Telehandler Operator

Job Overview

The Telehandler Operator is tasked with the safe, precise, and efficient handling of telescopic handlers to move and position materials, equipment, and loads across varied worksite conditions including rough terrain. This role demands adherence to manufacturer instructions, site lift protocols, and strict compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.

Primary Responsibilities

• Safely operate telehandlers to lift and situate materials such as pallets, pipes, equipment, and containers at heights and extended distances according to operational and manufacturer guidelines.
• Perform thorough pre-operation inspections including visual, mechanical, and functional checks; promptly report defects and complete daily inspection records.
• Interpret load charts accurately to determine safe load limits based on boom angle, extension, and radius before conducting lifts.
• Evaluate site ground conditions and stability, applying outriggers or stabilizers as necessary for secure machine positioning.
• Collaborate effectively with banksmen, riggers, and ground personnel using approved hand signals or radio communication throughout lifting tasks.
• Follow designated lift plans for complex lifts and escalate any anomalies or unsafe conditions to supervisory personnel.
• Ensure exclusion zones are enforced preventing personnel from being underneath suspended loads.
• Use only certified attachments appropriate for the task and never exceed rated capacity limits.
• Carry out routine operator maintenance such as checking fluids, tire condition, and greasing; alert maintenance teams of any equipment issues.
• Maintain accurate records of operating hours, inspections, and incidents following site procedures.
• Comply with all HSE policies, PPE mandates, and necessary permit-to-work processes related to material handling operations.
• Participate in regular safety briefings, toolbox talks, and relevant training sessions specific to telehandler use.

Qualifications and Certifications

• Forklift operator certification approved by Saudi Aramco.
• Completion of an Operator Certification Program.
• Medical clearance as per Saudi Aramco/contractor requirements.
• Certification in H2S safety and SCBA Level II.
• First Aid and CPR Level II certification.
• Firefighting certification Level II.
• Hazard Communication (HAZCOM) training.
• Certification for man-basket or personnel lifting attachments, if applicable.
• Secondary education or equivalent, with preference for vocational training in plant or equipment operation.

Experience

• At least 5 years operating telehandlers within construction, industrial, or rig-site environments.
• Proven experience handling equipment on uneven or unpaved terrain under outdoor conditions.
• Experience collaborating with riggers and banksmen and following established lift plans is advantageous.

Key Skills and Competencies

• Excellent spatial and load placement accuracy at height and extended reach.
• Strong understanding of load charts, stability principles, and calculation of safe working loads.
• Heightened safety awareness, situational alertness, and ability to identify and mitigate risks.
• Clear and effective communicator for coordination with ground teams.
• Ability to maintain composure and methodical approach under pressure.
• Basic mechanical knowledge for performing pre-use checks and reporting faults.

Work Environment and Physical Aspects

• Predominantly outdoor work exposed to heat, dust, and weather variations.
• Operations conducted on rough, uneven, or unfinished terrain typical of construction or rig sites.
• Potential shift work, extended hours, or rotations based on project demand.
• Mandatory use of full personal protective equipment according to site HSE policies.
• Physical ability to safely enter and exit the operator cabin and endure prolonged seated periods.
• Required good vision and depth perception, visually corrected if needed, to handle loads precisely.
• Must meet medical fitness standards as required for plant operator roles.

Key Working Relationships

• Internal collaboration with Site Supervisors, HSE Officers, Riggers, Banksmen, Maintenance teams, and fellow plant operators.
• External interaction with client site representatives, certification and inspection authorities, and equipment service vendors.