When it
comes to careers within the heavy lift industry, we often find that roles with similar titles require
a variation of different skills and experience to perform. While the titles of
these projects may be self-explanatory, the speculations/requirements behind
these can be very different!
Should I work an onshore role?
Onshore projects are usually of a very large scale and typically based on construction sites, infrastructure developments, ports, or industrial facilities. These sites can range from urban developments to remote areas, depending on the nature of the project. These projects are more common than offshore and can be found in numerous locations, making this sort of work easy to get to, often cancelling out the need for long travel or relocation.
Like with any industry, the project length is dependent on the scale and complexity of the work involved. This means that these roles offer a great variety of contract lengths which can be as little as a few weeks-months or more long term like 3+ years. Whether you prefer short or long-term contracts, onshore projects provide an option which tailors to both!
At QCS Staffing, our clients are always looking for roles such as Riggers, Crane Operators, Lift Supervisors and more! Obviously, these roles require their own qualifications or certificates and experience; but for roles such as Riggers, onshore work is a great way to gain experience and develop your skills as an entry level candidate.
Advantages:
Working onshore in the heavy lift industry comes with a lot of practical benefits that appeal to many professionals. One of the biggest plus points is the routine, most roles follow a regular schedule, meaning you can head home at the end of the day rather than spending weeks away offshore. This makes it easier to balance work with family life or personal commitments. Onshore projects are often more accessible too, with sites located across the UK in areas like ports, construction zones, and industrial facilities. You’ll be part of a team, working alongside other skilled trades, and there’s plenty of opportunity to build your experience and move up the ladder. Whether you're starting out as a Rigger or stepping into a Lift Supervisor role, onshore work offers stability, variety, and a clear path for career progression.
Disadvantages:
While onshore heavy lift roles offer stability and routine, they’re not without their challenges. The work can be physically demanding, often outdoors in all weather conditions, which means long days in the cold, rain, or heat depending on the season. Sites can be noisy, dusty, and busy, requiring constant awareness and strict adherence to safety protocols.
Travel to and from remote or congested locations can also be tiring, especially for those commuting daily. Unlike offshore roles, which often come with accommodation and extended time off, onshore work typically involves a standard weekly schedule with fewer perks, but can still offer great benefits. While there are opportunities for progression, competition can be high, and roles may be more limited depending on the region and project availability
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