Upstream Operations Manager - Mahikeng Region

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary

Performance bonuses

Health coverage

Retirement plans

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Upstream Operations Manager to lead exploration and production activities in the Mahikeng region of the North West province. You will oversee teams of engineers, geoscientists, and field personnel to drive operational excellence and meet production targets.

The role requires a strong leadership presence, strategic planning, and deep knowledge of upstream oil and gas operations, with a focus on safety, efficiency, and profitability.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering or Mechanical Engineering (Master’s or MBA preferred).
• Minimum 12 years in upstream oil and gas operations, with at least 5 years in a management/supervisory role.
• Proven track record managing complex upstream projects and operations.
• Strong understanding of reservoir engineering, drilling, production ops, and facility management.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Financial management, budgeting, and cost control experience.
• Solid knowledge of HSE regulations and best practices in Oil & Gas.
• Ability to work effectively in the Mahikeng region and manage on-site operations.
• Strategic thinker with strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of upstream oil and gas exploration and production operations.
• Develop and execute strategic operational plans to meet production and financial targets.
• Manage budgets, resources, and capital expenditures for upstream activities.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of operational professionals.
• Implement best practices in operational efficiency, asset integrity, and risk management.
• Collaborate with subsurface, commercial, HSE to optimize business performance.
• Monitor operational performance, identify improvement areas, and implement corrective actions.
• Manage relationships with contractors and local communities.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Strategic thinking

Project management

Communication

HSE knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering or Mechanical Engineering

Master’s degree or MBA preferred

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent energy producer, is seeking a seasoned Upstream Operations Manager to lead and oversee their exploration and production activities in the Mahikeng region of the North West province. This leadership role is critical for ensuring the safe, efficient, and profitable operation of all upstream assets. You will be responsible for managing teams of engineers, geoscientists, and field personnel, driving operational excellence, and achieving production targets within the Oil & Gas sector. The position requires strong leadership, strategic planning, and a deep understanding of upstream operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of upstream oil and gas exploration and production operations.
• Develop and execute strategic operational plans to meet production and financial targets.
• Manage budgets, resources, and capital expenditures for upstream activities.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of operational professionals.
• Implement best practices in operational efficiency, asset integrity, and risk management.
• Collaborate with other departments (e.g., subsurface, commercial, HSE) to optimize overall business performance.
• Monitor operational performance, identify areas for improvement, and implement corrective actions.
• Manage relationships with key stakeholders, including contractors and local communities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field; Master’s degree or MBA preferred.
• Minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in upstream oil and gas operations, with at least 5 years in a management or supervisory role.
• Proven track record of successfully managing complex upstream projects and operations.
• Strong understanding of reservoir engineering, drilling, production operations, and facility management.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability in financial management, budgeting, and cost control.
• Sound knowledge of HSE regulations and best practices within the Oil & Gas industry.
• Ability to work effectively in the Mahikeng region and manage on-site operations.
• Strategic thinker with strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.

Benefits

• Highly competitive executive salary, performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including executive health coverage, retirement plans, and relocation assistance if applicable.
• This role presents a significant leadership opportunity within the Oil & Gas sector, with substantial impact on regional operations.
• You will have the autonomy to shape operational strategies and develop your team.
• Opportunities for professional development and advancement within a leading energy company are extensive.