Job Title: Construction Site Lead – Oil & Gas (Client-Side, Basra, Iraq)
Position Overview:
We are seeking a seasoned Construction Site Lead for a client-side secondment role in Basra, Iraq, overseeing critical oil and gas infrastructure projects. This role requires a 5/2 work cycle and involves managing contractor teams, ensuring compliance with HSE standards, and driving on-site execution for a major operating client. Ideal for a proactive leader adept at navigating SIMOPS environments and delivering client objectives under challenging conditions.
Key Responsibilities:
Client Representation: Act as the primary on-site liaison between the agency’s client and contractors, ensuring alignment with technical specifications, schedules, and safety protocols.
Contractor Oversight: Lead contractor teams in mechanical construction activities, including prefabrication, installation, and commissioning, ensuring adherence to method statements, permits, and quality standards.
Planning & Coordination: Drive pre-job planning, 5-week look-ahead schedules, and PTW (Permit to Work) processes. Collaborate with the client’s Site Superintendent to resolve bottlenecks and optimize workflows.
HSE & Compliance: Enforce strict adherence to TEEPRH and SIMOPS guidelines, conducting risk assessments and audits to mitigate safety/environmental risks.
Technical Leadership: Review contractor documentation (procedures, job cards), validate technical consistency, and supervise pre-commissioning activities to ensure seamless handover to operations.
Stakeholder Management: Interface with engineers, logistics teams, and suppliers to address construction challenges, material delays, and punch-list closeouts.
Reporting & Documentation: Deliver daily progress reports, track workforce productivity, and formalize handover dossiers with as-built documentation.
Problem Solving: Proactively identify risks, propose practical solutions, and step in to manage critical contractor activities if project timelines are at risk.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, or related field.
10+ years of experience in oil/gas construction, with expertise in mechanical systems, brownfield projects, and contractor supervision.
Proven track record in client-facing roles, managing multidisciplinary teams in high-risk, international environments.
In-depth knowledge of SIMOPS, TEEPRH standards, and HSE regulations.
Proficiency in construction software and tools; fluency in English (written/oral) is mandatory.
Strong leadership, negotiation, and conflict-resolution skills.
Preferred Skills:
Experience working in the Middle East, particularly Iraq.
Certification in NEBOSH, OSHA, or PMP.
Familiarity with commissioning processes and integrity management programs.
Arabic language skills or multicultural project experience.