Crane Operator

EDR Antwerp Shipyard is the largest shipyard in Belgium, specialised in ship maintenance and repairs, hull treatment and marine construction. Challenging activities require skilful and motivated team members. Over 150 vessels annually are repaired and maintained at our shipyard in Antwerp, and projects are performed on board vessels across the world.

As a Crane Operator, you play a key role in ensuring safe, efficient and well organised lifting operations within and around our dry dock. You will primarily operate one of our five cranes and support a wide range of dockside activities that contribute directly to vessel repair and maintenance projects. You will join a close knit team of experienced crane operators where teamwork and safety are central.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Operate one of the five cranes on site, including a Wolff tower crane, a Wolff luffing jib crane and three fully restored shipyard cranes with lifting capacities of up to 100 tonnes

• Carry out lifting operations safely and efficiently in accordance with site procedures and operational requirements

• Support signalling and guidance of lifting movements in areas with limited visibility or restricted access

• Assist with dry dock operations (such as the positioning of docking blocks)

• Actively support crane operations by maintaining clear lifting zones, monitoring traffic routes and minimising downtime

• Coordinate incoming materials and deliveries, ensuring safe and appropriate storage locations are assigned

• Serve as a communication link between subcontractors, shipyard teams, vessel crews and fellow crane operators

• Provide basic rigging support and assist colleagues in selecting and using suitable lifting equipment

• Maintain good order, cleanliness and safety standards around the dry dock area

• Identify, report and document damage, deviations and unsafe situations

• Support other operational activities on site when crane work is temporarily unavailable

REQUIREMENTS

• Good knowledge of English, which is the primary language used for operational communication, radio contact and coordination with subcontractors and vessel crews

• Knowledge of Dutch is an advantage for internal coordination and site instructions. Knowledge of Polish and/or Romanian is considered a strong asset

• Strong safety awareness and the ability to maintain oversight and prioritise effectively in a dynamic work environment

• Confident communicator with a practical and collaborative approach

• Hands on attitude and a consistent commitment to agreed procedures and safety standards

• Experience with crane operations, forklifts and/or mobile elevated work platforms is highly advantageous

• Flexibility to align working hours (daytime hours) with operational requirements, deliveries and lifting schedules

• Weekend work may occur, but is not mandatory and will be arranged in consultation with the other colleagues

OPPORTUNITY

• A highly visible and important role with direct impact on safety, operational efficiency and collaboration within the dry dock

• Comprehensive internal training (VCA, forklift, cherry picker, reachstacker,....)

• Opportunities for professional development and progression within the organisation

• Meal vouchers worth €10 per day worked

• DKV hospitalisation insurance

• 20 statutory vacation days and 12 ADV days annually for full time employment

• Opportunity to lease a bike

• Supplementary pension scheme through the Belgian metal sector fund

• Commuting allowance for car, bicycle or public transport

• A supportive working environment where growth, collaboration and enjoyment go hand in hand

• The opportunity to contribute to some of the most challenging and exciting ship repair projects in Belgium’s leading shipyard