What Do You Do For A Living? *Photo Heavy*

[stazza]

I'm sure I saw a thread like this a long time ago, but couldn't find anything with the search tool.

I know a lot of members on here may refrain from discussing their occupation due to anonymity concerns, or workplace regulations, but those who can participate - What do you do for a crust?

Do you enjoy it? Is it where you imagined you'd be?

Would be cool to see some pictures of your work activities too, if you guys have any.

I guess I'll start - I'm currently a Crane Operator, have been in the seat for probably the last 4 or 5 years, with 5 or so years prior to that rigging and dogging. Absolutely love every aspect of my job, challenging but very rewarding. Never expected that I'd ever be operating cranes. I imagine in the mining and construction industry it can be one of the harder occupations to get into unless you know someone high up, or you have the gift of the gab. It is very competitive, with a lot of back stabbing and emotions . Personally I worked my way up off my own achievements and through hard work, building up a solid resume.

First crane gig was with a small piping company, got a lucky break and stepped into some very small cranes for a while, learning the ropes etc... Got made redundant, and that's where it all started to fall into place.

Scored a gig on a construction job at the Perth International Airport with Air BP, then moved on from there to Chevron's Gorgon Project working for CB&I for a few years. Ended up at Barrow Island with them, then after a year made the jump to Thiess. Because I was one of the youngest (if not THE youngest) operator up there I found it hard to get a permanent seat in a decent size crane and stretch my legs. Crane crews can be very clicky, and despite experience or aptitude, if you're young, it's very hard to move upwards (and I'm 30). Ended up biting the bullet and took a job doing shut down work with an actual crane hire company.

Halved my salary, was taken on a casual basis, lost a ton of great work conditions etc... yet I haven't looked back. Best thing I did was take my current job. Made me realize money isn't everything. I was on the highest paying construction job in the world, but was miserable every day. I can definitely say that as much as money is handy, it isn't everything - in my opinion. It comes and goes, but to be genuinely happy and really enjoy your job is such a better feeling than having a big pay cheque every week with an even bigger headache. It's to the point that some nights I find it hard to sleep because I actually look forward to work the next day Crazy huh?

Here's a couple happy snaps from some of my jobs:

First "real" gig at the Airport




Gorgon Project (unable to get many due to strict camera policy):

Rigger having a well earned rest


Small job in a 150ton Sumitomo crawler on a weekend:

Some very questionable rigging practices


Various shut downs around the South and North West:



75t Bucket







Beautiful Pilbara sunrise!


Happy as a pig in you know what: