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Heavy Lift Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MHI

Transportation Engineer

Lake Mary, FL · On-site

$67K - $89K/yr

Review barge, marine, and crane engineering calculations for heavy lift operations. * Validate transport configurations including SPMTs, hydraulic trailers, rail, and barge solutions. * Develop ...

Bechtel

Rigging Engineer

Houston, TX

Assesses technical proposals of subcontractor heavy haul and heavy lift bid packages. Education and Experience Requirements: * Engineering degree (preferanbly civil or mechanical) from a 4-year ...

Bechtel Corporation

Rigging Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

Assesses technical proposals of subcontractor heavy haul and heavy lift bid packages. Education and Experience Requirements: * Engineering degree (preferanbly civil or mechanical) from a 4-year ...

Bechtel

Rigging Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

Assesses technical proposals of subcontractor heavy haul and heavy lift bid packages. Education and Experience Requirements: * Engineering degree (preferanbly civil or mechanical) from a 4-year ...

deugro group

Transport Engineer

The Woodlands, TX · On-site

$69K - $91K/yr

OOG, Heavy Lift, Barge, Rail and Break Bulk moves across major capital projects * Develop Method Statements; working closely with both commercial and operational stakeholders, outlining client ...

Dragados USA

Superintendent - Heavy Civil

Boston, MA

$130K - $180K/yr

Coordinate and plan critical lift operations, traffic phasing, demolition, excavation, and ... Collaborate with project engineers and field staff to develop work plans and resolve technical ...

JF White

Superintendent - Heavy Civil

Boston, MA

$130K - $180K/yr

Coordinate and plan critical lift operations, traffic phasing, demolition, excavation, and ... Collaborate with project engineers and field staff to develop work plans and resolve technical ...

Barnhart

Engineer (Level I)

Birmingham, AL · On-site

Basic understanding of cost estimation processes for heavy lift projects. * Physical Requirements ... Sales Engineer * Assist Barnhart Sales Team by developing innovative heavy-lift/heavy-transport ...

Barnhart

Engineer (Level I)

Memphis, TN · On-site

Basic understanding of cost estimation processes for heavy lift projects. * Physical Requirements ... Sales Engineer * Assist Barnhart Sales Team by developing innovative heavy-lift/heavy-transport ...

Barnhart

Engineer (Level I)

Memphis, TN · On-site

Basic understanding of cost estimation processes for heavy lift projects. * Physical Requirements ... Sales Engineer * Assist Barnhart Sales Team by developing innovative heavy-lift/heavy-transport ...

Barnhart

R&D Fluid Power & Controls Engineer

Memphis, TN · On-site

$81K - $104K/yr

Work in a team environment to design innovative equipment for heavy lift and transport projects ... An R&D Engineer may be present during the initial field use of the gear to capture lessons learned ...

Barnhart

R&D Fluid Power & Controls Engineer

Memphis, TN · On-site

$81K - $104K/yr

Work in a team environment to design innovative equipment for heavy lift and transport projects ... An R&D Engineer may be present during the initial field use of the gear to capture lessons learned ...

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Heavy Lift Engineer information

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How much do heavy lift engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy lift engineer in the United States is $44.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.86 and $51.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Heavy Lift Engineers?

Heavy Lift Engineers are specialized professionals who plan, design, and oversee the execution of lifting operations involving exceptionally large or heavy objects, such as industrial equipment, structural components, or offshore modules. They ensure that all aspects of a heavy lift, from rigging and equipment selection to safety protocols and structural analysis, are carefully considered to prevent accidents and ensure efficiency. Heavy Lift Engineers often work in industries like construction, oil and gas, shipping, and renewable energy, collaborating with project managers, crane operators, and other engineers to deliver successful lifting solutions.

What are some common challenges faced by Heavy Lift Engineers during large-scale projects?

Heavy Lift Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating complex logistics, ensuring strict adherence to safety standards, and managing communication across multidisciplinary teams. Projects may involve unpredictable variables such as weather conditions, equipment availability, and site constraints, all of which require proactive problem-solving. Successfully navigating these challenges demands strong planning skills, attention to detail, and the ability to adapt to evolving project requirements while maintaining a focus on safety and efficiency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Heavy Lift Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Heavy Lift Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or civil engineering, with expertise in structural analysis and heavy lifting methods, usually backed by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, lifting simulation tools, and industry certifications such as ASME or relevant rigging qualifications are typically required. Strong problem-solving ability, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for coordinating with multidisciplinary teams and ensuring safety. These skills ensure that complex lifting operations are executed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with industry standards.

What is the difference between Heavy Lift Engineer vs Crane Engineer?

AspectHeavy Lift EngineerCrane Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in lifting and riggingEngineering or technical diploma, crane operation certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial projects, offshore facilitiesConstruction sites, manufacturing plants, port terminals
Industry UsageHeavy lifting projects, infrastructure, oil & gasCrane operation, maintenance, and safety management

Heavy Lift Engineers focus on planning and overseeing large-scale lifting operations, ensuring safety and compliance. Crane Engineers specialize in the design, maintenance, and operation of cranes. While both roles require knowledge of lifting equipment, Heavy Lift Engineers handle complex logistics and project management, whereas Crane Engineers focus on crane functionality and safety. Both roles are essential in construction and industrial sectors, often working together on large projects.

More about Heavy Lift Engineer jobs
What states have the most Heavy Lift Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Heavy Lift Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Heavy Lift Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Heavy Lift Engineer jobs are:
Heavy Lift Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Lift Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $91,574 per year, or $44 per hour.

Heavy Lift Engineer (All Levels)

Saronic Technologies

Austin, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted just now

Job description

Saronic Technologies is a leader in revolutionizing autonomy at sea, dedicated to developing state-of-the-art solutions that enhance maritime operations through autonomous and intelligent platforms.
Job Overview
The Heavy Lift Engineer is responsible for engineering the safe, reliable, and efficient movement of large ship blocks, modules, and heavy equipment throughout the shipyard using Self-Propelled Modular Transporters (SPMTs) and other transfer systems. The role also includes rigging engineering required to safely lift, rotate, and position major assemblies during transport and erection operations.
This position ensures that heavy component movement is fully integrated into shipyard design and production planning. The engineer will develop transfer strategies, rigging concepts, lifting studies, and transport plans to support efficient block movement while preventing production bottlenecks.
Early involvement in yard planning ensures that yard layouts, pavement structures, heavy lift equipment, transport corridors, and rigging strategies are designed to support safe and reliable operations at scale.
Responsibilities:
  • Heavy Transport & Transfer Engineering
    • Develop engineering plans for transporting ship blocks, modules, and heavy equipment across the shipyard using SPMTs and related transfer systems.
    • Calculate load distribution, axle configurations, ground pressures, and stability requirements for heavy transports.
    • Determine safe transport configurations for oversized, asymmetric, or high center-of-gravity loads.

    Rigging Engineering
    • Develop rigging concepts and lifting configurations for ship blocks, large modules, and heavy equipment.
    • Perform rigging calculations including sling loads, lift point forces, center-of-gravity analysis, and load factors.
    • Design lifting frames, spreader bars, rigging arrangements, and lifting interfaces where required.
    • Support development of lift plans for cranes, SPMT pick operations, and block erection activities.

    Yard Transfer Strategy
    • Define standard transport methods for block movement between fabrication, assembly, and erection areas.
    • Establish transport routes, staging strategies, and buffer areas that support efficient production flow.
    • Ensure heavy transport operations integrate with crane operations, erection sequencing, and waterfront activities.

    Yard Infrastructure Planning
    • Provide engineering input into yard layout to ensure transport corridors support heavy load movement.
    • Define pavement load requirements, turning radii, slopes, and surface tolerances required for SPMT operations.
    • Coordinate with civil and structural engineers on pavement design and structural loading requirements.

    Lift & Transport Integration
    • Coordinate transport engineering with crane lifts, rigging systems, and erection strategies.
    • Develop integrated lift-and-transfer plans for large modules and ship blocks.
    • Validate that lifting interfaces and transport frames align with ship structural design.

    Equipment & System Integration
    • Support selection and specification of SPMTs and other heavy transport systems.
    • Support the selection and specification of Cranes and other heavy lifting systems.
    • Evaluate alternative transfer methods including skidding systems, rails, cranes, or hybrid solutions.
    • Define operational limits, redundancy requirements, and maintenance considerations.

    Production Integration
    • Work closely with build strategy to ensure block sizes, weights, and geometry align with lifting and transport capabilities.
    • Identify potential logistics bottlenecks during early design phases.
    • Support build strategy development and erection sequencing.

    Safety & Risk Management
    • Identify hazards associated with heavy transport and rigging operations.
    • Develop safe work procedures and engineered controls for large load movements.
    • Support incident investigations and continuous improvement of heavy lift practices.
Qualifications:
  • Required
    • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or related field.
    • Experience with heavy transport, rigging engineering, or heavy lift engineering planning.
    • Strong understanding of structural load paths, load distribution, and lifting mechanics.
    • Ability to develop engineering plans for large component lifting and transport.
    • Experience with SPMT operations and heavy modular transport systems.
    • Familiarity with rigging standards and lift planning practices.

    Preferred
    • Direct Shipyard rigging and heavy lift engineering experience.
    • Experience supporting modular construction or large assembly operations.
    • Experience in transferring commercial and US government vessels from land level facilities to drydock.
Benefits:
Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of services
Saronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents
Dental and Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine dental check-ups, orthodontics, and vision care
Saronic pays 100% of the premium under the basic plan for employees and 80% for dependents
Time Off: Generous PTO and Holidays
Parental Leave: Paid maternity and paternity leave to support new parents
Competitive Salary: Industry-standard salaries with opportunities for performance-based bonuses
Retirement Plan: 401(k) plan with company match
Stock Options: Equity options to give employees a stake in the company's success
Life and Disability Insurance: Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage
Pet Insurance: Discounted pet insurance options including 24/7 Telehealth helpline
Additional Perks: Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the office
Saronic CCPA Notice for Candidates and California Employees
If this role is based in the United States, it requires access to export-controlled information or items that require "U.S. Person" status. As defined by U.S. law, individuals who are any one of the following are considered to be a "U.S. Person": (1) U.S. citizens, (2) legal permanent residents (a.k.a. green card holders), and (3) certain protected classes of asylees and refugees, as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).
Saronic does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, age, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other reason prohibited by law in provision of employment opportunities and benefits.

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