Heavy Equipment Operator – Sideboom

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Heavy Equipment Operator – Sideboom for a full‑time, on‑site role in Saudi Arabia. The Sideboom Operator lifts, carries, holds and lowers pipe along the right‑of‑way, supporting stringing, welding, coating and lowering‑in fronts on pipeline construction.

Key responsibilities

• Operate the sideboom strictly according to the manufacturer’s load chart and the approved lift plan.
• Hold pipe in alignment for the welding front without shock loading and lower welded strings into the trench in coordinated multi‑machine lifts.
• Complete documented pre‑use inspections each shift and report any defects.
• Assess ground bearing capacity and stability before positioning the equipment.
• Work to hand and radio signals from the designated rigger under direction of the Pipeline Foreman and Lifting Supervisor.

Required profile

• Minimum five years operating sidebooms/pipelayers on pipeline construction, including at least two years in the GCC.
• Demonstrated experience on Caterpillar pipelayers (561, 572, 583, 587 series) or equivalent.
• Valid Saudi heavy‑vehicle/equipment driving licence and medical fitness certificate; H2S familiarisation and basic fire‑fighting/first‑aid certification.
• Strong background in pipeline construction operations such as stringing, welding support, lowering‑in, tie‑ins and crossings.
• Ability to read and apply load charts, assess ground conditions, and follow hand and radio signals for safe lifting.

Required skills

• Caterpillar pipelayers 561, 572, 583, 587 series
• Machine inspection
• Operator‑level maintenance
• Heavy equipment operation