Project Manager – Cold Storage

Black Tie Recruit; Durban; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment firm seeks an experienced Project Manager for overseeing cold storage facility projects across South Africa. The successful candidate will ensure projects are delivered on time and meet safety and quality standards. This role requires a hands-on approach, expertise in ammonia refrigeration systems, and the ability to manage multiple projects nationally. Candidates should have a Trade Test Qualification and relevant project management experience. The position involves frequent travel to project sites.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years experience in project management within cold storage or industrial refrigeration.
• Proven experience working with ammonia refrigeration systems.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel nationally.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end project management of cold storage projects.
• Ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
• Monitor project progress and generate status reports.
• Supervise installation and handover of refrigeration systems.

Skills

Leadership skills

Communication skills

Problem-solving abilities

Attention to detail

Negotiation skills

Education

Trade Test Qualification (Millwright, Refrigeration Mechanic, etc.)

Relevant Project Management qualification

Tools

MS Project

Excel

AutoCAD

Job description

Location: Durban
Travel Requirement: National travel required (frequent site visits).

Position Summary

Our client, operating in the cold storage sector, is seeking an experienced and results-driven Project Manager to oversee the planning, coordination, and execution of cold storage facility projects across South Africa. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring that all projects are delivered on time, within scope, and to the highest safety and quality standards. This role requires a hands‑on individual with a trade test qualification, proven experience working with ammonia-based refrigeration systems, and strong project management skills. The role also involves extensive national travel to manage and monitor projects at various sites.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end project management of cold storage construction, refurbishment, and upgrade projects.
• Oversee project planning, budgeting, resource allocation, and scheduling.
• Ensure compliance with safety, health, environmental, and legal requirements, especially around ammonia refrigeration systems.
• Coordinate with contractors, suppliers, consultants, and internal stakeholders.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement risk mitigation strategies.
• Monitor project progress and generate regular status reports for management.
• Ensure quality assurance and control at every project phase.
• Supervise installation, commissioning, and handover of refrigeration systems.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously across different regions.

Travel frequently to project sites across the country.

Qualifications & Experience

Trade Test Qualification (e.g., Millwright, Refrigeration Mechanic, Fitter &‑Turner).

Minimum 5 years experience in a project management role within a cold storage, food processing, or industrial refrigeration environment.

Proven experience working with ammonia refrigeration systems.

Relevant Project Management qualification is advantageous.

Strong knowledge of building services, mechanical installations, and cold chain requirements.

Sound understanding of health and safety legislation and compliance practices.

Valid drivers license and willingness to travel nationally on a regular basis.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership and team coordination abilities.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• High level of attention to detail and problem‑solving abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Proficiency in MS Project, Excel, AutoCAD (advantageous), and other project tools.