Crane Operator / Dogman

Role overview

This position combines crane operation and dogman duties for structural steel work in Hastings, Hawke’s Bay. The successful person will alternate between operating Smith tower cranes and Smith crawler cranes and carrying out dogging/rigging responsibilities to support steel erection and vertical building construction. The work focuses on safe, accurate lifting, positioning, and installation of steel elements while keeping to site procedures, safety standards, and project timelines.

The crane side of the role includes operating tower cranes with capacities of up to 100 tons and crawler cranes up to 80 tons. The dogging side involves rigging loads, directing lifts, and coordinating closely with the crane operator and site crew to keep every movement controlled and compliant.

Crane operator duties

• Run tower cranes up to 100-ton capacity and crawler cranes up to 80-ton capacity in a construction setting.
• Carry out accurate lifting, hoisting, and placement of steel structural parts for multi-storey buildings.
• Read and apply lift plans, load charts, and rigging diagrams to ensure safe lifts.
• Work in coordination with riggers, signalers, and site supervisors during crane movements.
• Move and place beams, columns, trusses, and other prefabricated steel pieces.
• Assist with vertical alignment and placement during steel erection.
• Support sequencing for high-rise and multi-level construction activities.

Dogman duties

• Choose, check, and attach the right rigging equipment such as slings, chains, shackles, and lifting beams.
• Sling and direct loads safely, including structural steel items like beams, columns, and frames.
• Confirm loads are balanced, secure, and stable before any lift begins.
• Use taglines and controlled hand placement to guide loads into position.
• Act as the main signaler to crane operators using standard hand signals and/or radio communication.
• Stay in close contact with the crane operator during lifting, slewing, and placement.
• Help position and align steel components during installation.
• Support steel erection on vertical building projects, including high-rise work.
• Coordinate with steel fixers and erection crews to achieve correct placement.
• Follow all health, safety, and site procedures at all times.
• Inspect rigging gear before use and remove any damaged equipment from service.
• Ensure all lifting follows approved lift plans and load limits.
• Spot hazards and report unsafe conditions immediately.
• Take part in toolbox talks and safety briefings.
• Keep rigging equipment in good condition and stored properly.

Qualifications and requirements

• Current Crane Operator Licence for tower crane and crawler crane at Level 4.
• Demonstrated experience operating tower cranes up to 100 tons and crawler cranes up to 80 tons.
• Background in structural steel erection for vertical or high-rise construction.
• Strong working knowledge of load charts, rigging methods, and lifting techniques.
• Good understanding of construction site safety rules and compliance requirements.
• Valid Dogman or Rigging licence/tickets, including Site Safe, Heights, and EWP.
• Practical rigging experience for crane operations involving precast steel and concrete slabs.
• Prior experience in structural steel erection or general construction environments.
• Experience handling loads in the 8–9 ton range.
• Solid knowledge of lifting gear, load calculations, and rigging practices.
• Ability to use crane signals and apply safe lifting methods.
• Availability for 12-hour shifts plus half a day on Saturdays.
• Accommodation in Hastings and transport to the site are required.
• Must be able to pass a Ministry of Justice background check.

Additional information

The position is based in Hastings, Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand, and is a contract role with onsite working required. The crane operator and dogman responsibilities are shared, with duties switched between the two functions as needed.

Salary or stipend details were not provided.