Section Head Mechanical (SWRO)

Acwa Operations; Jeddah; On-site; SAR 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading operations company in Saudi Arabia is seeking a Section Head – Mechanical to oversee mechanical maintenance activities across multiple plants. This hands-on leadership role requires at least 10 years of mechanical maintenance experience, with strong leadership and technical skills, particularly in SAP for maintenance management. The candidate will ensure compliance with HSE regulations while leading the maintenance team and managing operational challenges.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of relevant mechanical maintenance experience.
• Proven experience leading maintenance teams in a plant environment.
• Strong knowledge of mechanical maintenance practices.

Responsibilities

• Plan and supervise preventive maintenance for mechanical equipment.
• Lead mechanical activities during outages and overhauls.
• Conduct root cause analysis for mechanical issues.

Skills

Mechanical maintenance practices

HSE, Quality, and Environmental Management Systems

Root cause analysis

Leadership and team management

Strong English communication skills

SAP (CMMS end-user)

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Master’s Degree

Job description

Section Head – Mechanical (Maintenance)

📍 Location: Plant / Maintenance Department

🧭 Reporting to: Maintenance Manager

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Section Head – Mechanical to lead and supervise all mechanical maintenance activities across 3 SWRO plants. Reporting to the Maintenance Manager, this role is responsible for planning and executing preventive and corrective maintenance, managing outages and overhauls, and ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient operation of all mechanical equipment.

This is a hands‑on leadership role requiring strong technical depth, SAP/CMMS exposure, and the ability to lead teams in a high‑risk industrial environment.

Key Responsibilities

Maintenance & Operations

• Plan, supervise, and execute preventive, corrective, and breakdown maintenance for all mechanical equipment
• Lead mechanical activities during monthly and annual outages and overhauls
• Troubleshoot plant mechanical issues and lead root cause analysis and resolution
• Execute work orders through SAP CMMS, coordinating with maintenance engineers and supervisors
• Ensure effective lubrication, repair, cleaning, and servicing of mechanical, hydraulic, and associated systems

Spare Parts & Budget Control

• Prepare purchase requisitions for spare parts and consumables within budget
• Ensure availability of critical and strategic spares to support maintenance activities
• Coordinate spare parts usage and inventory updates with supervisors and foremen

HSE, IMS & Compliance

• Ensure Environmental Aspect–Impact and Hazard Risk Assessments are conducted and maintained
• Implement, monitor, and report on Integrated Management System (IMS) objectives and performance
• Ensure compliance with legal, contractual, and organizational HSE requirements
• Identify non‑conformances, conduct root cause analysis, and implement corrective/preventive actions
• Report incidents, near misses, and emergencies in line with company procedures

People Leadership & Development

• Lead, supervise, and develop the mechanical maintenance team
• Identify competency gaps and implement training and development plans
• Conduct annual performance evaluations for direct reports
• Provide on‑the‑job training and evaluate OJT performance for new employees
• Ensure effective resource utilization and workforce planning

Qualifications & Experience

Education

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering (mandatory)
• Master’s Degree – preferred

Experience

• Minimum 10 years of relevant mechanical maintenance experience
• 12+ years preferred in power, utilities, industrial, or process plants
• Proven experience leading maintenance teams in a plant environment

Key Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of mechanical maintenance practices and plant equipment
• Working knowledge of HSE, Quality, and Environmental Management Systems
• Hazard Risk & Aspect‑Impact Assessment expertise
• Root cause analysis and investigation skills
• Experience managing HSE emergencies and spill containment
• Strong leadership and team management capability
• Proficient in SAP (CMMS end‑user)
• Strong English communication skills (written & verbal)
• Computer‑literate (MS Outlook and standard office tools)

Work Environment

This role involves regular exposure to operational plant conditions, including moving machinery, outdoor environments, elevated work areas, noise, and potential exposure to chemicals and electrical risks. Adherence to safety procedures is mandatory at all times.