Senior Production Engineer - Artificial Lift Optimization

Placements24; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa seeks a Senior Production Engineer for our client in Pretoria, Gauteng. The role focuses on maximizing hydrocarbon recovery through advanced production system design, operation, and optimization, with emphasis on artificial lift and field performance.

You will analyze production data, identify bottlenecks, and collaborate with reservoir engineers, geologists and operations teams to deliver reliable, cost-effective solutions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum or Mechanical Engineering.
• 7+ years of relevant production engineering experience with artificial lift.
• Proficiency with PROSPER, GAP, OFM and fluid flow principles.

Responsibilities

• Analyze production data to diagnose performance issues and optimize operations.
• Design, install, and manage artificial lift systems (ESP, rod pump, gas lift).
• Perform nodal analysis and production system modeling for flow optimization.
• Conduct post-installation reviews of artificial lift interventions.
• Develop EOR strategies for mature fields.
• Collaborate with drilling and completion teams on well design and lift selection.
• Prepare technical reports, procedures, and economic justifications.
• Mentor junior engineers and share best practices within the team.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Independent work

Education

Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

PROSPER

GAP

OFM

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent force in the Oil & Gas sector, is seeking a dedicated Senior Production Engineer to join their esteemed operations in Pretoria, Gauteng. This role is essential for maximizing hydrocarbon recovery from existing fields through advanced production system design, operation, and optimization, with a strong focus on artificial lift techniques. You will analyze production data, identify bottlenecks, and implement solutions to enhance well performance and field output. The position requires close collaboration with reservoir engineers, geologists, and operations personnel. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute significantly to the operational efficiency of a major energy producer in Pretoria.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze well and facility production data to diagnose performance issues and identify optimization opportunities.
• Design, implement, and manage artificial lift systems (e.g., ESPs, rod pumps, gas lift).
• Perform nodal analysis and production system modeling to optimize flow assurance and throughput.
• Conduct post-job analysis for artificial lift installations and interventions.
• Develop and implement strategies for enhanced oil recovery (EOR) in mature fields.
• Collaborate with drilling and completion teams on well design and artificial lift selection.
• Prepare technical reports, operational procedures, and economic justifications for proposed projects.
• Provide technical support and mentorship to junior production engineers in Pretoria, Gauteng.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering or Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in production engineering, specifically focusing on artificial lift.
• Proven expertise in designing, troubleshooting, and optimizing various artificial lift systems.
• Proficiency with production engineering software (e.g., PROSPER, GAP, OFM).
• Strong understanding of fluid flow principles, thermodynamics, and oil & gas production facilities.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities for optimizing production in Pretoria.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for collaboration across teams.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a dynamic team in the Gauteng region.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid, a pension fund, and annual performance bonuses.
• Opportunities for further training and development, including advanced courses in artificial lift technology, are provided. This role offers significant career advancement prospects within a leading Oil & Gas company. Join our client’s committed team in Pretoria and make a tangible impact on production efficiency.