Senior Engineer at Astron Energy (Pty) Ltd.

Job Summary

The role is charged with the commercial translation of the corporate long range strategy to the site specific long range facilities plan and strategy, informed by market trends and operating constraints to drive value. Key partnerships exist with supply & trading and strategy. This role is responsible for early stage project development through selection of a preferred alternatives and partners with the legal and procurement organization.

The candidate will be self-directed, can work without supervision and can collaborate across the entire business. Candidates must be motivated, hands-on, self-starting, action-centered and flexible. They will take a ‘business needs perspective. Strong management, coordination and communication skills are required. The candidate must be able to work on multiple levels. The candidate is accountable for delivery of successful business outcomes. The incumbent will be able to work effectively in both a corporate and refinery environment.

Qualifications

• Chemical Engineering bachelor degree or higher from a recognized institution. A minimum of 15 years of engineering or oil and gas industry-related experience.
• In addition, MBA will be advantageous.
• Specific knowledge of refinery process units, work processes and people is an advantage.
• Demonstrated Process Engineering skills including an understanding of refining process units, technology and refinery economic drivers.
• Sound understanding of the “Stage-Gate” project delivery systems

Skills

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills are essential.
• Ability to challenge historic norms, beliefs and assumptions. Ability to facilitate and communicate with internal and external stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability of early stage project management skills including decision & economic analysis, and an understanding of factors impacting project value, costs and schedules.
• The ability to think strategically and convert this information into specific identifiable opportunities and potential solutions.
• Technical strength, attention to detail and ability to challenge
• Commercially and contractually astute
• Exceptionally strong coordination, project management and interface management skills 

Resposibilities

• Initiate and lead studies, conceptual design and economic analysis of potential opportunities for Astron Energy Cape Town refinery
• Identify realistic and doable options for improved competitive performance
• Develop economic and decision analysis models on complex strategic capital projects.
• Support and at times lead long range strategic studies as well as shorter term opportunities, partnering with the Supply, Strategy, and project organizations. Ensure these items are consistent with short and long term strategic plans, accounting for actions to improve aspects of Astron’sperformance.
• Ensure the development and execution of the of plans to support improved competitive performance and a market place view.
• Act as project Developmental Manager for potential projects in early investment stages up to stage gate 2 and 3a, primarily for commercial projects.
• Seek out opportunities to bring elements of pay-out (return on investment) to required replacement projects.
• Develop a strong interface between refinery and head office. Ensure healthy relationships and cooperation is maintained across this interface.
• Provide and deliver C-suite level reports and Board presentations as required
• Challenge status quo without emotional attachment applying logical decision making processes.
• Leverage industry benchmarks to define what “Good” looks like.
• Identify Key Constraints: Close competitive gaps, linking key operating constraints to opportunity value.