Construction Projects Lead

ROLE PURPOSE

To lead and manage the execution of all engineering construction projects (electro-mechanical and civil) within the refinery, ensuring delivery within approved budget, timelines, and quality standards. The role ensures compliance with internal governance procedures, safety regulations, and industry best practices.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

Project Delivery

• Manage full project lifecycle from feasibility through to commissioning and handover
• Ensure all projects meet agreed scope, cost, quality, and time targets
• Interpret technical requirements and provide input into engineering design solutions
• Ensure compliance with internal stage gate processes and engineering standards

Planning & Resource Management

• Develop detailed project plans, schedules, and resource allocation strategies
• Ensure optimal utilization of manpower, equipment, and materials
• Monitor budget adherence and control project-related expenditure
• Identify risks early and implement mitigation strategies

Operational Oversight

• Supervise contractors and construction teams on-site
• Ensure adherence to technical specifications, drawings, and quality benchmarks
• Monitor daily site activities and resolve operational challenges promptly
• Conduct inspections and ensure successful project close-out

Stakeholder Management

• Liaise with internal stakeholders across operations, engineering, and management
• Engage with external suppliers, contractors, and consultants
• Provide regular progress updates, reports, and project documentation

People Management

• Lead and develop Graduate Engineers (Mechanical & Electrical)
• Drive performance, coaching, mentoring, and skills development
• Foster a collaborative, accountable, and safety-focused culture

SHEQ Compliance

• Enforce adherence to Health, Safety, Environmental, and Quality standards
• Conduct risk assessments and safety audits
• Ensure all personnel are trained and compliant with safety procedures

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS (KPIs)

• Project delivery within budget and timelines
• Resource utilization and efficiency
• Quality of project execution and minimal rework
• SHEQ compliance and safety performance
• Stakeholder satisfaction (internal and external)
• Accuracy and timeliness of reporting (including Capex)

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Qualifications

• Grade 12
• N3 and Trade Test in Engineering (Mechanical/Electrical) or
• National Diploma in Engineering
• Project Management qualification (essential)

Experience

• 15-20 years’ relevant engineering/construction experience
• Minimum 5 years in capital project management within an industrial/refinery environment

TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES

• Strong knowledge of:
  • Mechanical, Electrical, Civil & Structural Engineering
  • Instrumentation and plant operations
  • Project management methodologies
  • Maintenance systems and practices
• Ability to interpret technical drawings and specifications
• Proficiency in MS Office and ERP systems (e.g., SAP/JDE)

BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES

• Strong leadership and team management capability
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills
• Problem-solving and analytical thinking
• High attention to detail and quality focus
• Negotiation and stakeholder engagement skills
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple projects

FINANCIAL ACCOUNTABILITY

• Manage project budgets ranging from R500k to R2m
• Drive cost control, efficiency, and avoidance of rework
• Contribute to Capex planning and reporting

DECISION-MAKING

• Makes operational and technical decisions impacting project outcomes
• Evaluates risks and implements appropriate solutions
• Recommends improvements to systems, processes, and project execution strategies

DIRECT REPORTS

• Graduate Engineers (Mechanical & Electrical)

SUCCESS PROFILE

The ideal candidate is a seasoned construction/project leader with strong technical expertise and a proven ability to deliver complex engineering projects in a refinery or heavy industrial environment. They demonstrate strong leadership, sound judgment, and a commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.