Assistant Offshore Crane Operator

From land-based cranes to offshore giants.
Take the next step in your career with Heerema Marine Contractors. Join our team and learn to operate the world's largest offshore cranes while working on iconic projects that help shape the future of global energy.

Your role in the story

As an Assistant Offshore Crane Operator you will learn how to operate the biggest offshore cranes in the world in a challenging marine environment. Initially under the guidance of experienced Crane Operators and after this initial period you are responsible for the mechanical operation of some of the largest offshore cranes in the world, with lifting capacities ranging from 3,000 to 10,000 metric tons. You will be a key player in a professional team of offshore specialists where you operate the crane while following instructions from a dedicated banksman and his team of riggers on deck, while continuously monitoring the instruments in the operator’s cabin. In addition, you regularly inspect, check and report on the mechanical condition of the crane and related machinery, ensuring safe and reliable operations at all times.

What you will be working on

• Operating offshore cranes in accordance with procedures and instructions
• Adhering to safe working practices as per industry standards at all times,
• Correctly understanding and strictly following emergency stop signals, radio communication and hand signals
• Performing daily inspections and reporting defects or malfunctions (e.g. corrosion, structural damage, wire wear, paint damage)
• Verifying that loads are correctly rigged and safe for lifting, prior to lifting
• Assisting with crane maintenance as instructed by the (Assistant) Chief Engineer and/or Chief Electrician
• Monitoring and verifying correct functioning of machinery and equipment and rectifying issues where possible
• Assisting with reeving activities
• Validating rigging selection and monitoring hook position during lifting operations
• Attending toolbox talks at the start of each shift (work permitting)
• Ensuring proper shift handover and job transfer

Key ingredients for success

• Intermediate vocational (technical) education (MBO level or equivalent)

• TCVT 4.01 certificate or Offshore Crane Operator Stage 3 (required)

• Minimal of 2 - 5 years of relevant experience operating offshore cranes (>2000 mt floating)

• Relevant experience operating cranes, such as mobile cranes, tower cranes, dragline cranes, bulk handling cranes or similar heavy lifting equipment

• Demonstrated ability to work safely and accurately in dynamic environments involving movement and load control

• Strong technical aptitude and the ability to learn new systems and procedures quickly

• Upper intermediate proficiency of the English language (B2 level)

• Intermediate proficiency of the Dutch language (preferred)

• A flexible attitude and strong safety awareness

• Willingness to obtain offshore and company-specific certifications after joining Heerema

Your future colleagues
You will work alongside highly experienced crane operators, engineers and offshore professionals who operate and maintain the world’s largest crane vessels. Together, you form a close-knit team where safety, craftsmanship and cooperation are key.

Your foundation for success
At Heerema, we value:

• A learning mindset: open to feedback, curious, and eager to grow
• Personal leadership: taking ownership of your work, development and impact
• An entrepreneurial attitude: turning challenges into solutions

Working at Heerema Marine Contractors
Making the impossible possible offshore, that’s what drives us. We operate the world’s largest crane vessels and execute complex offshore projects across the global energy market, from offshore wind installations to the removal of offshore platforms weighing up to 50,000 metric tons.

Here's why people love working with us

• Competitive compensation and benefits package through Marine Staffing Global (MSG), with attractive terms and conditions tailored to offshore professionals
• Comfortable cabins, fitness facilities, excellent catering, and onboard recreation
• A high focus on safety and sustainability
• 5 weeks on / 5 weeks off rotation schedule (subject to project needs)

Is this your dream job? We’d love to hear from you!

Please note: All applications for offshore crew positions are managed by our dedicated recruitment partner, Marine Staffing Global (MSG), who recruits exclusively for Heerema's fleet. To apply for this position, please visit Home | Marine Staffing Global and submit your application directly through their website. We look forward to receiving your application!

A unique maritime adventure

At Heerema Marine Contractors, we deliver the world’s most challenging offshore projects in the energy sector. From designing and engineering to transporting, installing, and removing offshore structures, we make the impossible possible — safely and sustainably.

Our success is built on the expertise and dedication of our diverse team, working together across offshore, onshore, and office-based roles. We value teamwork, innovation, and a can-do mindset, and we are proud of our culture where colleagues support and inspire each other to achieve excellence.

Join Heerema and become part of a world-class team shaping the future of the offshore industry.