Upstream Operations Manager

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

Performance bonuses

Benefits package (health, life, and/or

Disability insurance

Retirement plan

Leadership development programs

International assignments

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Upstream Operations Manager to oversee oil and gas production in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. Lead a diverse team, manage budgets, ensure regulatory compliance, and drive continuous improvement across all upstream activities.

The role requires 12+ years in upstream oil and gas with at least 5 years in a leadership position, plus a degree in Petroleum/Mechanical/Chemical engineering. Based at Richards Bay facilities with a strong presence on site.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Petroleum, Mechanical or Chemical) or equivalent.
• Minimum of 12 years in upstream oil and gas with at least 5 years in leadership.
• Proven track record in managing complex upstream operations and field development.

Responsibilities

• Manage all day-to-day upstream operations including drilling, completions, production and maintenance.
• Ensure safe, reliable operations in line with environmental regulations and policies.
• Develop and implement operational plans and budgets, monitor performance against targets.
• Lead, mentor and develop a high-performing team of engineers and field personnel.
• Oversee maintenance and integrity of production facilities and equipment.
• Optimize production levels and resource utilization.
• Manage relationships with government agencies, contractors and service providers.
• Implement best practices and new technologies to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
• Prepare operational reports and present updates to senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Regulatory compliance

Communication

Team management

Decision making under pressure

Education

Engineering degree (Petroleum/Mechanical/Chemical)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the energy sector, is seeking an experienced and results-driven Upstream Operations Manager to oversee their operations in the Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal region. This senior leadership position is responsible for the safe, efficient, and cost-effective execution of all upstream oil and gas production activities. You will lead a diverse team, manage operational budgets, ensure regulatory compliance, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. The successful candidate will possess a strong background in operational management, a deep understanding of upstream processes, and a proven ability to achieve strategic objectives in a challenging environment. This role requires a strong presence at our Richards Bay facilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all day-to-day upstream operations, including drilling, completions, production, and maintenance activities.


• Ensure operations are conducted safely, reliably, and in compliance with all environmental regulations and company policies.


• Develop and implement operational plans and budgets, monitoring performance against targets.


• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of engineers, supervisors, and field personnel.


• Oversee the maintenance and integrity of all production facilities and equipment.


• Optimize production levels and ensure efficient resource utilization.


• Manage relationships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, contractors, and service providers.


• Implement best practices and new technologies to improve operational efficiency and reduce costs.


• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide feedback to team members.


• Prepare operational reports and present performance updates to senior management.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Petroleum, Mechanical, or Chemical preferred) or equivalent experience.


• Minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in the upstream oil and gas industry, with at least 5 years in a leadership or management role.


• Proven track record in managing complex upstream operations, including field development and production optimization.


• In-depth knowledge of drilling, completions, production engineering, and asset integrity.


• Strong understanding of safety regulations, environmental compliance, and risk management in the O&G sector.


• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.


• Demonstrated ability in financial management, budgeting, and cost control.


• Experience with project management and contract negotiation.


• Ability to work effectively under pressure and make sound decisions in a dynamic environment.


• Familiarity with the geological and operational context of the KwaZulu-Natal region is advantageous.

Benefits

Our client provides a highly attractive compensation package, including a competitive base salary, significant performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits program covering health, life, and disability insurance, as well as a robust retirement plan. We invest in our employees' growth through continuous training, leadership development programs, and opportunities for international assignments. This role is based in the key industrial hub of Richards Bay , offering a vibrant coastal lifestyle and excellent amenities. Join us to make a substantial impact on the energy industry.