Mechanical Site Lead – Ethylene Cracking Heater Erection

Mechanical Site Lead – Ethylene Cracking Heater Erection

Project: Ethane Cracker Unit – Heater Island
Location: Atyrau Region, Kazakhstan
Position Overview

The Mechanical Site Lead for Ethylene Cracking Heater Erection will be responsible for the overall field execution, coordination, and supervision of installation works related to the Steam Cracker Furnace (SRT-VI Ethylene Cracking Heaters). The role requires extensive experience in the erection of petrochemical cracking furnaces including radiant box structures, refractory systems, radiant coils, transfer line exchangers (TLE), convection modules, burner systems, and associated piping and instrumentation systems.

The Mechanical Site Lead will coordinate multidisciplinary construction teams to ensure safe, efficient, and quality installation of all heater components in accordance with vendor procedures, project specifications, and international standards.

The position requires close coordination with the client, vendor representatives (e.g., furnace licensor) and subcontractors to achieve mechanical completion and start-up readiness.

Key Responsibilities

Construction Leadership

• Lead all field erection activities for ethylene cracking heaters, including structural steel, radiant box panels, convection modules, refractory lining, and coil installation.
• Supervise installation of six (6) SRT-VI ethylene cracking furnaces including radiant coils, cross-over piping, transfer line exchangers (TLE), steam drums, ID fans, and stacks.
• Manage multidisciplinary teams covering:

• Mechanical erection
• Structural steel works
• Insulation and refractory works

• Coordinate simultaneous installation activities across multiple disciplines within the Heater Island area.

Construction Planning & Execution

• Develop and implement detailed heater erection plans and method statements in accordance with vendor procedures.
• Coordinate construction sequencing including:

• Radiant box erection
• Panel alignment and sealing
• Refractory installation
• Convection module stacking
• Radiant coil installation and balancing
• TLE installation and piping connections
• Burner and combustion system installation

• Ensure correct installation tolerances for heater structures and equipment.

Interface Management

• Coordinate with EPC contractor, licensors, and vendors (e.g., furnace suppliers) on installation procedures and technical clarifications.
• Manage interface between heater erection activities and other plant construction works including piping, utilities, and electrical systems.
• Participate in coordination meetings to align construction schedules and resolve installation conflicts.

Quality Assurance & Compliance

• Ensure all installation works comply with project technical specifications, vendor requirements, and international codes including:

• ASME B31.3
• ASME Section IX
• AISC Structural requirements

• Oversee welding procedures, NDT activities, and quality documentation for heater construction works.
• Ensure correct traceability of materials and installation records.

HSE Leadership

• Enforce strict adherence to project HSE standards and safe work practices.
• Manage safety controls for high-risk activities including:

• Confined space work inside radiant boxes
• Heavy lifting operations
• Working at height
• Hot work and refractory installation

• Promote a strong safety culture across all subcontractors and workforce.

Required Qualifications

Education

• Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.

Experience

• Minimum 6 - 10 years of experience in oil & gas or petrochemical construction projects. (experience in cracking furnace / heater erection)

Technical Competencies

• Heater erection sequencing and construction planning
• Structural and mechanical installation of large furnaces
• Refractory installation supervision
• Coil installation and alignment
• TLE and high-temperature piping installation
• EPC construction management
• Vendor interface management
• Mechanical completion and pre-commissioning coordination

Soft Skills

• Strong leadership and team management capabilities
• Excellent problem-solving skills
• Ability to coordinate large multidisciplinary teams
• Strong communication with client, vendors, and subcontractors
• High level of safety awareness