Rigger/Slinger

Job Title: Shipyard Rigger / Slinger

Location: Middlesbrough, UK

Shipyard / Marine Engineering Facility

Reports To: Rigging Supervisor / Dock Master / Operations Manager

Job Purpose The Shipyard Rigger / Slinger is responsible for safely preparing, rigging, slinging, and moving heavy loads within the shipyard environment. This includes supporting lifting operations using cranes, hoists, and other mechanical lifting equipment while ensuring full compliance with health, safety, and lifting regulations.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare, rig, sling, and guide loads for lifting using overhead cranes, mobile cranes, gantries, and hoists
• Select appropriate lifting gear (slings, shackles, chains, spreader beams) based on load weight, shape, and centre of gravity
• Inspect lifting equipment before use and report any defects or damage immediately
• Attach and detach loads safely, ensuring correct balance and stability
• Communicate clearly with crane operators using standard hand signals or radio communication
• Assist in positioning loads accurately during lifting, moving, and installation operations
• Follow method statements, lifting plans, and risk assessments at all times
• Maintain safe working practices in confined spaces, at heights, and around live production areas
• Support vessel construction, repair, refit, or dismantling activities as required
• Maintain good housekeeping standards in work areas
• Comply with all site health, safety, environmental, and quality procedures

Skills and Competencies

• Strong understanding of lifting operations and rigging techniques
• Ability to read and follow lifting plans and technical drawings
• Good spatial awareness and problem-solving skills
• Clear communication and teamwork skills
• High level of safety awareness and attention to detail
• Physically fit and capable of working in demanding shipyard conditions

Qualifications and Experience

• Certified Slinger/Signaller qualification (e.g. CPCS, NPORS, or equivalent)
• Proven experience as a rigger/slinger in a shipyard, marine, construction, or heavy engineering environment
• Knowledge of LOLER, PUWER, and general lifting safety regulations
• IPAF or Working at Height certification (desirable)
• Confined Space certification (desirable)

Working Conditions

• Outdoor and indoor shipyard environments
• Work at height, in confined spaces, and around heavy machinery
• Manual handling of heavy lifting equipment
• Shift work, overtime, and weekend work may be required

Health & Safety Responsibilities

• Stop work if any lifting operation is deemed unsafe
• Use PPE correctly at all times
• Report near misses, incidents, or unsafe conditions promptly