Lead Production Engineer

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Professional development opportunities

Fully remote work

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Production Engineer based in Durban, SA, to maximize hydrocarbon production and lead a team of engineers. The role emphasizes optimization, safety, and cross-functional collaboration within oil and gas operations.

The candidate will manage artificial lift systems, troubleshoot production challenges, and drive efficient facility performance across multiple fields in KwaZulu-Natal. A strong track record in production design and innovation is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum or Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum 10 years in oil and gas production engineering.
• Experience with artificial lift systems and wellbore flow.

Responsibilities

• Lead the production engineering team to optimize field performance.
• Develop and implement production enhancement strategies, incl. artificial lift.
• Analyze data to identify performance issues and opportunities.
• Design well interventions and workovers to improve recovery.
• Ensure reliability of production facilities and equipment.
• Mentor junior engineers and collaborate with drilling and reservoir teams.
• Prepare reports and present findings to management.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Cross-functional collaboration

Communication

Problem solving

Safety & compliance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering

Tools

Production analysis software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant force within the Oil & Gas sector, is looking for an experienced and forward-thinking Lead Production Engineer to join their dedicated team operating out of Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA . This role is central to maximizing hydrocarbon production from various fields, ensuring efficient and safe operations. The Lead Production Engineer will be responsible for optimizing well performance, managing artificial lift systems, and troubleshooting production challenges. We are seeking a candidate with a proven history of success in production optimization, process design, and implementing innovative solutions within the Oil & Gas industry . This position offers the chance to lead a team of talented engineers and make a tangible impact on the company's operational success, based in the strategic location of Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the production engineering team in optimizing field production and facility operations.
• Develop and implement production enhancement strategies, including artificial lift optimization.
• Analyze production data to identify well performance issues and opportunities.
• Design and implement well interventions and workovers to improve recovery.
• Ensure the integrity and reliability of production facilities and equipment.
• Oversee the commissioning and start-up of new production facilities.
• Develop and manage production forecasts and budgets.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Mentor and develop junior production engineers.
• Collaborate with drilling, reservoir, and facilities engineers to achieve integrated field development plans.
• Troubleshoot complex production-related operational problems.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings to management.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in production engineering within the Oil & Gas sector .
• Demonstrated experience in artificial lift systems (e.g., ESPs, gas lift, rod pumps).
• Strong understanding of wellbore flow, multiphase flow, and surface facilities.
• Proficiency in production analysis software and tools.
• Experience in managing production budgets and optimizing operating expenses.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and team management skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional team environment.
• Experience with operations in the Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA region is highly desirable.
• Strong commitment to safety, environmental protection, and operational excellence.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with performance-based incentives and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement contributions, and ongoing professional development opportunities. This role provides an excellent platform for career progression within a leading Oil & Gas organization. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to lead significant projects and contribute to the company's strategic growth. Working in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA offers a vibrant coastal lifestyle. This position is designated as fully Remote , offering flexibility for the right candidate.