gantry crane operator

All Talent Solutions Ltd; Sittingbourne; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking a Gantry Crane Operator to join their operations team in Sittingbourne. The ideal candidate will have valid CPCS or NPORS certification and proven experience in crane operation. Responsibilities include ensuring safe lifting and moving of materials, conducting inspections, and coordinating with team members. This role offers a full-time permanent contract with rotating shifts.

Qualifications

• Valid CPCS or NPORS certification for gantry or overhead crane operation.
• Proven experience in an industrial environment.
• Strong understanding of load management.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• High attention to detail and concentration.
• Physically fit for climbing and checks.
• Flexibility for rotating shifts.

Responsibilities

• Operate gantry crane safely to manage cargo.
• Conduct pre-shift inspections of equipment.
• Coordinate with ground staff for safe operations.
• Read load charts and lifting instructions.
• Monitor load stability and crane movements.
• Maintain accurate records of operations and inspections.
• Perform routine crane maintenance.
• Assist with general site operations when needed.
• Participate in safety briefings.
• Comply with health, safety, and environmental policies.

Skills

Valid CPCS or NPORS certification

Experience operating gantry cranes

Understanding safe lifting practices

Radio/signaling communication skills

Attention to detail

Physically fit

Flexibility for rotating shifts

Job description

Job Title

Gantry Crane Operator (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 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.