Heavy Equipment Operator – Sideboom (Saudi Arabia)

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 pipeline construction activities.

Key responsibilities

• Operate the sideboom strictly according to the manufacturer’s load chart and the approved lift plan.
• Hold pipe in alignment for welding fronts without shock loading and lower welded strings into the trench in coordinated multi‑machine lifts.
• Complete documented pre‑use inspections each shift, report defects and maintain daily logs.
• 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 (5) years operating sidebooms/pipelayers on pipeline construction, with at least two (2) years in the GCC.
• Experience on Caterpillar pipelayers (models 561, 572, 583, 587) or equivalent.
• Valid Saudi heavy‑vehicle/equipment driving licence (or ability to obtain on mobilisation) and a current Medical Fitness certificate.
• H2S familiarisation and Basic Fire‑Fighting/First‑Aid certification (or willingness to complete on mobilisation).
• Strong background in pipeline construction operations, including stringing, welding support, lowering‑in, tie‑ins and crossings.

Required skills

• Caterpillar pipelayers (561, 572, 583, 587 series) operation.
• Load‑chart interpretation and application.
• Machine inspection and operator‑level maintenance.
• Ground condition and bearing‑capacity assessment.
• Hand and radio signal communication.
• H2S familiarisation, basic fire‑fighting and first‑aid.