Job Scope

The Hydra Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of a hydraulic/mobile crane for lifting, loading, unloading, moving and positioning equipment, materials and other approved loads. The operator must ensure that all lifting activities are carried out within the crane’s rated capacity and in accordance with approved lifting procedures and UNO Energies’ safety standards.

Job Description

• Operate the Hydra safely and efficiently for lifting, loading, unloading and positioning of materials and equipment.
• Conduct a thorough pre-start inspection of the Hydra before each shift.
• Inspect the boom, hook, wire ropes, hydraulic systems, tyres, brakes, outriggers, controls and safety devices before operation.
• Confirm that the crane is positioned on suitable and stable ground before commencing lifting operations.
• Correctly deploy and secure outriggers/stabilisers according to requirements and the applicable load chart.
• Check the weight of the load and ensure it is within the crane’s rated lifting capacity.
• Read and correctly interpret crane load charts, including load capacity, boom length, operating radius and outrigger configuration.
• Follow approved lifting plans and instructions from the Site Supervisor or Lifting Supervisor.
• Work closely with riggers, banksmen/signalmen and other personnel involved in lifting operations.
• Follow approved hand signals and communication procedures during lifting operations.
• Safely lift, move, slew and position loads as instructed.
• Ensure loads are properly secured and balanced before lifting.
• Maintain a safe operating distance from personnel, buildings, power lines, vehicles and other hazards.
• Never exceed the crane’s rated capacity or operate outside its approved operating limits.
• Monitor the crane during operation and immediately report any mechanical fault, alarm, damage or unsafe condition.
• Participate in routine inspection, cleaning, lubrication and basic maintenance of the equipment.
• Ensure the crane is properly parked, secured and left in a safe condition after operation.
• Complete daily crane inspection sheets, equipment logbooks and other required documentation.
• Comply with UNO Energies’ health, safety, environmental and operational procedures.
• Use all required PPE and ensure safe working practices are maintained throughout lifting operations.
• Stop the lifting operation where conditions become unsafe or where the load, equipment or lifting arrangement does not meet safety requirements.

Perform any other related duties as may be assigned by the supervisor.

Qualifications and Experience

• Full Grade 12 School Certificate.
• Must have a valid Driver’s Licence.
• Must have a valid Hydra/Mobile Crane Operator’s Permit or recognised crane operating certification.
• Minimum of 1 - 2 years’ proven experience operating hydraulic/mobile cranes.
• Demonstrated experience in lifting, loading, unloading and positioning heavy materials or equipment.
• Ability to read and understand crane load charts.
• Knowledge of crane setup, outriggers, lifting capacity and safe operating procedures.
• Knowledge of basic crane inspection and maintenance.
• Good understanding of occupational health and safety requirements.
• Ability to communicate effectively with riggers, banksmen/signalmen and supervisors.
• Must be physically fit, responsible and safety-conscious.
• Must be mature, sober and alert while operating the crane.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and performance based incentives.
• Opportunities for career advancement and professional development.
• UNO Energies Zambia is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

• Operate the Hydra safely and efficiently for lifting, loading, unloading and positioning of materials and equipment.
• Conduct a thorough pre-start inspection of the Hydra before each shift.
• Inspect the boom, hook, wire ropes, hydraulic systems, tyres, brakes, outriggers, controls and safety devices before operation.
• Confirm that the crane is positioned on suitable and stable ground before commencing lifting operations.
• Correctly deploy and secure outriggers/stabilisers according to requirements and the applicable load chart.
• Check the weight of the load and ensure it is within the crane’s rated lifting capacity.
• Read and correctly interpret crane load charts, including load capacity, boom length, operating radius and outrigger configuration.
• Follow approved lifting plans and instructions from the Site Supervisor or Lifting Supervisor.
• Work closely with riggers, banksmen/signalmen and other personnel involved in lifting operations.
• Follow approved hand signals and communication procedures during lifting operations.
• Safely lift, move, slew and position loads as instructed.
• Ensure loads are properly secured and balanced before lifting.
• Maintain a safe operating distance from personnel, buildings, power lines, vehicles and other hazards.
• Never exceed the crane’s rated capacity or operate outside its approved operating limits.
• Monitor the crane during operation and immediately report any mechanical fault, alarm, damage or unsafe condition.
• Participate in routine inspection, cleaning, lubrication and basic maintenance of the equipment.
• Ensure the crane is properly parked, secured and left in a safe condition after operation.
• Complete daily crane inspection sheets, equipment logbooks and other required documentation.
• Comply with UNO Energies’ health, safety, environmental and operational procedures.
• Use all required PPE and ensure safe working practices are maintained throughout lifting operations.
• Stop the lifting operation where conditions become unsafe or where the load, equipment or lifting arrangement does not meet safety requirements.
• Perform any other related duties as may be assigned by the supervisor.

• Ability to read and understand crane load charts.
• Knowledge of crane setup, outriggers, lifting capacity and safe operating procedures.
• Knowledge of basic crane inspection and maintenance.
• Good understanding of occupational health and safety requirements.
• Ability to communicate effectively with riggers, banksmen/signalmen and supervisors.
• Physically fit, responsible and safety-conscious.
• Mature, sober and alert while operating the crane.

• Full Grade 12 School Certificate.
• Valid Driver’s Licence.
• Valid Hydra/Mobile Crane Operator’s Permit or recognised crane operating certification.