Sr. Engineer, Operation

Position Overview

MARAFIQ, a premier integrated utility service provider in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is at the forefront of delivering essential utility services across the Industrial Cities of the Kingdom. By leveraging cutting-edge energy solutions, MARAFIQ is committed to fostering a vibrant society and a thriving economy, aligning with the strategic objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. As a key contributor to this mission, the Sr. Engineer, Operation will play a pivotal role in ensuring the reliability, safety, and efficiency of our gas network operations. This role is instrumental in supporting MARAFIQ’s vision of empowering lives through sustainable energy solutions.

Key Responsibilities

The Sr. Engineer, Operation will oversee the operational integrity, technical performance, and regulatory compliance of MARAFIQ’s gas network. This position requires a proactive approach to identifying and resolving operational challenges, optimizing processes, and ensuring seamless coordination with cross-functional teams. The following are the core duties and responsibilities associated with this role:

• Operational Monitoring and Problem Resolution: Review operating parameter readings, records, and trends to detect abnormalities or potential issues. Initiate corrective actions to mitigate risks and ensure uninterrupted gas supply.
• Strategic Problem-Solving: Conduct in-depth studies on recurring operational challenges and propose data-driven solutions in collaboration with the operations and maintenance teams to enhance long-term performance.
• Billing and Accountability: Analyze gas billing reports to verify that all delivered gas is accurately accounted for and billed to customers, ensuring transparency and financial integrity.
• Network Expansion and Design Review: Evaluate planned expansions, including connection points and methodologies, to ensure they do not compromise the safety or functionality of the existing gas network. Review gas connection project designs from an operational perspective to confirm compatibility with current system conditions.
• Utility Coordination: Review and approve the installation of other utilities across or parallel to the gas pipeline network to maintain safe operating conditions and prevent interference.
• Compliance and Testing: Ensure routine tests are conducted in accordance with predetermined schedules and established standards to uphold operational safety and reliability.
• Technological Advancement: Stay abreast of the latest advancements in gas distribution technology and processes. Recommend improvements to enhance the technical sustainability and efficiency of the gas network.
• Procedural Enhancements: Recommend and implement improvements to departmental procedures to ensure compliance with relevant legislative requirements while delivering high-quality, cost-effective services to customers.
• Post-Maintenance Verification: Witness the testing and commissioning of equipment following shutdowns to confirm that maintenance activities have been executed effectively and the network is restored to optimal condition.
• Operational Efficiency: Monitor operational activities to ensure adherence to established procedures, policies, and safety standards, fostering a culture of efficiency and accountability.
• Technical and Logistical Solutions: Develop innovative solutions to complex logistical and technical challenges to maintain the proper functioning of the gas network.
• Performance Metrics and KPIs: Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for operations and maintenance (O&M) to track equipment reliability, maintenance performance, and business process efficiency. Ensure accurate reporting and analysis of these metrics.
• Budget Oversight: Review, analyze, prepare, and monitor the departmental annual budget to ensure all operational requirements are adequately funded within the fiscal year.
• Stakeholder Coordination: Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to implement strategic plans, activities, and requirements essential for the gas network’s success.
• Cross-Departmental Collaboration: Work closely with the Engineering and Technical Support Departments (TSD) to seek advice and solutions that enhance the efficiency and performance of the gas network.
• Safety and Compliance Management: Ensure strict adherence to all safety, quality, and environmental management policies, procedures, and controls across the department to safeguard employees and maintain legislative compliance.
• Emergency Response: Serve as a Technical Committee member during emergencies, including fires, to provide immediate technical support for mitigating risks, rescuing personnel, and protecting plant and equipment.
• Work Permit System Oversight: Review and monitor the implementation of the Work Permit System as an Authorized Permit Holder to ensure compliance with safety protocols and operational standards.

Qualifications and Competencies

Candidates for the Sr. Engineer, Operation position should possess a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (preferably Mechanical, Chemical, or Petroleum) with a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in gas network operations, maintenance, or a related field. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and leadership skills are essential, along with a deep understanding of gas distribution systems, regulatory compliance, and safety standards. Proficiency in budget management, KPI tracking, and cross-functional collaboration is highly desirable. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement, technological innovation, and sustainable operational practices.