Lifting and positioning the critical components that build and maintain Scotland’s offshore wind farms.
OVERVIEW
Offshore Wind Crane Operators are responsible for safely lifting, moving, and positioning heavy components such as turbine blades, nacelles, tower sections, and offshore substation equipment. Working on vessels, platforms, or offshore wind turbines, this role is safety-critical and highly skilled. It suits people who enjoy precision work, operating specialist equipment, and being part of large-scale offshore construction and maintenance projects.
More details
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- Operate offshore cranes to lift and position turbine components, tools, and materials
- Follow detailed lift plans and method statements
- Communicate clearly with banksmen, riggers, and vessel crews
- Conduct pre-use equipment checks and routine maintenance
- Monitor weather, sea state, and vessel movement during lifts
- Stop operations if conditions become unsafe
- Maintain accurate lift records and safety documentation
- Support installation, commissioning, and major maintenance activities
- Location:
- Offshore installation vessels (jack-up, heavy lift, or SOV vessels)
- Offshore wind turbines and substations
- Work Pattern:
- Rotational shifts (commonly 2 weeks on / 2 weeks off).
- Rotational shifts (commonly 2 weeks on / 2 weeks off).
- Conditions:
- Working at height
- Exposure to weather and vessel motion
- High-pressure, safety critical environment
- Team Structure:
- Working closely with riggers, banksmen, vessel crews, turbine technicians, and offshore construction managers
Essential Skills
- Crane operation and load control.
- Strong safety awareness and decision-making.
- Clear communication and teamwork.
- Ability to follow lift plans and procedures.
- Situational awareness in offshore conditions.
Useful Skills
- Experience with offshore or pedestal cranes.
- Knowledge of offshore lifting regulations.
- Mechanical awareness.
- Ability to work in challenging weather conditions.
- Experience with turbine or substation installation.
- Trade and Industry Routes
- Crane operator roles in oil & gas, construction, ports or heavy engineering.
- Crane operator roles in oil & gas, construction, ports or heavy engineering.
- Offshore Transition routes:
- Experienced onshore or oil & gas crane operators transitioning into offshore wind.
- Experienced onshore or oil & gas crane operators transitioning into offshore wind.
- Employer-Led Training:
- Offshore wind installation contractors often provide turbine-specific training.
Typically Required
- Offshore Crane Operator Certification
- QWO Basic Safety Training
- Offshore Medial Certificate
- Sea Survival Certification
Desirable
- Stage 3 or 4 Offshore Crane Operator Certification
- Experience operating motion-compensated cranes
