Job Title: Construction Manager (Mechanical – Brownfield Refinery Projects)
Job Purpose
Lead and manage all on-site construction activities for mechanical, piping, civil, and E&I works in a live brownfield refinery environment. Ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality execution of compressor installations and associated systems in compliance with project specifications and client standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee day-to-day site construction activities, ensuring alignment with project schedule, priorities, and safety standards
- Manage and coordinate multi-discipline field teams (Mechanical, Piping, Civil, Electrical & Instrumentation)
- Lead brownfield execution strategy, including work in live units under strict SIMOPS conditions
- Plan and execute shutdown/turnaround activities, including 24/7 shift coordination and resource allocation
- Ensure strict adherence to approved method statements, ITPs, and client standards (SABIC / Aramco)
- Supervise mechanical equipment installation, including compressors, skids, piping systems, and tie-ins
- Coordinate critical piping works, hot taps, and tie-ins within operating refinery units
- Manage and oversee heavy lifting and rigging operations, including large-capacity cranes (e.g., 150T+)
- Ensure effective Permit to Work (PTW) compliance and safe execution in hazardous areas (including H₂S zones)
- Lead SIMOPS coordination with operations and other contractors to avoid conflicts and ensure safety
- Monitor contractor manpower, productivity, and performance, implementing corrective actions where required
- Track construction progress and report to project management with accurate updates and forecasts
- Drive quality control and assurance, ensuring works meet project specifications and inspection requirements
- Oversee mechanical completion, pre-commissioning, and handover to commissioning teams
- Interface with client representatives, consultants, and EPC stakeholders for approvals and coordination
Mandatory Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering (Civil may be considered with strong mechanical background)
- Minimum 15+ years of construction experience, with at least 10 years in KSA oil & gas sector
- Minimum 8+ years in refinery construction management, specifically in brownfield/live plant environments
- Proven experience working with SABIC, Aramco, or major EPC contractors
- Strong background in piping, mechanical installation, and refinery shutdown execution
- Hands-on experience in SIMOPS, PTW systems, and live plant coordination
- Certified in H2S Safety, with solid understanding of refinery safety protocols
- Demonstrated experience in heavy lifting and rigging operations
- Ability to manage fast-track and high-risk construction activities under tight deadlines
- Transferable Iqama and availability for immediate joining preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior experience with SASREF refinery projects
- Exposure to reciprocating compressor installation and commissioning
- NEBOSH, IOSH, or equivalent safety certification
- Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills
- Experience in brownfield project planning and constructability reviews
Candidate Profile (Highlight Summary)
Mechanical Engineer by qualification
Currently working as a Construction Manager in oil & gas/refinery projects
Strong site-driven profile, actively managing daily execution
Extensive brownfield refinery experience with focus on piping and mechanical works
Familiar with Aramco/SABIC standards and procedures
Proven ability to handle shutdowns, tie-ins, and live plant operations
Bachelor's Degree in Civil or Mechanical Engineering
15+ years construction experience with 10+ years in KSA oil & gas
8+ years refinery construction management in brownfield environment
Direct experience with SABIC/Aramco refinery operators or EPC contractors
Shutdown/turnaround execution in live refinery
PTW, SIMOPS, and H2S safety certification
Experience supervising mechanical installation and heavy rigging
Transferable Iqama
Preferred:
- SASREF-specific experience
- Reciprocating compressor installation exposure
- NEBOSH or equivalent safety certification
