Rigging Engineer

Job Summary

The Rigging Engineer is responsible for planning, coordinating, and supervising all rigging, lifting, and material handling activities on Oil & Gas construction projects. The role ensures that all lifting operations are executed safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with approved lifting plans, project specifications, international standards, and HSE requirements. The position works closely with construction teams, crane operators, HSE, clients, and third-party inspectors to support timely and safe project execution.

Key Responsibilities

Rigging & Lifting Engineering

• Plan, engineer, and supervise rigging, lifting, and transportation activities for steel structures, vessels, equipment, and piping spools.
• Prepare and review detailed lifting plans, lifting studies, risk assessments, and method statements.
• Select appropriate cranes, lifting equipment, and rigging accessories based on load weight, radius, ground bearing capacity, and site conditions.
• Interpret load charts, rigging drawings, and lifting schematics to ensure safe lifting operations.
• Ensure correct use of lifting gears including slings, shackles, chain blocks, wire ropes, pulleys, winches, and spreader beams.

Site Supervision & Coordination

• Supervise rigging crews and coordinate daily lifting activities on site.
• Coordinate with Construction, Planning, HSE, and QA/QC teams to align lifting operations with project schedules.
• Liaise with crane operators, transport teams, and subcontractors for smooth execution of lifting and erection activities.
• Ensure Permit to Work (PTW) requirements are obtained and complied with for all lifting operations.

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure strict compliance with project HSE policies, lifting procedures, and Oil & Gas safety standards.
• Enforce safe lifting practices, correct hand signals, and communication protocols.
• Inspect lifting equipment and accessories prior to use and ensure valid third-party certifications and color coding.
• Identify unsafe conditions and stop lifting operations when safety is compromised.

Equipment Control & Certification

• Maintain registers for cranes, lifting tools, and rigging accessories including inspection and certification status.
• Coordinate third-party inspections and ensure timely re-certification of lifting equipment.
• Ensure defective or non-compliant equipment is removed from service immediately.

Reporting & Documentation

• Prepare daily, weekly, and monthly reports on rigging and lifting activities.
• Maintain lifting records, inspection checklists, permits, and compliance documentation.
• Report progress, constraints, and safety observations to project management.

Required Qualifications & Competencies

• Bachelor's Degree or Diploma in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline
• 8–15 years of experience in rigging and lifting operations within Oil & Gas, refinery, or petrochemical construction projects
• Proven experience preparing lifting plans, lifting studies, and rigging calculations
• Strong knowledge of cranes, lifting accessories, safe working loads, and load charts
• Familiarity with international lifting and rigging standards and best practices
• Experience supervising rigging crews and coordinating heavy lift operations
• Possession of relevant rigging/lifting competency certifications from recognized third-party organizations
• Strong understanding of Oil & Gas HSE requirements and permit systems
• Ability to read and interpret drawings, method statements, and technical documents
• Strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills
• Proficient in preparing reports and documentation; good command of English