Field Operations Superintendent - Upstream

Placements24; Riverton (UT); On-site; USD 73,000 - 121,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-site accommodation and allowances

Comprehensive medical, retirement, and

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Field Operations Superintendent to lead all upstream field production activities from an on-site base in South Africa. The role demands strong leadership, technical depth in production operations, and a proven ability to drive safety, reliability and efficiency across a diverse field team.

You will oversee production facilities, manage budgets, collaborate with engineering and drilling teams, and ensure compliance with stringent HSE standards.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive upstream Oil & Gas field operations experience with supervisory/management responsibilities.
• Deep knowledge of production operations, artificial lift systems, well testing, and facility operations.
• Strong understanding of HSE regulations and best practices in oil & gas.
• Excellent leadership, communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong financial acumen and experience in managing operating budgets.
• Ability to make sound decisions under pressure and drive continuous improvement.
• Experience working in remote or challenging environments.
• Familiarity with the South African upstream industry is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all daily upstream field operations, including production, maintenance, and support activities.
• Ensure safe, reliable, and efficient operation of all production equipment and facilities.
• Develop and implement operational plans, budgets, and performance targets.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of field supervisors, technicians, and operators.
• Oversee maintenance and integrity programs for production assets to minimize downtime and ensure compliance.
• Implement and enforce strict health, safety, and environmental policies and procedures.
• Manage operational costs effectively and identify opportunities for efficiency improvements.
• Collaborate with engineering, drilling, and reservoir management teams to optimize field performance and development.
• Conduct regular site inspections and performance reviews.
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements and company standards.

Skills

Leadership

HSE knowledge

Budget management

Strategic planning

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering or Mechanical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the upstream Oil & Gas sector, is seeking a highly experienced and results-driven Field Operations Superintendent to oversee all aspects of field production operations. This critical role demands strong leadership, deep technical knowledge, and a proven ability to manage complex operations safely and efficiently. The position is based in Upington, Northern Cape, ZA , requiring full-time on-site presence to ensure optimal performance and immediate response to operational needs. You will be responsible for leading a diverse team of field personnel, managing production facilities, and implementing strategies to maximize hydrocarbon recovery while adhering to stringent safety and environmental standards. We are looking for a seasoned professional with extensive experience in upstream operations and a commitment to operational excellence within the South African context.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all daily upstream field operations, including production, maintenance, and support activities.
• Ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of all production equipment and facilities.
• Develop and implement operational plans, budgets, and performance targets.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of field supervisors, technicians, and operators.
• Oversee maintenance and integrity programs for production assets to minimize downtime and ensure compliance.
• Implement and enforce strict health, safety, and environmental (HSE) policies and procedures.
• Manage operational costs effectively and identify opportunities for efficiency improvements.
• Collaborate with engineering, drilling, and reservoir management teams to optimize field performance and development.
• Conduct regular site inspections and performance reviews.
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements and company standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in upstream Oil & Gas field operations, with at least 5 years in a supervisory or management role.
• Proven track record of successfully managing complex field operations and diverse teams.
• In-depth knowledge of production operations, artificial lift systems, well testing, and facility operations.
• Strong understanding of HSE regulations and best practices in the oil and gas industry.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong financial acumen and experience in managing operational budgets.
• Ability to make sound decisions under pressure and drive continuous improvement.
• Experience working in remote or challenging operational environments.
• Familiarity with the South African upstream industry is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and comprehensive bonus structure.
• On-site accommodation and living allowance.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and retirement benefits.
• Generous annual leave and holiday allowances.
• Opportunities for significant career advancement and leadership development.
• Exposure to diverse and challenging upstream assets.
• A strong safety-focused organizational culture.