A reputable engineering and construction company is seeking an experienced Site Manager to lead a critical waste heat boiler coil removal and replacement project at an oil refinery site in Milnerton, Cape Town. The ideal candidate must have extensive shutdown and turnaround experience within refinery or petrochemical environments, strong leadership capability, and a proven ability to manage safety, quality, and productivity under high-pressure conditions. A safety-driven mindset and excellent coordination skills are essential.

Responsibilities:

 • Take overall responsibility for day-to-day site operations during the refinery shutdown period.
 • Coordinate the removal of existing boiler tubes/coils and installation of new coils.
 • Manage fit-up, welding, NDT, PWHT (where applicable), reinstatement, and close-out activities.
 • Ensure all works are executed in accordance with approved drawings, specifications, procedures, and applicable codes.
 • Enforce strict compliance with refinery safety standards, permit-to-work systems, and company SHE policies.
 • Act as the Construction Regulation 8.1 Appointee and assume all associated legal duties.
 • Lead toolbox talks, Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs), and safety briefings.
 • Manage site supervisors, artisans, welders, riggers, and subcontractors.
 • Monitor productivity, manpower utilization, and adherence to shutdown schedules.
 • Liaise with client representatives, refinery operations, inspectors, and other contractors.
 • Prepare daily progress, manpower, and safety reports and support close-out documentation.

Requirements:

 • Trade qualification (Boilermaker / Mechanical) or Diploma/Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Construction Management.
 • Minimum 8–10 years’ experience in mechanical construction within oil & gas, refinery, or petrochemical environments.
 • Proven experience managing shutdown and turnaround projects.
 • Strong knowledge of welding, NDT, pressure equipment, and applicable codes (ASME, API, etc.).
 • Familiarity with refinery permit systems and shutdown execution practices.
 • Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.
 • Ability to work extended hours during shutdown periods, including day and night shifts.

Contact RPO Recruitment for your next career opportunity.

You can also visit the RPO Recruitment website: rporecruitment.us or email us your CV: manufacturing@rpo-recruit.za.com.
We will contact you telephonically in 3 days should you be suitable for this vacancy. If you are not suitable, we will put your CV on file and contact you regarding any future vacancies that arise.