gantry crane operator

Job Title

Indoor Gantry Crane Operator remote operating (CPCS / NPORS) Kemsley

Location

Sittingbourne, Kent

Working Hours / Shift Pattern

• Week 1: 04 00

• Week 2: 13 00

• Fortnightly rotating shift pattern

Contract Type

Full-time (Permanent / Contract specify according to your needs)

Role Summary

We are looking for a reliable and safety-focused Indoor Gantry Crane Operator to join our operations team The successful candidate will operate dockside or overhead gantry cranes associated with our clients load-handling infrastructure, ensuring efficient movement of raw materials, recycled fibre, and other cargo. The role demands strict adherence to health & safety procedures, clear communication with team members, and a strong commitment to operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate gantry crane equipment safely to lift, move, and place cargo (raw materials, recycled fibre, etc.) in line with daily load plans.

• Carry out pre-shift inspections of crane systems (wires, hoist, brakes) and report any defects or maintenance requirements.

• Coordinate with ground staff (banksmen, riggers) to ensure correct rigging, signaling, and safe load handling.

• Read and interpret load charts, rigging plans, and lifting instructions accurately.

• Monitor load stability, adjust lifting speed, and manage crane movement to maintain safety and efficiency.

• Maintain constant communication (radio / visual) with colleagues to coordinate operations.

• Maintain accurate records and logs of crane operations, maintenance, inspections, and any incidents.

• Perform routine crane maintenance tasks (lubrication, minor repairs) as required.

• Assist with general mill operations when needed, such as site housekeeping or support tasks.

• Participate actively in safety briefings, risk assessments, and toolbox talks.

• Comply with health, safety, and environmental policies.

Required Qualifications / Skills

• Valid CPCS or NPORS certification for gantry or overhead crane operation.

• Proven experience operating gantry cranes, ideally in an industrial or manufacturing environment.

• Strong understanding of safe lifting practices, rigging, and load management.

• Good radio / signalling communication skills and ability to work as part of a coordinated team.

• High attention to detail, spatial awareness, and concentration.

• Physically fit to climb into crane cabs, inspect equipment, and perform checks.

• Flexibility to work the given rotating shift pattern reliably.

Desirable Attributes

• Experience working in a paper mill or similar heavy-industry environment.

• Knowledge of basic crane maintenance or mechanical systems.

• Additional crane or lifting qualifications.

Health & Safety

• Work in compliance with all relevant health & safety legislation and internal

• Take part in risk assessments and use safe systems of work.

• Report unsafe conditions, near misses, or incidents immediately.