Operations Manager - Upstream Oil & Gas

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive bonuses

Health & retirement benefits

Company vehicle

Housing allowance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an accomplished Operations Manager to oversee upstream oil and gas activities from the Port Elizabeth base. The role focuses on safe, efficient, and cost‑effective exploration and production, with leadership of engineers and field staff to deliver targets.

You will drive operational excellence, ensure SHE compliance, manage budgets, and mentor a high‑performing team in a dynamic environment, with substantial responsibility and growth opportunities within the portfolio.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Petroleum, Mechanical, or Chemical) or related field.
• 10+ years experience in upstream oil & gas operations management.
• Leadership of engineering and field teams with compliance focus.

Responsibilities

• Lead upstream oil & gas operations including drilling, completions, and production.
• Develop strategies to meet production targets and optimize resource use.
• Ensure SHE standards and environmental regulations are followed.
• Manage operating budgets, control costs, and drive efficiency improvements.
• Mentor and develop the operations team toward high performance.

Skills

Upstream operations

Leadership

Budget management

Strategic planning

Drilling & production knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Petroleum, Mechanical, or Chemical)

Tools

None

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an accomplished Operations Manager to oversee upstream activities in the Port Elizabeth region. This leadership position is responsible for the safe, efficient, and cost‑effective execution of exploration and production operations. You will manage a team of engineers and field staff, ensuring adherence to operational targets, safety protocols, and environmental regulations. This is a key role within our client's South African oil & gas portfolio, offering significant responsibility and the opportunity to drive operational excellence from their Port Elizabeth base.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all aspects of upstream oil and gas operations, including drilling, completions, and production.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to achieve production targets and optimize resource utilization.
• Ensure rigorous adherence to safety, health, and environmental (SHE) standards and regulations.
• Manage operational budgets, control costs, and identify opportunities for efficiency improvements.
• Mentor and develop the operations team, fostering a culture of high performance and continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Petroleum, Mechanical, or Chemical) or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in upstream oil & gas operations management.
• Proven track record of successfully managing complex operational projects and teams.
• Strong understanding of drilling, production, and well services.
• Excellent leadership, strategic planning, and financial management skills.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary with executive bonuses.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, retirement, and life insurance.
• Company vehicle and housing allowance.
• Significant opportunities for career growth within a leading oil & gas organization.
• Engaging work environment based in Port Elizabeth.