Heavy Lift Operator (High-Capacity Cranes / Specialist Equipment)

Position Summary

The Heavy Lift Operator is responsible for operating ultra-heavy lifting machinery—such as Mobile Harbor Cranes (MHCs), high-capacity Crawler Cranes, Rubber Tyred Gantry (RTG) Cranes, or specialist heavy-duty overhead gantries. This role involves managing critical, high-risk lifts, including out-of-gauge (OOG) cargo, project breakbulk, and heavy industrial machinery, where millimeter precision and flawless adherence to load charts are non-negotiable.

Essential Responsibilities and Duties

• Safely and efficiently operate heavy lifting equipment to mobilize, position, load, and discharge heavy project cargo and out-of-gauge containers.
• Analyze, understand, and strictly follow engineered lifting plans, rigging matrices, and equipment load charts before executing any lift.
• Work in lockstep with certified Signalers, Banksmen, and Riggers to ensure clear communication, proper weight distribution, and secure radius clearances.
• Conduct rigorous pre-operational checks on the machinery’s structural, hydraulic, mechanical, and electrical systems, including testing the Automatic Safe Load Indicator (ASLI).
• Verify ground stability, outrigger pad placements, and cribbing layouts alongside the rigging crew to prevent equipment tilting or structural failure.
• Maintain complete compliance with international lifting standards (e.g., ASME, BS 7121) and local port Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) policies.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) or technical equivalent.
• Minimum of 5–7 years of active experience operating cranes or lifting equipment exceeding 100-ton capacity in a busy port, marine terminal, or heavy construction site.
• Valid NTSA Special Stamp (Class G) or equivalent heavy industrial equipment authorization.
• Valid driving license of class B, C, E with a Forklift endorsement.
• Valid, independent Heavy Lift Operator Certification from an accredited international body or recognized maritime/industrial institution.
• Direct experience handling heavy-lift operations within Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) installations or handling specialized project cargo clearance is a distinct advantage.
• Mastery of electronic load management systems, depth perception, and mechanical troubleshooting; full physical and medical fitness clearance.

How to Apply: Send your CV and cover letter only to careers@oildrop.co.ke Applications reviewed on a rolling basis, early applications encouraged.

Equal Employment Opportunity: Oildrop Africa Limited is an equal opportunity employer. All positions require deep commitment to a zero-harm safety culture.

Important Notice: Oildrop Africa Limited (OAL) never charges candidates any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. If you are asked to make a payment for a job opportunity claiming to be from OAL, it is a scam.

*Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted*