Shutdown jobs, also called turnaround or TA jobs, are short-term projects where a plant, refinery or industrial unit is temporarily stopped for inspection, cleaning, repair and maintenance. Because a large workforce is needed for a fixed period, these jobs usually offer higher daily pay and plenty of overtime, which makes them popular among experienced workers.

Common shutdown trades

• Welders, pipe fitters and fabricators
• Riggers, scaffolders and mechanical fitters
• Blasters, painters and insulators
• Electrical, instrument and maintenance technicians

How shutdown work is different

Shutdown jobs run for a limited duration (often a few weeks to a couple of months) with long working hours during the project. Prior plant, refinery or turnaround experience is usually preferred, and some roles require safety and trade certifications. Because the timeline is fixed, mobilisation is often quick once selected.

Salary and locations

Shutdown vacancies come up across Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, Kuwait and Oman, with pay depending on the trade, experience, certifications and company. Higher rates and overtime reflect the intense, time-bound nature of the work, with details confirmed in each post.

Before you apply

• Check the project duration, trade and required experience in each post
• Confirm daily rate, overtime, accommodation and contract terms with the agency
• Keep your passport, trade and safety certificates and experience documents ready

Full details for each shutdown job are listed above.