Operations Technician - Upstream

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 360,000 - 540,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Overtime pay

Training opportunities

Safety-focused environment

Job summary

Placements24 in Mpumalanga, Nelspruit, is seeking an Operations Technician to monitor, operate and maintain upstream oil and gas production equipment. You will perform routine checks, respond to upsets and help implement preventative maintenance to maximize reliability and output.

The role requires a technical qualification and at least 3 years of hands-on experience in oil and gas, with a strong emphasis on safety, compliance, and working in a physically demanding environment in Nelspruit.

Qualifications

• Bachelor-level technical background with hands-on experience in oil and gas operations.
• Ability to diagnose and fix equipment issues with minimal downtime.
• Strong emphasis on safety, compliance, and operational best practices.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor production equipment, including pumps, compressors, and separation units.
• Perform routine inspections, preventative maintenance, and minor repairs on operational assets.
• Respond to operational upsets, troubleshoot equipment malfunctions, and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, health, and environmental procedures and regulations.
• Maintain accurate operational logs and report production data as required.

Skills

Upstream production processes

Troubleshooting equipment

Maintenance basics

Safety protocols

Education

National Diploma in Chemical Engineering

National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering

Equivalent trade qualification

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a skilled and motivated Operations Technician to join their upstream operations team in Nelspruit. This hands‑on role involves monitoring, operating, and maintaining production equipment to ensure the safe and efficient extraction of oil and gas resources. You will be responsible for routine checks, troubleshooting operational issues, and implementing preventative maintenance schedules. This position is crucial for maintaining operational integrity and maximizing production output in the Mpumalanga region, requiring a strong commitment to safety and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor production equipment, including pumps, compressors, and separation units.
• Perform routine inspections, preventative maintenance, and minor repairs on operational assets.
• Respond to operational upsets, troubleshoot equipment malfunctions, and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, health, and environmental procedures and regulations.
• Maintain accurate operational logs and report production data as required.

Requirements

• Relevant technical qualification (e.g., National Diploma in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent trade qualification).
• Minimum of 3 years of experience as an Operations Technician in the oil and gas production environment.
• Strong understanding of upstream production processes and equipment.
• Proficiency in troubleshooting operational issues and performing basic maintenance.
• Ability to work effectively in a physically demanding environment and adhere to strict safety protocols in Nelspruit.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package, including medical aid and retirement fund.
• Opportunity for overtime pay and performance bonuses.
• On-the-job training and professional development opportunities.
• Stable employment within a key sector of the Mpumalanga economy.
• A safety-focused work environment committed to operational reliability.