The Chief Operator is responsible for leading and controlling daily field operations to ensure safe, efficient, and continuous production of oil and gas facilities. The role oversees field operators, monitors process conditions, coordinates maintenance and HSE activities, and ensures compliance with operating procedures and safety standards.

Key Responsibilities
Operations & Process Control
Lead and supervise all field operations including wells, manifolds, separators, compressors, pipelines, and utility systems.
Monitor process parameters (pressure, temperature, flow, level) and ensure the facility is operated within safe and optimal limits.
Perform and verify plant start-up, shutdown, and emergency operations.
Ensure production targets are met while maintaining safe operating conditions.
Team Supervision
Supervise Field Operators and Area Operators on shift.
Assign daily tasks and ensure proper handover between shifts.
Coach and mentor operators to improve operational performance and safety awareness.
Safety & Compliance
Ensure all activities comply with HSE policies, PTW system, and operational procedures.
Act as the Performing Authority or Area Authority within the Permit to Work system.
Stop unsafe work and ensure hazards are controlled before work starts.
Maintenance & Coordination
Coordinate with Maintenance and HSE teams to plan equipment isolation, testing, and restoration.
Ensure equipment is properly prepared for maintenance (draining, depressurizing, gas testing, lockout/tagout).
Verify that systems are returned to service safely after maintenance.
Emergency Response
Act as the first line of response during process upsets, alarms, or emergencies.
Execute emergency shutdowns (ESD) when required.
Lead field teams during emergencies until the Incident Commander takes over.
Reporting & Communication
Maintain accurate shift logs, production reports, and incident reports.
Communicate operational status to Control Room, Production Supervisor, and HSE.

Qualifications & Experience
Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Process Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
Minimum 7–10 years of experience in onshore oil & gas operations.
At least 3 years in a senior operator or supervisory role.

Skills & Competencies
Strong understanding of oil & gas production systems.
Excellent leadership and decision-making under pressure.
Strong knowledge of PTW, isolations, and operational safety.
Ability to read P&IDs and operating manuals.
Good communication in English and Arabic.

Reporting Line
Reports to: Production Supervisor / Operations Superintendent
Supervises: Field Operators and Area Operators

A highly experienced Chief Operator, Iraqi national, with a strong background in onshore oil and gas field operations. Holds a technical diploma or Bachelor’s degree with extensive hands-on experience in operating and supervising production, processing, and utility systems in upstream facilities.

Demonstrates solid knowledge of wells, separators, manifolds, compressors, pipelines, and utility systems, with proven ability to lead field operators and ensure safe, stable, and efficient plant operations. Experienced in start-up, shutdown, isolation, and emergency response procedures, and fully familiar with Permit to Work systems, SIMOPS, and operational safety controls.

Recognized for strong leadership in the field, effective coordination with Control Room, Maintenance, and HSE teams, and a proactive approach to hazard identification and operational risk management. Capable of making sound decisions under pressure to protect people, equipment, and production.

Fluent in Arabic with working knowledge of English, able to communicate clearly with multinational teams and contractors. Committed to safe operations, asset integrity, and continuous improvement of production performance.

Monthly salary and other benefits as per standards.

Iraqi Nationals

Diversity.