Principal Production Engineer

Placements24; Randburg; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,200,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a highly experienced Principal Production Engineer for an on-site role in Randburg, Gauteng. You will lead production optimization across oil and gas assets, develop advanced strategies, and drive safe, cost-effective operations while maximizing hydrocarbon recovery.

The ideal candidate has a strong background in artificial lift, wellbore hydraulics, nodal analysis, and field development, with at least 12 years in production engineering and proven leadership to mentor junior

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Petroleum Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 12 years of progressive experience in production engineering.
• Extensive hands-on expertise with artificial lift systems.
• Strong knowledge of wellbore hydraulics and surface facilities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement production optimization strategies for oil and gas assets.
• Analyze production data to identify issues and maximize recovery.
• Lead design and operations of artificial lift systems.
• Troubleshoot production challenges across wells and facilities.
• Mentor junior engineers and coordinate with multidisciplinary teams.
• Prepare forecasts, budgets, and technical reports.

Skills

Production optimization

Artificial lift design

Wellbore hydraulics

Nodal analysis

System modeling

Cross-functional leadership

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Petroleum Engineering

Tools

ESP systems

Gas lift

Rod pumps

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant force in the Oil & Gas exploration and production sector, is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Principal Production Engineer to lead their production optimization efforts. Based in Randburg, Gauteng , this senior role is crucial for maximizing hydrocarbon recovery and ensuring the efficient, safe, and cost-effective operation of production assets. You will be responsible for developing and implementing advanced production strategies, optimizing well performance, and managing production challenges. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of production systems, artificial lift, wellbore flow, and surface facilities. This is an on-site position, requiring your full commitment to operational excellence and team leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive production optimization strategies for oil and gas fields.
• Analyze production data, identify performance issues, and recommend solutions to maximize recovery rates.
• Oversee the design, selection, and application of artificial lift systems (e.g., ESPs, gas lift, rod pumps).
• Troubleshoot complex production problems, including wellbore issues, surface facility constraints, and flow assurance challenges.
• Conduct nodal analysis and system modeling to optimize production throughput.
• Collaborate with reservoir engineers, drilling engineers, and geologists to ensure integrated field development and production planning.
• Manage production operations, ensuring compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Evaluate and implement new production technologies and techniques.
• Prepare production forecasts, budgets, and technical reports for management.
• Mentor and guide junior production engineers and technical staff.
• Lead technical reviews and provide expert input on production-related projects.
• Stay abreast of industry best practices and emerging trends in production engineering.

Requirements

• Requirements Bachelor's or Master's degree in Petroleum Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
• A minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in production engineering within the Oil & Gas industry.
• Extensive expertise in artificial lift design, operation, and troubleshooting.
• Strong understanding of wellbore hydraulics, fluid flow, and surface facility operations.
• Proven experience in production optimization, field development, and performance monitoring.