Hankinson played his junior at the Hindley ARLFC. He was in the junior systems of the Salford City Reds, but did not progress through to the first team.[citation needed]
Leigh Centurions
He left Salford to begin his professional career at the Leigh Centurions. He made his debut for Leigh in 2014.
On 31 December 2020 it was announced that he had signed for the London Broncos for the 2021 season.[4]
Toulouse Olympique
On 9 November it was announced that Hankinson had left Wigan and signed for Toulouse Olympique on a two-year deal. He will become the third goal-kicker at Toulouse alongside Mark Kheirallah and Anthony Marion.[5]
Featherstone Rovers
On 17 October 2022 it was announced that Hankinson had signed for Featherstone for the 2023 season.[6]
Salford Red Devils
On 8 December 2023, it was reported that he had signed for Salford in the Super League on a two-year deal.[7]