices (including local statutory requirements). Competence in interpreting engineering drawings, weight/mass data and structural constraints. Experience with crane types, rigging hardware, slinging techniques and load integrity verification. Proficient in producing method statements, permit-to-work documentation and lift checklists.Generic Skills: Excellent communication and briefing skills; able to direct multi-lingual site crews. Strong observational skills and decisive leadership under pressure. Attention to detail, organization and record-keeping. Good problem-solving and conflict-resolution abilities. Proficient in MS Office; familiarity with lift planning software an advantage.