Project Manager – Dredging Operations

About S.A.M.E. Dredging

S.A.M.E. Dredging is a leading South African inland dredging company specialising in dredging solutions for mining, industrial, and water infrastructure projects. Our operations include the deployment of cutter suction dredgers, booster pump systems, and slurry pipeline solutions to remove sediment and manage water infrastructure across Southern Africa.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Project Manager with experience in dredging and pumping to oversee dredging projects from mobilisation through to completion.

Key Responsibilities:

Project Management

• Plan, coordinate, and manage dredging projects from initiation through completion.
• Develop project schedules, resource plans, and mobilisation plans.
• Ensure projects are delivered within budget, scope, and schedule.
• Manage project risks and resolve operational challenges on site.

Operations & Technical Oversight

• Oversee dredging operations, including a range of inland Dredging equipment, booster pumps, and slurry pipelines.
• Monitor production performance and ensure optimal pumping efficiency and dredging output.
• Ensure correct pump operation, pipeline configuration, and slurry transport efficiency.
• Coordinate equipment mobilisation, maintenance, and demobilisation.

Site Management

• Manage site teams, including operators, technicians, and subcontractors.
• Ensure safe working conditions and compliance with safety standards.
• Conduct regular site inspections and performance reviews.

Client & Stakeholder Management

• Act as the primary contact between the client and S.A.M.E. Dredging on-site.
• Provide regular project progress reports and updates.
• Manage client expectations and resolve operational issues.

Financial & Commercial Management

• Track project costs, production performance, and operational budgets.
• Manage procurement of site materials and services.
• Assist with variation orders and contract management where required.

Key Skills

• Strong leadership and team management
• Technical problem-solving
• Budget and schedule control
• Client relationship management
• Operational planning
• Decision-making under pressure

Minimum Requirements:

• Minimum 5 years’ experience as a Project Manager in the dredging industry.
• Proven experience with dredging pumps, slurry pipelines, and dredging equipment.
• Diploma in Project Management (minimum qualification).
• Valid South African Driver’s License.
• Willingness to travel extensively and work on remote project sites.
• Strong understanding of mechanical equipment and pumping systems.

Preferred Qualifications / Experience

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or Project Management.
• Experience with:
  • Dredgers
  • Booster pump stations
  • Slurry pipeline systems
  • Mining or industrial dredging projects
• Experience managing large site teams and heavy equipment operations.

What We Offer

• Opportunity to work with one of South Africa’s leading inland dredging companies
• Exposure to large-scale dredging and pumping projects
• Competitive salary based on experience
• Career growth within a specialised engineering environment