Hydra Operator

Department: Maintenance / Projects / Logistics Operations
Reports To: Lifting Operations Supervisor / Mechanical Supervisor

Job Overview

• The Hydra Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of hydra cranes and mobile lifting equipment for lifting, loading, unloading, positioning, and transporting materials, machinery, equipment, and plant components within the facility. 
• This role ensures that all lifting activities are conducted in accordance with approved lifting plans, manufacturer guidelines, operational procedures, and Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) requirements.
• The successful candidate must possess strong operational skills, knowledge of lifting operations, equipment inspection techniques, and the ability to execute lifting activities safely in an industrial manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate Hydra Crane Equipment: Safely operate hydra cranes and related lifting equipment for lifting, transporting, positioning, and relocating materials, machinery, and equipment across plant locations.
• Conduct Pre-Operational Equipment Inspection: Perform daily inspection and functional checks of the crane, including hydraulic systems, boom assemblies, brakes, tires, wire ropes, hooks, safety devices, and controls before commencement of operations.
• Execute Lifting and Material Handling Activities: Carry out lifting operations in accordance with approved lifting plans, load charts, operating procedures, and supervisor instructions.
• Ensure Load Stability and Safe Positioning: Assess load weight, lifting points, lifting radius, and ground conditions to ensure safe handling, movement, and placement of loads.
• Coordinate with Rigging and Lifting Teams: Communicate effectively with riggers, banksmen, supervisors, and other personnel to ensure safe execution of lifting activities and adherence to approved signals.
• Report Equipment Defects and Operational Issues: Identify, document, and promptly report equipment malfunctions, abnormal operating conditions, or safety concerns requiring maintenance intervention.
• Maintain Safety and HSE Compliance: Strictly comply with Permit-to-Work (PTW) requirements, lifting procedures, traffic management rules, PPE requirements, and all HSE policies during crane operations.

Basic Technical Competencies and Skills:
The ideal candidate should possess:

• Proficiency in operating hydra cranes and mobile lifting equipment.
• Knowledge of load charts, lifting capacities, and crane operating limits.
• Understanding of rigging principles and safe lifting practices.
• Ability to conduct pre-use inspections and basic equipment checks.
• Knowledge of hydraulic systems and crane operational controls.
• Understanding of lifting plans and risk assessment procedures.
• Ability to interpret hand signals and communicate effectively with riggers and banksmen.
• Knowledge of equipment stability, load distribution, and ground condition assessment.
• Understanding of Permit-to-Work (PTW) and HSE requirements.
• Basic troubleshooting and fault identification skills.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities.
• Strong safety awareness and attention to detail.

Qualification and Experience
Educational Qualification:

• National Diploma (ND) in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Industrial Maintenance, or a related technical discipline;

OR

• Trade Test Grade I, II, and III in Mechanical Trades, Heavy Equipment Operation, Plant Maintenance, or a related field.

Professional Certification (Added Advantage):

• Valid Hydra Crane Operator Certificate.
• Mobile Crane Operator Certification.
• Banksman/Rigger Awareness Certification.
• HSE Level 1, 2, or 3 Certification.
• Defensive Driving or Heavy Equipment Operation Training.

Experience:

• Minimum of three (3) years' industrial experience operating hydra cranes, mobile cranes, or heavy lifting equipment in manufacturing, fertilizer, petrochemical, oil and gas, construction, cement, power generation, or related industrial environments.
• Proven experience in lifting operations, equipment movement, shutdown activities, maintenance support, and project execution.

Desired Attributes:

• Strong commitment to safety and operational excellence.
• Excellent concentration and situational awareness.
• High level of responsibility and accountability.
• Ability to work under pressure and in dynamic operational environments.
• Good problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Strong teamwork and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to work shifts, overtime, weekends, and shutdown periods when required.