CENTRAL ENERGY FUND (CEF) VACANCIES

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ENGINEERING AND ASSET INTEGRITY MANAGER
Durban, South Africa
 
INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL VACANCY: ENGINEERING AND ASSET INTERGRITY MANAGER
CEF is a Schedule 2 state owned diversified energy company reporting to the Department of Mineral & Petroleum Resources. The Mandate of CEF is to contribute to the security of energy supply of South Africa and the Region through exploration, acquisition, development, marketing and strategic partnership. It is derived from the CEF Act (No 38 of 1977) and the Ministerial directives issued thereafter.
 
JOB PURPOSE:
The purpose of the Engineering and Asset Integrity Manager is to ensure the sustainable management and integrity of all refinery assets by overseeing engineering teams and programs that uphold safety, reliability, regulatory compliance, and cost efficiency across static and rotating equipment, piping, and structural components.
 
REQUIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Honours Degree (NQF 8) BEng/BTech in Mechanical, Chemical, Metallurgical or equivalent qualification.
• A minimum of 5 years’ experience in management of which 3 years must be at senior management managing large, public-sector infrastructure or industrial assets.
• Proven track record of working in the refinery or petrochemical plant engineering and asset integrity environments.
• ECSA registration or equivalent is strongly preferred.
• Masters’ Degree (NQF 9) in BEng/BTech in Mechanical, Chemical, Metallurgical will serve as an added advantage.

 
DESIRED ADDITIONAL SKILLS/ COMPETENCIES:

• In- depth understanding of refinery processes, plant equipment, corrosion mechanisms, degradation modes, and mechanical/process engineering principles.
• Proficient in failure modes and risk-based inspection techniques.
• Adherence to engineering codes
• Knowledgeable in national and industry regulations (OHSA, NEMA, SANS, pressure equipment regulations).
• Strong understanding of environmental, health, and safety compliance frameworks
• Capable of managing and developing diverse engineering teams in a complex, unionized, or government-regulated environment.
• Experienced in asset integrity management, long-term asset integrity planning, operational risk management, and root cause analysis/troubleshooting
• Skilled in CAPEX/OPEX planning, project execution, cost control, departmental budgeting, and supplier/service provider management
• Experienced on asset lifecycle cost optimization
• Workforce planning and capability development skills
• Composed and factual decision maker
• Highly assertive and competitive
• Solution-orientated and results-focused.

 
KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS:
Asset Integrity Management

• Develop, implement, and continuously improve the refinery's Asset Integrity Management System (AIMS).
• Ensure systematic inspection, monitoring, and risk assessment of refinery assets such as pressure vessels, pipelines, storage tanks, heat exchangers, and rotating equipment.
• Implement and manage RBI (Risk-Based Inspection), corrosion management, and condition monitoring programs.
• Lead Fitness-for-Service (FFS) assessments, failure investigations, and develop preventive and corrective action plans.
• Ensure compliance with applicable codes (API, ASME, NBIC) and national legislation (e.g., refinery safety acts, environmental laws).
• Develop and monitor KPIs related to asset health, downtime, inspection backlog, equipment failure rate, and maintenance effectiveness.
• Drive the implementation of continuous improvement initiatives using RCA, FMEA, and RCM methodologies.
• Promote digitisation of asset integrity data through CMMS and digital twins (where applicable).

Strategic Leadership & Governance

• Lead multi-disciplinary teams of engineers.
• Oversee design reviews, plant modifications, engineering studies, and the application of technical standards.
• Develop policies, procedures, and budgets in line with corporate strategy.
• Enforce engineering governance through technical approval workflows, design verification, and change management.
• Provide engineering assurance for turnaround planning, revamp projects, and asset upgrades.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives in emergency management through innovation and benchmarking against global standards.

Project Management

• Manage capital and operational projects related to asset rejuvenation, modernization, and safety improvements.
• Coordinate with procurement, finance, and public sector oversight bodies to ensure transparent and compliant project execution.
• Ensure cost control, timely completion, and alignment with the refinery’s strategic maintenance and integrity roadmap.

Regulatory and Public Sector Compliance

• Serve as the technical lead for external audits and inspections from regulatory agencies and statutory bodies.
• Ensure full compliance with environmental, health, and safety legislation, refinery licensing conditions, and public sector procurement guidelines.
• Prepare and submit reports required for compliance with public sector performance frameworks and national oil & gas regulatory authorities.

Performance Monitoring and Continuous Improvement

• Ensure that all projects and construction activities are continuously evaluated for effectiveness, efficiency, and alignment with long-term organizational goals.
• Identify opportunities for optimization, reducing costs, improving quality, and ensuring that lessons learned are captured and applied to future projects.

Resource Management

• Plan, allocate, and manage departmental resources to ensure effective delivery of operational objectives. This includes developing annual plans and budgets aligned with strategic priorities, monitoring expenditure, and ensuring cost-effective use of funds.
• Oversee human resource management within the department, including workforce planning, performance management, and staff development.
• Manage procurement processes by identifying service provider needs, sourcing suppliers in line with procurement policies, and overseeing the quality, cost, and contractual compliance of goods and services delivered.

Stakeholder engagement

• Engage with internal stakeholders such as Operations, SHEQ, Projects, Maintenance, Finance, and HR to align asset integrity initiatives with operational needs and strategic goals.
• Collaborate with procurement and supply chain teams to source and manage external service providers, ensuring delivery of high-quality, compliant, and cost-effective engineering solutions.
• Liaise with external regulatory bodies (e.g., Department of Labour, NERSA, DWS) to ensure compliance with engineering standards, environmental laws, pressure vessel regulations, and safety legislation.
• Represent the refinery during technical audits and inspections, providing required documentation, explanations, and evidence of compliance.
• Communicate with OEMs, consultants, and contractors to ensure technical specifications, scope clarity, and effective delivery of engineering and maintenance projects.
• Report to and advise senior management, including the Head of Refinery Operations, on the integrity status of assets, associated risks, and recommended interventions.
• Participate in forums and industry bodies relevant to engineering and asset integrity to benchmark practices and stay current with evolving standards.

 
Closing Date:  04 February 2026
 
NOTE: The successful candidate/s for the advertised position/s will be required to undergo personnel suitability checks, which includes, criminal records, citizenship, financial checks, qualifications and previous employment (Reference checks). It is the responsibility of the applicant to make sure that foreign qualifications are evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority and the evaluation certificate is attached to the application on submission. If you do not hear from the CEF SOC three months after the closing date of the advertisement, consider your application unsuccessful.  CEF SOC reserves the right to not fill this position. CEF SOC is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer, and it is committed to the achievement and maintenance of diversity and equity in employment, especially in respect of race, gender and disability. This position will be filled in accordance with the CEF SOC Employment Equity Plan. Appointment at the Refinery is subject to the successful completion of a pre-employment medical examination".
 
PLEASE APPLY HERE
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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OUTSIDE BATTERY LIMITS (OBL) MANAGER
Durban, South Africa
 
 
INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL VACANCY: OUTSIDE BATTERY LIMITS (OBL) MANAGER
CEF is a Schedule 2 state owned diversified energy company reporting to the Department of Mineral & Petroleum Resources. The Mandate of CEF is to contribute to the security of energy supply of South Africa and the Region through exploration, acquisition, development, marketing and strategic partnership. It is derived from the CEF Act (No 38 of 1977) and the Ministerial directives issued thereafter.
 
JOB PURPOSE:
The purpose of the Outside Battery Limits (OBL) Manager is to lead and oversee all Outside Battery Limits (OBL) operations at the SANPC Refinery, across SBM (Single Buoy Mooring), IVT (Inland Vessel Terminal), Pipelines, NATCOS facilities, Utilities, and on-site Property & Facilities. The role ensures safe, efficient, reliable and compliant functioning of all offsite logistics interfaces, product movements, marine operations, storage networks, pipeline integrity, and utility supply critical to refinery throughput. The OBL Manager provides strategic direction, operational oversight, and cross-functional coordination to ensure that OBL systems, third-party interfaces and infrastructure operate seamlessly to support continuous refinery production and national petroleum supply.
 
REQUIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree (NQF 7) in Mechanical, Chemical, Industrial, or Petroleum Engineering or equivalent qualification.
• A minimum of 5 years in management required of which 1-3 years is in a senior management position advantageous
• Oil, gas, petroleum or petrochemical experience, with strong offsite operations exposure desirable
• GCC Factories or Marine Engineering qualification will serve as an added advantage.
• SAMTRAC / NEBOSH or equivalent SHE qualification will serve as an added advantage.
• Honours’ degree (NQF 8) in Mechanical, Chemical, Industrial, or Petroleum Engineering will serve as an added advantage.

 
DESIRED ADDITIONAL SKILLS/ COMPETENCIES:

• In-depth understanding of refinery processes, plant equipment, corrosion mechanisms, and degradation modes, SBM & marine terminal operations
• IVT / terminal loading & offloading operations
• Pipeline operations, leak detection & integrity management
• Knowledge of NATCOS systems, Utilities generation & distribution
• Knowledge of Facilities & infrastructure maintenance, Marine safety (ISGOTT, OCIMF, ISPS), Environmental & spill prevention compliance
• Understanding of national and industry regulations (OHSA, NEMA, SANS, pressure equipment regulations)
• SAP PM/MM; CMMS • Project & contractor management

 
KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS:
SBM, IVT & Offloading/Loading Interface Management

• Plan and manage tanker berthing, mooring and pumping schedules in collaboration with marine stakeholders, port authorities and logistics teams.
• Apply ISGOTT/OCIMF procedures and site standards, including pre-loading meetings, vessel checks and toolbox talks.
• Monitor transfer rates, line pressures, tank levels and alarms in real time via control systems and field verifications.
• Lead daily coordination with the control room, marine service providers and NATCOS interfaces to align product receipts and dispatches.

Pipeline Operations & NATCOS Network Oversight  

• Implement and monitor pipeline operating procedures including pressure management, pigging, and leak detection.
• Coordinate NATCOS and other network storage/transfer schedules to balance inventory and product flows.
• Ensure statutory inspections, integrity assessments and maintenance activities are planned and executed on time.
• Use SCADA/monitoring data, field inspections and reports to identify anomalies and trigger corrective actions

Utilities Operations & Supply Continuity

• Lead utilities production planning for steam, water, nitrogen, power, fuel gas and cooling based on refinery demand forecasts.
• Monitor key parameters (pressures, flows, quality, consumption) and adjust operating modes to maintain stability.
• Coordinate maintenance windows and redundancy plan with Maintenance and Engineering to protect supply.
• Identify and implement energy and water optimisation

Property & Facilities Management

• Develop and manage annual facilities and property maintenance plans for buildings, roads, access systems and supporting infrastructure.
• Oversee contracts and service-level agreements for cleaning, landscaping, security-related infrastructure and other facility services.
• Conduct regular inspections and audits of site facilities to identify safety, compliance and reliability gaps.
• Plan and oversee minor projects, refurbishments and upgrades to maintain a safe and functional work environment.

Safety, Environmental & Regulatory Compliance

• Embed safety, health and environmental standards in all OBL procedures, work instructions and contractor packs.
• Lead and participate in risk assessments, HAZOPs, incident investigations and audits for OBL areas.
• Track and report SHE performance indicators, and drive close-out of corrective and preventive actions
• Coordinate emergency preparedness drills, spill simulations and response readiness with relevant teams.

Asset Integrity & Turnaround Support

• Develop and oversee asset integrity plans for SBM, IVT, pipelines, tanks, utilities and facilities.
• Ensure timely execution of inspections, thickness measurements, pressure tests and integrity assessments.
• Participate in turnaround/shutdown planning to define OBL scope, pre-work, resource needs and risk controls.
• Review inspection findings and implement risk-based maintenance or replacement strategies.

Stakeholder & Supply Chain Interface Management

• Attend and contribute to refinery production, planning and logistics meetings representing OBL operations.
• Align vessel schedules, pipeline transfers and NATCOS operations with national supply chain plans.
• Maintain strong working relationships with internal stakeholders (IBL operations, Maintenance, HSE, Engineering, Supply Chain) and external partners.
• Provide clear and timely communication of OBL risks, constraints and required decisions to leadership.

People Leadership & Performance Management

• Set clear objectives, standards and role expectations for the SBM & IVT Interface Officer and Property & Facilities Manager.
• Conduct regular one-on-ones, performance reviews and development discussions with direct reports.
• Identify skills gaps and facilitate training, coaching and exposure opportunities for OBL teams.
• Reinforce a culture of safety, accountability, teamwork and continuous improvement

 
 
Closing Date:   04 February 2026
 
NOTE: The successful candidate/s for the advertised position/s will be required to undergo personnel suitability checks, which includes, criminal records, citizenship, financial checks, qualifications and previous employment (Reference checks). It is the responsibility of the applicant to make sure that foreign qualifications are evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority, and the evaluation certificate is attached to the application on submission. If you do not hear from the CEF SOC three months after the closing date of the advertisement, consider your application unsuccessful.  CEF SOC reserves the right not to fill this position. CEF SOC is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer, and it is committed to the achievement and maintenance of diversity and equity in employment, especially in respect of race, gender and disability. This position will be filled in accordance with the CEF SOC Employment Equity Plan. Appointment at the Refinery is subject to the successful completion of a pre-employment medical examination".
 
PLEASE APPLY HERE
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

COMMODITY PLANNING, DISTRIBUTION AND OPTIMIZATION MANAGER
Durban, South Africa
 
INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL VACANCY: COMMODITY PLANNING, DISTRIBUTION AND OPTIMIZATION MANAGER. 
CEF is a Schedule 2 state owned diversified energy company reporting to the Department of Mineral & Petroleum Resources. The Mandate of CEF is to contribute to the security of energy supply of South Africa and the Region through exploration, acquisition, development, marketing and strategic partnership. It is derived from the CEF Act (No 38 of 1977) and the Ministerial directives issued thereafter.
 
JOB PURPOSE:
To manage the end-to-end planning, distribution, and optimization of crude oil and refined product flows, ensuring efficient, compliant, and cost-effective operations across the supply and logistics value chain. The role contributes to secure commodity availability, optimized inventory levels, and effective coordination between refinery operations, logistics partners, and external stakeholders.
 
REQUIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Honours degree (NQF 8) in Engineering / Logistics/ Energy Economics or related field.
• Minimum of 8 years’ experience in commodity trading specifically in Petrochemical products.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in management, of which 3 years must be Senior Management in Commodity trading.
• Experience in Supply chain, commodity logistics or refinery planning
• Experience in managing public sector projects or working in a state-owned entity will be advantageous.
• Master’s degree (NQF 9) in Engineering / Logistics/ Energy Economics or related field will serve as an added advantage.

 
DESIRED ADDITIONAL SKILLS/ COMPETENCIES:

• Strong understanding of the petroleum industry commodity markets and national distribution infrastructure,
• Experience in the public sector or regulated energy environment is advantageous
• Regulatory knowledge in petroleum sector
• Knowledge of bulk logistics and storage systems
• Knowledge of South African legislation relating to SHEQ, Public Finance Management Act, Supply planning and execution.
• Negotiation skills, Strategic thinking skills and Risk Management skills
• Communication skills, Interpersonal skills and Critical reasoning skills
• Systems thinking skills, financial acumen and Presentation skills
• Initiative and Results orientation
• Empowering leadership skills, Resilience & Ethical conduct
• Operational awareness and Collaboration

 
KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS:
Commodity planning & Scheduling

• Prepare medium- and short-term commodity plans aligned with supply contracts, demand forecasts, and refinery production schedules.
• Coordinate crude oil intake planning and refined product dispatch to minimize operational disruptions
• Direct and participate in market and commodity analysis.
• Develop and maintain new business opportunities and sustainable partnerships to ensure maximum growth and profitability of the business unit.
• Ensure business unit optimally trades quality products on time and within budget to create maximum economic value.

Distribution management

• Oversee entire fulfilment process, from order placement to delivery
• Ensure timely and efficient supply of products to customers, manage both coastal and inland by coordinating the distribution processes, transportation and inventory
• Coordinate transport and distribution activities across modes (pipeline, road, rail, sea) to meet customer and depot demand and ensure product delivery is efficient and cost-effective.
• Liaise with logistics service providers and national infrastructure entities (e.g., Transnet, port authorities).
• Manage logistics activities to optimise costs associated with product delivery, transport and inventory management

Inventory optimisation

• Implement effective inventory management practices in line with SANPC refinery’s policies and procedures to minimise stockouts and excess inventory
• Monitor stock levels at the refinery and depots to ensure product availability and cost-effective storage.
• Support decisions on stock holding policies and buffer requirements      

Data analysis and reporting

• Compile and analyse data to inform scheduling, pricing, and distribution decisions.
• Generate reports for internal decision-making and external regulatory compliance.

Governance and compliance

• Ensure adherence to SHEQ standards, energy regulations, and product handling legislation.
• Manage audit processes and resolve non-compliance findings.

Stakeholder engagement

• Engage with internal departments (Refining, Marketing, Finance) and external partners to align distribution and planning activities.
• Represent the refinery in coordination forums when delegated. 

Budget management

• Responsible for annually developing departmental budget and submitting it for approval.
• Responsible for ensuring that expenditure is contained within budgetary guidelines and identifying opportunities for cost savings.
• Responsible for the effective execution of the SCM processes to procure goods and services on time

 
 
Closing Date:  04 February 2026
 
NOTE: The successful candidate/s for the advertised position/s will be required to undergo personnel suitability checks, which includes, criminal records, citizenship, financial checks, qualifications and previous employment (Reference checks). It is the responsibility of the applicant to make sure that foreign qualifications are evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority and the evaluation certificate is attached to the application on submission. If you do not hear from the CEF SOC three months after the closing date of the advertisement, consider your application unsuccessful.  CEF SOC reserves the right not to fill this position. CEF SOC is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer, and it is committed to the achievement and maintenance of diversity and equity in employment, especially in respect of race, gender and disability. This position will be filled in accordance with the CEF SOC Employment Equity Plan.  Appointment at the Refinery is subject to the successful completion of a pre-employment medical examination".
 
PLEASE APPLY HERE

​PROJECT MANAGEMENT AND CONSTRUCTION SERVICES MANAGER
Durban, South Africa
 
INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL VACANCY: PROJECT MANAGEMENT & CONSTRUCTION SERVICES MANAGER
CEF SOC
CEF is a Schedule 2 state owned diversified energy company reporting to the Department of Mineral & Petroleum Resources. The Mandate of CEF is to contribute to the security of energy supply of South Africa and the Region through exploration, acquisition, development, marketing and strategic partnership. It is derived from the CEF Act (No 38 of 1977) and the Ministerial directives issued thereafter.
 
JOB PURPOSE:
To lead, coordinate and oversee the delivery of capital and infrastructure projects within the refinery in alignment with strategic, regulatory, and operational requirements. The role is responsible for ensuring project and construction services are executed efficiently, safely, on time, and within budget while adhering to quality standards and public sector compliance requirements.
 
REQUIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:

• BSc/BEng (NQF8) in Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or equivalent qualification.
• A minimum of 5 years’ experience in management of which 3 years must be at senior management in project management and construction, particularly in the oil, gas, or refining industry.
• Proven track record of working in the refinery or petrochemical plant managing construction services projects.
• ECSA registration or equivalent is strongly preferred.
• Project Management certification (PMP, Prince2, PMI) is highly preferred.
• Master’s degree (NQF 9) in Engineering or equivalent qualification will serve as an added advantage.

 
DESIRED ADDITIONAL SKILLS/ COMPETENCIES:

• Strong understanding of refinery processes, systems, operations and technical disciplines including mechanical, electrical, process safety, and construction methodologies.
• Proficient in project management tools (MS Project, Primavera, or similar).
• Skilled in interpreting engineering drawings, overseeing procurement processes, construction methods, commissioning procedures, and ensuring compliance with HSEQ regulations in high-risk industries.
• Highly capable of managing and developing diverse engineering teams in a complex, unionised, or government-regulated environment.
• Strong ability to balance scope, schedule, and budget while managing risks and quality.
• Experienced in CAPEX/OPEX planning, project execution, cost control, departmental budgeting, and supplier/service provider management.
• Demonstrated ability in root cause analysis, troubleshooting, operational risk management, and asset lifecycle cost optimisation
• Workforce planning and capability development skills
• Experienced in long-term asset integrity planning
• Composed and factual decision maker
• Highly assertive and competitive
• Solution orientated and results focused.

 
KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS:
Project Leadership and Governance

• Lead the execution of refinery capital projects, maintenance, and construction activities.
• Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and according to scope and quality standards.
• Develop and manage project execution plans, including resource allocation, schedules, procurement strategies, and financial control.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards, legal regulations (MHI, PER), and quality control systems (ISO 9001).
• Oversee the management of the project portfolio, ensuring alignment with the refinery’s strategic goals and objectives.
• Implement governance frameworks for project management in accordance with public sector procurement laws and regulations.

Construction and Technical Oversight

• Oversee the construction phase of projects, managing contractors, suppliers, and external stakeholders.
• Ensure all construction activities comply with refinery engineering standards, process safety requirements, and environmental regulations.
• Conduct risk assessments and ensure risk mitigation plans are in place, particularly around safety, quality, and project delivery.
• Ensure that all technical aspects of the project (design, procurement, construction, testing, and commissioning) are aligned with the refinery’s operational requirements.
• Resolve on-site technical and contractual issues in collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

Budget and Cost Control

• Oversee project budgeting, forecasting, and financial management; ensure projects are delivered within financial constraints.
• Develop and manage project cost control procedures, ensuring regular tracking and reporting of cost performance (CAPEX/OPEX).
• Evaluate contractor bids and provide recommendations on the most cost-effective, risk-mitigating solutions for the project.

Governance, Compliance and Risk Management

• Ensure adherence to relevant public sector procurement legislation, engineering codes, construction regulations, and environmental laws.
• Maintain rigorous project governance, including stage-gate reviews and audit readiness.
• Identify, manage and mitigate risks across all projects and construction activities

Resource Management

• Plan, allocate, and manage departmental resources to ensure effective delivery of operational objectives. This includes developing annual plans and budgets aligned with strategic priorities, monitoring expenditure, and ensuring cost-effective use of funds.
• Oversee human resource management within the department, including workforce planning, performance management, and staff development.
• Manage procurement processes by identifying service provider needs, sourcing suppliers in line with procurement policies, and overseeing the quality, cost, and contractual compliance of goods and services delivered.

Stakeholder engagement

• Engage and communicate with internal stakeholders, government bodies, service providers, and community representatives.
• Provide regular progress updates to the MD and participate in executive meetings.

 
 
Closing Date:   04 February 2026
 
NOTE: The successful candidate/s for the advertised position/s will be required to undergo personnel suitability checks, which includes, criminal records, citizenship, financial checks, qualifications and previous employment (Reference checks). It is the responsibility of the applicant to make sure that foreign qualifications are evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority and the evaluation certificate is attached to the application on submission. If you do not hear from the CEF SOC three months after the closing date of the advertisement, consider your application unsuccessful.  CEF SOC reserves the right not to fill this position. CEF SOC is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer, and it is committed to the achievement and maintenance of diversity and equity in employment, especially in respect of race, gender and disability. This position will be filled in accordance with the CEF SOC Employment Equity Plan.  Appointment at the Refinery is subject to the successful completion of a pre-employment medical examination".
 
PLEASE APPLY HERE