Upstream Operations Manager

Placements24; Benoni; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa is seeking an Upstream Operations Manager to lead drilling, completions and production operations near Benoni, Gauteng. The role combines on-site oversight with remote strategic planning in a hybrid work model.

You will manage a team of engineers and field staff, drive safety, budgets and performance improvements, and ensure regulatory compliance while coordinating with contractors and service providers.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in upstream oil and gas operations, with at least 3 years in a management or supervisory role.
• Proven track record in drilling, completion, and production operations.
• Strong understanding of reservoir management, production engineering, and facility operations.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to balance site visits with remote management in a hybrid environment.
• Experience with budget management and cost control.
• Strong commitment to safety, environmental protection and operational excellence.

Responsibilities

• Oversee upstream oil and gas operations, ensuring safe and efficient execution.
• Develop and implement operational plans and budgets to meet production targets and cost objectives.
• Lead and mentor a team of operations engineers, field supervisors, and field personnel.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
• Monitor performance, identify improvements, and implement corrective actions.
• Manage relationships with third‑party service providers and contractors.
• Oversee drilling, workover, and completion programs.
• Ensure production management and facility uptime.
• Contribute to strategic planning and decision-making for upstream assets.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

HSE awareness

Communication

Team management

Strategic planning

Education

Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, an established energy exploration and production company, is seeking a dynamic and results-oriented Upstream Operations Manager to lead their operational activities near Benoni, Gauteng . This position operates under a hybrid work model, offering a blend of essential on-site oversight and remote strategic planning. The manager will be responsible for the safe, efficient, and cost-effective execution of all upstream operations, including drilling, completions, and production. This is a key leadership role within the Oil & Gas industry , requiring strong technical acumen, excellent people management skills, and a commitment to operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Oversee and manage all aspects of upstream oil and gas operations, ensuring safe and efficient execution. Develop and implement operational plans and budgets, meeting production targets and cost objectives. Lead and mentor a team of operations engineers, field supervisors, and field personnel. Ensure compliance with all health, safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements. Monitor operational performance, identify areas for improvement, and implement corrective actions. Manage relationships with third-party service providers and contractors. Oversee the execution of drilling, workover, and completion programs. Ensure effective production management and facility uptime. Implement best practices in operational integrity and asset management. Contribute to the strategic planning and decision‑making processes for upstream assets.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field. Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in upstream oil and gas operations, with at least 3 years in a management or supervisory role. Proven track of successfully managing drilling, completion, and production operations. Strong understanding of reservoir management, production engineering, and facility operations. Demonstrated leadership and team management skills. Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills. Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing site visits with remote management responsibilities. Experience with budget management and cost control. Strong commitment to safety, environmental protection, and operational excellence. Familiarity with relevant industry standards and best practices.

Benefits

This hybrid role offers a highly competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement plan, and paid time off. Our client supports professional development and offers opportunities for career advancement. You will have significant impact on the company's operational success in the Gauteng region and the broader Oil & Gas industry .