Petroleum Engineering Project Manager Job Vacancy in George, South Africa – Oil & Gas

Job Description

Position: Petroleum Engineering Project Manager

Company: Shell South Africa

Location: George, South Africa

Experience: 8+ years in petroleum engineering project management

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Petroleum Engineering or related field

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Oil & Gas

Department: Engineering & Projects

Salary: SSP 800,000 – 1,200,000 per annum

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Shell South Africa is a leading integrated energy company with a strong presence in the South African market. As part of the global Shell group, the company operates across the entire oil and gas value chain, from exploration and production to refining, marketing, and renewable energy solutions. With a commitment to safety, sustainability, and innovation, Shell South Africa provides a dynamic environment for professionals seeking to make a meaningful impact in the energy sector. The company’s operations in the Western Cape region, including strategic projects near George, support national energy security while fostering local economic development. Candidates joining Shell will benefit from a culture that values diversity, continuous learning, and career progression, making it an attractive destination for top talent looking for rewarding South Africa Jobs.

Job Overview

The Petroleum Engineering Project Manager will lead complex upstream projects, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest technical standards. This role involves coordinating multidisciplinary teams, managing stakeholder relationships, and overseeing all phases of project execution from concept to commissioning. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in advancing Shell’s portfolio of oil and gas assets in South Africa, contributing to the company’s strategic objectives and supporting the broader goal of reliable energy supply. For more details, visit our career portal.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, execute, and control petroleum engineering projects, ensuring alignment with corporate goals and regulatory requirements.
• Lead cross‑functional teams including drilling, reservoir, facilities, and procurement to achieve project milestones.
• Develop and manage project budgets, schedules, and risk registers, providing regular updates to senior management.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and quality standards throughout the project lifecycle.
• Coordinate with external contractors, joint‑venture partners, and government agencies to secure permits and approvals.
• Implement best‑practice engineering solutions to optimize hydrocarbon recovery and operational efficiency.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and documentation for internal and external stakeholders.

Required Skills

• Strong leadership and team‑management capabilities with a proven track record of delivering large‑scale oil and gas projects.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills, with proficiency in project management software (e.g., Primavera, MS Project).
• In‑depth knowledge of drilling, completions, reservoir engineering, and production operations.
• Effective communication and negotiation skills, able to influence diverse stakeholder groups.
• Ability to work under pressure and make decisions in dynamic environments.
• Commitment to safety culture and environmental stewardship.

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in Petroleum Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related discipline is required. Advanced degrees (MSc or MBA) are advantageous but not mandatory.

Experience

Minimum of eight (8) years of progressive experience in petroleum engineering, with at least three (3) years in a project management role overseeing upstream projects. Experience within the South African oil and gas sector or similar emerging markets is highly preferred.

Salary

The compensation package ranges from SSP 800,000 to SSP 1,200,000 per annum, commensurate with experience and qualifications. The package includes performance‑based bonuses, pension contributions, and other statutory benefits.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical and dental coverage.
• Retirement savings plan with employer matching.
• Annual leave and paid sick days in line with South African labour law.
• Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.
• Opportunities for international assignments and career mobility within Shell.

Training

• Access to Shell’s global learning platforms and technical certification programs.
• Mentorship from senior engineering leaders.
• Regular safety and compliance workshops.
• Leadership development courses tailored for project managers.

Working Environment

The role is based in George, offering a modern office setting with easy access to field sites across the Western Cape. Shell promotes a collaborative, inclusive workplace where innovation is encouraged. Employees benefit from state‑of‑the‑art facilities, flexible working arrangements where applicable, and a supportive community focused on professional growth.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their application through the online portal on the Shell careers website. Ensure your CV highlights relevant project management achievements and technical expertise. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Shell South Africa is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. Join us and be part of a team that drives sustainable energy solutions across South Africa.