Principal Subsea Engineer - Offshore Operations

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive medical coverage

Long-term disability insurance

Top-tier retirement plan

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Principal Subsea Engineer in Cape Town to lead the design, engineering, installation, and integrity management of complex subsea systems for offshore projects.

The role requires extensive SURF expertise, flow assurance, and project execution leadership, with responsibility for mentoring teams and coordinating with international partners.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Ocean Engineering, or related discipline.
• 12+ years of subsea engineering experience in offshore oil & gas.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and engineering of subsea production systems (wellheads, trees, manifolds, tie-ins).
• Oversee SURF (umbilicals, risers, flowlines) design, analysis and specs.
• Manage subsea project execution, ensuring on-time, on-budget delivery and high quality.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to subsea teams.
• Conduct flow assurance studies for safe hydrocarbon transport.
• Develop and implement subsea integrity management strategies and inspection programs.
• Collaborate with marine operations, drilling, and production to ensure integration.
• Interface with vendors, contractors, and regulators throughout the lifecycle.
• Assess and implement new subsea technologies to improve efficiency and safety.
• Ensure compliance with industry codes and standards.

Skills

Leadership

Subsea engineering

Project execution

Flow assurance

SURF design

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Master's degree in Ocean Engineering

Tools

OLGA

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the offshore oil and gas exploration and production sector, is seeking a highly experienced Principal Subsea Engineer. This critical role is based in the vibrant coastal city of Cape Town, Western Cape. The Principal Subsea Engineer will be responsible for the design, engineering, installation, and integrity management of complex subsea systems and infrastructure for offshore projects. This position demands extensive expertise in subsea hardware, flow assurance, SURF (Subsea Umbilicals, Risers, and Flowlines) design, and project execution in challenging marine environments. You will lead a team of subsea engineers, collaborate with international partners, and provide high-level technical direction to ensure project success and operational integrity. Our client is renowned for its commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainable practices in the energy industry, making this an exceptional opportunity for a distinguished subsea engineering professional.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and engineering of subsea production systems, including wellheads, trees, manifolds, and tie-ins.


• Oversee the design, analysis, and specification of subsea umbilicals, risers, and flowlines (SURF).


• Manage subsea project execution, ensuring timely delivery within budget and to the highest quality standards.


• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to subsea engineering teams.


• Conduct and review flow assurance studies to ensure safe and efficient hydrocarbon transport.


• Develop and implement subsea integrity management strategies and inspection programs.


• Collaborate with marine operations, drilling, and production departments to ensure seamless integration.


• Interface with vendors, contractors, and regulatory bodies throughout the project lifecycle.


• Assess and implement new subsea technologies to enhance efficiency and safety.


• Ensure compliance with all relevant industry codes, standards, and regulations.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Ocean Engineering, or a related discipline from a reputable institution.


• A minimum of 12 years of extensive experience in subsea engineering within the offshore oil and gas industry.


• Demonstrated expertise in subsea hardware design, manufacturing, and testing.


• In-depth knowledge of SURF engineering, pipeline design, and materials science.


• Proven experience in managing complex offshore subsea projects from concept through to commissioning.


• Strong understanding of flow assurance principles and software (e.g., OLGA).


• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.


• Registered Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) or equivalent international charter is highly advantageous.


• Experience working on projects involving deepwater or harsh environment conditions is desirable.


• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa.

Benefits

This position offers an exceptionally competitive salary, significant performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including executive-level medical coverage, long-term disability insurance, and a top-tier retirement plan. Our client provides unparalleled opportunities for career advancement and global exposure. Relocation assistance to the desirable city of Cape Town is provided. The company champions a culture of innovation, safety, and continuous professional development, offering access to cutting-edge technology and challenging projects.