Lifting Operations Specialist

Job Overview

Gulf Contracting & Landscaping (GCL) seeks a Lifting Operations Specialist to manage all lifting tasks on site, ensuring safety and compliance by developing precise lift plans, selecting fitting equipment and accessories, and confirming the competence of personnel alongside proper inspections. The specialist will guarantee that lifting tasks are executed safely, efficiently, and in line with project criteria, regulatory standards, and the company’s HSE protocols.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform detailed risk assessments and lift hazard analyses tailored specifically to each lifting operation.
• Create, review, and authorize comprehensive lift plans incorporating method statements, rigging details, load calculations, and clearly designated exclusion zones.
• Choose the correct cranes, lifting accessories, spreader beams, and rigging gear, ensuring rigging configurations such as slings are appropriate.
• Confirm the integrity, stability, and weight of loads before any lift is initiated.
• Ensure all lifting equipment is inspected, certified, and maintained, with all necessary test certificates and documentation on hand.
• Obtain and adhere to all statutory and work permits related to lifting activities.
• Verify that all involved personnel including Appointed Persons, crane operators, riggers, slingers/banksmen, and supervisors are certified, competent, and briefed accordingly.
• Ensure that supervisors or Appointed Persons are present to oversee delegated roles and that signalers/banksmen are distinctly identifiable.
• Manage and enforce restricted zones and exclusion areas, and provide suitable lighting for night-time lifts.
• Monitor lifts in real time to ensure compliance with the lift plan, and suspend operations if conditions such as wind or deviations arise.
• Address any communication, competence, or experience challenges within the crew to maintain high safety and operational standards.
• Keep precise records of lifting operations, inspections, certificates, and any incident reports.
• Lead emergency responses related to lifting incidents and conduct post-operation reviews and lessons learned sessions.
• Adhere strictly to the HSE Management System, Project HSE Plans, and related procedures.
• Take part in HSE training, meetings, inspections, and safety programs.
• Promptly report unsafe situations, incidents, or near misses.
• Contribute to achieving project and departmental HSE Key Performance Indicators via safe work methods.

Experience and Qualifications

• Minimum Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Civil Engineering, Construction, or comparable technical discipline.
• Required certifications include Appointed Person accreditation or equal, Slinger/Signaller (Banksman) certification, Crane Operator license/certification, and rigging/slinging competency credentials. LEEA certification or an equivalent qualification is advantageous.
• At least 5 to 8 years of practical experience in lifting operations, rigging, or crane supervision within construction or industrial environments, preferably within GCC countries.

Skills, Knowledge and Competencies

• Expertise in preparing lift plans, performing load computations, and selecting appropriate lifting gear.
• Strong understanding of lifting legislation, standards, and best practices including regional statutory requirements.
• Ability to interpret engineering designs, weight data, and structural limitations accurately.
• Experience handling various crane types, rigging hardware, sling techniques, and verifying load integrity.
• Skilled in producing method statements, permit-to-work documents, and lift checklists.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to effectively brief and guide multilingual site teams.
• Strong observational aptitude and decisive leadership under demanding conditions.
• Meticulous in organizing, record-keeping, and managing details.
• Problem-solving capabilities and conflict management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office; familiarity with lift planning software is a plus.