About the position
PURPOSE OF POSITION
The Site Manager is responsible for the overall planning, coordination, execution, and control of all site activities related to the removal of existing waste heat boiler coils and the installation of new coils during a refinery shutdown. The role ensures that all work is executed safely, in compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act, Construction Regulations, applicable codes and standards, contractual requirements, and within the approved shutdown schedule.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
SITE EXECUTION & COORDINATION
- Overall responsibility for day-to-day site operations during the shutdown period.
- Coordinate removal of existing boiler tubes/coils and installation of new coils.
- Manage fit-up, welding, NDT, PWHT (where applicable), reinstatement and close-out activities.
- Coordinate with refinery operations, maintenance teams, inspectors, and other contractors.
- Ensure works are executed in accordance with approved drawings, specifications, and procedures.
- Identify and manage site constraints affecting the shutdown critical path.
SAFETY, HEALTH & ENVIRONMENTAL (SHE)
- Enforce strict compliance with refinery safety standards, permit-to-work systems, and company SHE policies.
- Ensure full compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act 85 of 1993) and Construction Regulations.
- Be formally appointed as the Construction Regulation 8.1 Appointee and assume all associated legal duties.
- Ensure risk assessments, method statements, and safe work procedures are developed, approved, and implemented.
- Ensure all personnel are properly inducted, competent, and authorized for refinery work.
- Lead daily toolbox talks, Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs), and safety briefings.
- Ensure effective implementation of hot work, confined space, working at height, and LOTO controls.
- Stop work where unsafe acts or conditions exist and ensure corrective actions are implemented.
- Liaise with Client and refinery SHE representatives to maintain compliance.
QUALITY CONTROL & COMPLIANCE
- Ensure compliance with approved procedures, drawings, specifications, and applicable codes (ASME, API, etc.).
- Ensure all welding is performed in accordance with approved WPS's and welder qualifications.
- Coordinate NDT activities, repairs, re-inspections, and acceptance.
- Ensure proper control and completion of quality records for the project data book.
- Manage punch lists and final acceptance
SCHEDULE & PRODUCTIVITY MANAGEMENT
- Plan and manage daily and short-interval work plans aligned with the shutdown program.
- Monitor productivity and manpower utilization.
- Identify schedule risks and escalate issues timeously.
- Ensure completion of works within the shutdown window.
RESOURCE & SUBCONTRACTOR MANAGEMENT
- Manage site supervisors, artisans, welders, riggers, and subcontractors.
- Ensure availability of tools, equipment, materials, and consumables.
- Verify subcontractor compliance with safety, quality, and contractual requirements.
CLIENT & STAKEHOLDER INTERFACE
- Act as the primary site interface with Client and refinery representatives.
- Attend daily shutdown coordination and progress meetings.
- Communicate progress, risks, and changes clearly and professionally.
REPORTING & DOCUMENTATION
- Prepare daily progress, manpower, and safety reports.
- Track variations, delays, and deviations.
- Support claims and close-out documentation.
- Ensure proper handover of completed works.
Desired Skills:
- Site Management
- Safety Management
- Managing staff
Desired Qualification Level:
About The Employer:
Our client based in Cape Town is looking to acquire an experienced Site Manager for one of their Sites in Cape Town. The successful candidate should possesses the following skills and experience:
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
- Minimum 8-10 years' experience in mechanical construction within oil & gas, refinery, or petrochemical environments.
- Proven experience managing shutdown / turnaround projects.
- Experience with pressure equipment, boilers, heat exchangers, or piping systems.
TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES
- Strong understanding of welding, NDT, and pressure equipment codes.
- Familiarity with refinery permit systems and shutdown execution practices.
- Ability to interpret drawings, specifications, and procedures.
PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES
- Strong leadership and decision-making ability.
- Safety-driven mindset.
- Excellent communication and coordination skills.
- Ability to work extended hours during shutdown periods.
EDUCATION
Trade qualification (Boilermaker / Mechanical) or Diploma/Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Construction Management.
