Lead Subsea Engineer - On-site

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Annual performance-based bonus

International exposure

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Subsea Engineer to drive design, procurement, and installation of subsea systems in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. This hybrid role combines on-site leadership for major meetings with remote design work.

The ideal candidate has 12+ years in subsea, strong project management, and experience leading teams through FEED, fabrication, and commissioning. Demonstrated knowledge of API/DNV standards is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Marine Engineering (Master's preferred).
• Minimum 12 years in subsea engineering with offshore Oil & Gas focus.
• Experience leading engineering teams from concept to commissioning.
• Knowledge of subsea hardware (trees, manifolds, PLETs, PLEMs, umbilicals, risers).
• Proficient in subsea design software and analysis tools.
• Strong pipeline engineering, flow assurance, and structural integrity awareness.

Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and detailed engineering of subsea systems and equipment.
• Develop and review technical specifications, scope of work, and procurement documents for subsea hardware and services.
• Oversee fabrication, testing, and installation phases, ensuring compliance with design and schedules.
• Mentor junior engineers and guide project teams.
• Conduct FEED studies for subsea field developments and manage risks, interfaces, and change orders.

Skills

Subsea leadership

Project management

Offshore oil & gas

Mentorship

Hybrid work

Education

BEng Mechanical Engineering

BEng Marine Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Subsea design software

FEED tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an accomplished Lead Subsea Engineer to spearhead their subsea engineering initiatives within the vibrant energy hub of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA . This hybrid role requires a strategic blend of on-site presence for critical project meetings, site inspections, and team collaboration, alongside remote flexibility for focused design and analysis work. You will be instrumental in the design, specification, procurement, and installation of subsea production systems, including pipelines, manifolds, trees, and associated infrastructure for the Oil & Gas industry. This leadership position demands extensive technical expertise, strong project management skills, and the ability to guide and mentor a team of subsea engineers. You will ensure that all subsea projects meet stringent safety, quality, and performance standards. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to complex offshore projects and shape the future of subsea development for a prominent player in the energy sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and detailed engineering of subsea systems and equipment.
• Develop and review technical specifications, scope of work, and procurement documents for subsea hardware and services.
• Oversee the fabrication, testing, and installation phases of subsea projects, ensuring compliance with design intent and project schedules.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineering staff.
• Conduct feasibility studies and front-end engineering designs (FEED) for subsea field developments.
• Manage project risks, interfaces, and change orders associated with subsea scope.
• Ensure adherence to international codes, standards (e.g., API, DNV), and company policies.
• Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including subsurface, topsides, marine, and construction departments.
• Review and approve vendor documentation, ensuring technical integrity and compliance.
• Participate in HAZID, HAZOP, and other safety review sessions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Marine Engineering, or a related field. A Master's degree is preferred.
• Minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in subsea engineering, with a strong focus on offshore Oil & Gas projects.
• Demonstrated experience in leading engineering teams and managing subsea projects from concept to commissioning.
• In-depth knowledge of subsea hardware (e.g., trees, manifolds, PLETs, PLEMs, umbilicals, risers) and installation methods.
• Proficiency in relevant subsea design software and analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of pipeline engineering, flow assurance, and structural integrity.
• Excellent project management, leadership, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing on-site and remote duties.
• Familiarity with marine operations and offshore construction challenges.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to the Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA area, with flexibility for on-site work.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, retirement fund, and an annual performance-based bonus. This hybrid role provides the flexibility to balance personal life with professional responsibilities, while still benefiting from the collaborative aspects of office-based work. You will have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge offshore projects, utilize advanced engineering tools, and contribute significantly to the growth of the company in the Oil & Gas sector. Professional development and continuous learning are strongly encouraged. This role is based in our well-equipped facility in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA , a strategic location for offshore operations. Additional benefits include generous paid time off and opportunities for international exposure.