Operations Manager - Upstream

Placements24; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary

Health Insurance

Company vehicle

Travel allowance

Career growth

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Operations Manager to lead upstream operations in the Pretoria region. The role focuses on safe, efficient, and cost-effective exploration and production activities, including budgeting and regulatory compliance.

The position demands strategic leadership, optimization of resources, and a commitment to safety, with opportunities to drive performance and business growth in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Petroleum, Mechanical, or Chemical) or related field.
• 10+ years in upstream oil & gas, with at least 4 years in a management role.
• Experience managing large-scale operational budgets and cost optimization.
• Strong knowledge of drilling, production, and reservoir engineering.
• Proven leadership and ability to manage diverse teams.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage upstream oil and gas operations across drilling, completion, and production.
• Develop strategies to achieve production targets and improve recovery.
• Oversee budget development and cost control for all operations.
• Ensure health, safety, environmental, and regulatory compliance across operations.
• Lead and develop engineers, supervisors, and field personnel.
• Manage relationships with contractors, service providers, and government agencies.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Regulatory compliance

Strategic planning

Risk management

Team development

Upstream oil & gas

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for a highly motivated Operations Manager to lead upstream operations in the Pretoria region. This senior role involves overseeing the safe, efficient, and cost-effective execution of exploration and production activities. You will be responsible for managing budgets, optimizing resource allocation, and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations. This is a critical leadership opportunity to shape the company's operational strategy and drive performance in a demanding industry, fostering a culture of excellence, safety, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all upstream oil and gas operations, including drilling, completion, and production.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to achieve production targets and enhance recovery rates.
• Oversee budget development and management for all operational activities, ensuring cost control and efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and regulatory standards across all operations.
• Lead and develop a high-performing team of engineers, supervisors, and field personnel.
• Manage relationships with contractors, service providers, and government agencies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Petroleum, Mechanical, or Chemical) or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in the upstream oil and gas industry, with at least 4 years in a management role.
• Proven experience in managing large-scale operational budgets and optimizing operational costs.
• Strong understanding of drilling, production, and reservoir engineering principles.
• Demonstrated leadership skills and the ability to motivate and manage diverse teams.
• Excellent strategic planning, decision-making, and risk management abilities.

Benefits

• Executive-level salary and comprehensive bonus program.
• Premium health, life, and disability insurance.
• Company vehicle and generous travel allowance.
• Significant opportunities for career growth in Pretoria and beyond.
• A dynamic and challenging work environment focused on achieving strategic goals.