Project Controls Manager
Industry: Oil & Gas
Location: Muscat, Oman
Salary Package: 3,500 OMR (Approx. $9,100 USD / £7,150 GBP / €8,350 EUR) per month + likely benefits (accommodation, transport, flight allowances, etc. - common in Oman packages).
Role Summary:
We are seeking a highly experienced and strategic Project Controls Manager to oversee and direct all project control activities for a major capital project (valued over USD 500 million). You will be responsible for providing integrated cost, schedule, risk, and change management leadership to ensure the project is delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality and safety standards. You will lead a team of planning and cost engineers, serving as the key advisor to the Project Director on all project performance matters.
Key Responsibilities:
- Leadership & Strategy:
- Lead, manage, and develop the entire Project Controls team.
- Establish and implement the Project Controls strategy, procedures, and systems for the project.
- Act as the primary point of contact for all project controls reporting to senior management and stakeholders.
- Cost Management:
- Develop and maintain the project's total budget, cost control, and forecasting systems.
- Ensure rigorous financial record-keeping in accordance with the contract.
- Oversee the preparation of cost reports, cash flow projections, and variance analysis.
- Manage the change control process, evaluating the impact of variations and trends.
- Planning & Scheduling:
- Oversee the development and maintenance of the integrated project master schedule (Level 1-3), covering engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning.
- Monitor project progress, identify critical path and schedule risks, and propose mitigation plans.
- Lead schedule performance analysis (SPI) and report on any deviations.
- Risk Management:
- Implement and manage the project risk management process.
- Facilitate quantitative risk analysis (QRA) to determine cost and schedule contingency.
- Reporting & Analysis:
- Consolidate cost and schedule data to produce comprehensive weekly and monthly project performance reports.
- Provide insightful analysis on project trends, highlighting potential problem areas and recommending corrective actions.
- Cross-Functional Coordination:
- Ensure seamless delivery of project control services to all project phases: Engineering, Construction, Commissioning, and Maintenance.
- Interface with contractors, vendors, and the client's project controls team.
Required Qualifications & Experience:
- Education: Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering. A Master's degree in Engineering, Business, or Project Management would be advantageous.
- Experience:
- A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in project controls, specifically within the Oil & Gas sector.
- At least 5 years in a Managerial role, leading a project controls team.
- Proven track record on EPC (Engineering, Procurement, Construction) projects valued at over USD 500 million.
- Demonstrable experience in the full project lifecycle from FEED to commissioning.
- Technical Skills:
- Expertise in project controls software (e.g., Primavera P6, SAP, MS Project, EcoSys, or similar).
- Advanced skills in Earned Value Management (EVM), forecasting, and risk analysis.
- Personal Skills:
- Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Ability to influence decision-making at a senior management level.
Analysis of the Offer & Considerations
1. The Salary (3,500 OMR):
- This is a very competitive tax-free salary for a managerial position in Oman. It places the candidate in a high income bracket, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle with significant savings potential.
- It is crucial to confirm if this is a "Base Salary" or a "Total Package." For expatriates in Oman, the total package often includes:
- Basic Salary: A portion of the 3,500 OMR.
- Housing Allowance: To rent an apartment or villa.
- Transportation Allowance: For a car lease or purchase.
- Other Benefits: Annual flight tickets home, medical insurance, and end-of-service benefits.
2. The Experience Bar:
- The requirements are very specific and stringent. They are looking for a seasoned professional, not someone transitioning into a manager role. The "5 Years at a Manager level" and "USD 500 million project" experience are critical filters.
3. The "Mechanical Engineering" Degree:
- This is a specific requirement, likely because the project has significant mechanical components (pipelines, pressure vessels, rotating equipment). They want a manager who deeply understands the technical scope, not just the controls theory. Candidates with other engineering degrees (Civil, Chemical) may be at a disadvantage unless they have overwhelmingly relevant experience.
4. Location - Muscat, Oman:
- Pros: Muscat is a modern, safe, and beautiful city with a high standard of living. It offers excellent amenities, schools, and a large expat community.
- Cons: The climate is extremely hot for much of the year. It's important to be culturally aware and respectful of local customs.
Next Steps for Applicants
- Tailor Your CV: Your CV must explicitly highlight the key requirements:
- Managerial Experience: Show your 5+ years managing a team.
- Project Value: List the specific projects you've worked on and their dollar values.
- Oil & Gas Focus: Emphasize your sector-specific experience.
- Degree: Clearly state your B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering.
- Prepare for the Interview: Be ready to discuss:
- A specific example of a $500M+ project you controlled.
- How you managed a major cost or schedule crisis.
- Your leadership style and experience building a project controls team.
- Your familiarity with the specific project controls processes and software.
