Refinery Plant & Operations Manager (Gauteng)

Oliel Recruitment; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is seeking a candidate for a refinery operations leadership role in Johannesburg. The successful applicant will manage production, compliance, and staff performance to ensure efficient, safe operations. A degree in Engineering and significant refinery management experience are required. Key responsibilities include compliance with regulations, performance monitoring, and budget management. The role closes on 21 October 2025.

Qualifications

• 8-10 years’ refinery or process plant experience, including 5+ years in management.
• Strong knowledge of SHEQ systems, ISO standards, and environmental compliance.
• Proven leadership experience managing large-scale operations.

Responsibilities

• Ensure full compliance with SHEQ, ISO, and environmental legislation.
• Oversee all refinery processes from feedstock intake to product output.
• Implement preventive maintenance and reliability programs.
• Drive continuous improvement, cost reduction, and process optimization.

Skills

Strategic operational planning

Leadership and people development

Safety and environmental stewardship

Excellent problem-solving

Effective communication

Education

Degree in Chemical, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering

Job description

Role Overview

Responsible for leading and optimizing all refinery operations — including production, compliance, maintenance, and staff performance — to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality output in line with environmental, health, and safety standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure full compliance with SHEQ, ISO, and environmental legislation.
• Oversee all refinery processes from feedstock intake to product output.
• Monitor performance, efficiency, and quality across production lines.
• Implement preventive maintenance and reliability programs.
• Drive continuous improvement, cost reduction, and process optimization.
• Lead and develop operational teams to maintain a culture of safety and accountability.
• Manage budgets, resources, and inventory to achieve financial targets.
• Prepare operational reports and ensure accurate documentation for audits and compliance.

Qualifications & Experience

• Degree in Chemical, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering (or equivalent).
• 8–10 years’ refinery or process plant experience, including 5+ years in management.
• Strong knowledge of SHEQ systems, ISO standards, and environmental compliance.
• Proven leadership experience managing large-scale operations.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and decision-making skills.

Core Competencies

• Strategic operational planning
• Leadership and people development
• Technical refinery expertise
• Cost and performance management
• Safety and environmental stewardship
• Effective communication and teamwork
• Financial and analytical acumen

Closing Date: 21 October 2025.