SPMT Operator

Job description

To safely operate Goldhofer Self-Propelled Modular Transporters (SPMTs) and supporting equipment on Allelys’ heavy lift, project cargo and installation contracts, moving loads from 50 tonnes up to several thousand tonnes for the UK’s energy, power generation and heavy industry sectors. The role combines on-site SPMT operation with general installations and yard duties.

Key responsibilities

• Operating Goldhofer SPMTs and PST/SL modular trailers to load, transport, manoeuvre, and set down abnormal and heavy loads — transformers, generators, turbines, vessels, bridge sections, and similar — to millimetre tolerances on customer sites.
• Configuring, coupling, and decoupling SPMT axle lines into the required trailer combinations (single-wide, double-wide, side-by-side, drawbar arrangements) to RAMS (Risk Assessment Method Statements), Safe Systems of Work and Lift Plans as applicable.
• Connecting and operating Power Pack Units (PPUs), managing hydraulic suspension, steering modes (conventional, crab, carousel, transverse), and load distribution across axle groups.
• Carrying out pre-use, in-service, and post-use inspections of SPMTs, PPUs, ballast tractors, lifting equipment/accessories, and ancillary equipment. Reporting any equipment malfunctions, damage or defects, near-misses, incidents or accidents to the Site Supervisor and/or Project Manager / Operations Manager.
• Working to project-specific RAMS, following ground bearing pressure calculations and stability checks.
• Working to authorised Management of Change documentation should site conditions require deviations from the agreed plan.
• Assisting other Allelys company activities as required to meet the business needs (for example, with Heavy Haulage or Project Installations teams).
• Loading and unloading equipment in the Allelys Studley yard, and assisting the workshop team with maintenance of SPMTs and associated equipment.
• Pre and post inspection of all equipment used on site, recording defects and removing damaged items from service in accordance with regulations and Allelys procedures.
• Working in a safe and responsible manner at all times, alongside Allelys colleagues, customer representatives, site teams and third parties.
• Following and complying with customer project site-specific safety requirements and police/third party instructions at all times while representing Allelys in a responsible and respectful manner.
• Travelling to and working remotely for the duration of projects, including overnight stays, weekends, and night moves to meet project requirements.

Key attributes

• Safety-first mindset — willing to stop the job if you consider that an incident is imminent due to unsafe conditions or acts.
• Calm under pressure — SPMT moves are high-value, high-visibility, often with little margin for error.
• Self-motivated, able to work equally well independently or as part of a team.
• Proactive, hands-on approach, whilst considering the safety of yourself and other team members both on site and at the Allelys Studley yard.
• Resilient in nature, with a “can do”, positive attitude whilst working under pressure should difficult situations arise.
• Professional approach to all work duties, demonstrated through consistently high standards of performance.
• Approachable and able to contribute effectively in a team environment.
• Flexible and reliable, willing to work a reasonable amount of overtime according to workload.
• Comfortable being away from home for extended periods, often in remote locations (substations, ports, power stations, refineries, wind farm sites).
• Good communicator — able to brief and be briefed clearly on site, including via radio.

Skills & qualifications required

Essential:

• Goldhofer SPMT experience is essential — this is non-negotiable for the role.
• Previous experience in heavy-lift, abnormal load, or project cargo installations.
• Sound understanding of load distribution, ground bearing pressure, and the stability principles set out in the ESTA SPMT Best Practice Guide.
• High level of attention to detail and ability to work in accordance with instructions as specified in the project RAMS (Risk Assessment Method Statement) and as directed by the Allelys Site Supervisor or Project Manager.
• Ability to identify hydraulic, electrical, and structural issues on SPMTs and PPUs.
• Resilient and able to work under pressure, often to tight project windows and customer deadlines.
• Ability to work remotely from the Allelys Studley yard, often for extended periods of time.

  Desirable:

• CPCS / NPORS / ALLMI tickets relevant to heavy-lift operations.
• Slinger/Signaller and Appointed Person qualifications.
• Manufacturer training from Goldhofer or Tii Group (Scheuerle/Kamag).
• LGV Cat C+E licence with STGO experience.
• IPAF, PASMA, working at height, and confined space tickets.
• Awareness of CDM 2015 duties on site.

Details

• Position reports to: Operations Manager
• Location: Studley Warwickshire, with extensive UK and occasional European travel to project sites
• Hours: As required to meet project schedules, including overnight stays, weekends and night moves

How to apply

Please use the form opposite to submit your CV along with a covering letter and ensure that you include why you believe you are the right fit for Allelys. If you don’t have a CV available and would prefer to fill out our full application form, please select the option within our form for you to do this.