Project Manager - Port Development

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid and retirement fund

Hybrid work arrangement

Travel allowances

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Project Manager to lead port development initiatives in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. You will plan, execute, and close complex maritime infrastructure projects, coordinating with engineers, contractors, and regulators to ensure on-time, on-budget delivery.

The role requires a Civil/Marine/Mechanical engineering background and at least 6 years of PM experience in port or large-scale infrastructure. Hybrid work arrangement offered.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Civil, Marine, Mechanical) or related field.
• Minimum 6 years in project management, with port/infrastructure focus.
• Experience with budgeting, scheduling, and regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities

• Oversee full project lifecycle for port development projects (dredging, berth construction, upgrades).
• Develop detailed project plans: scope, objectives, deliverables, timelines, budgets.
• Coordinate with engineering teams, contractors, and suppliers to meet specs and quality.
• Monitor progress, identify risks, and implement mitigation strategies.
• Facilitate clear communication among stakeholders including regulators and community reps.
• Ensure compliance with maritime regulations, environmental standards, and safety protocols.
• Manage project finances, track expenditures, and report on budgets.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Negotiation

Problem solving

Stakeholder management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field

Tools

MS Project

Primavera

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key player in maritime infrastructure, is seeking a dedicated Project Manager to oversee critical port development initiatives. This role is based in the strategic port city of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . You will be responsible for the planning, execution, and completion of diverse projects aimed at enhancing port facilities and operational efficiency. This position demands strong leadership, meticulous planning, and effective stakeholder engagement, particularly with maritime authorities, contractors, and internal teams. The hybrid work arrangement allows for flexibility, combining essential on‑site presence for operational oversight with remote work for strategic planning and reporting. This is an excellent opportunity to make a significant impact on regional economic development.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the full project lifecycle for port development projects, including dredging, berth construction, and terminal upgrades.
• Develop detailed project plans, defining scope, objectives, deliverables, timelines, and budgets.
• Coordinate with engineering teams, contractors, and suppliers to ensure project execution aligns with technical specifications and quality standards.
• Monitor project progress, identify potential risks and challenges, and implement proactive mitigation strategies.
• Facilitate clear and consistent communication among all project stakeholders, including regulatory bodies and community representatives.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant maritime regulations, environmental standards, and safety protocols.
• Manage project finances, track expenditures, and report on budget performance regularly.
• Conduct post-project reviews to capture lessons learned and inform future initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Civil, Marine, Mechanical), Maritime Studies, or a related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of project management experience, with a strong focus on port, maritime, or large‑scale infrastructure projects.
• Demonstrated experience in managing complex projects with significant budgets.
• Knowledge of port operations, maritime engineering, and relevant regulatory frameworks.
• Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and problem‑solving skills.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera).
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, requiring both on‑site presence in Richards Bay, KwaZulu‑Natal and remote work capabilities.
• Strong understanding of environmental impact assessments and mitigation strategies in coastal development.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary of R .
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development in the maritime sector.
• Exposure to high‑profile projects with significant regional impact in Richards Bay, KwaZulu‑Natal .
• Hybrid working arrangement promoting work‑life balance.
• Allowance for travel as required for project oversight.