Geothermal Energy Systems Specialist

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private health insurance

Retirement fund

International travel

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Geothermal Energy Systems Specialist in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, to lead design, development and optimization of geothermal systems for power generation and direct-use heating/cooling.

You will work with geologists and engineers, applying thermodynamics, fluid dynamics and drilling know-how to deliver innovative geothermal solutions in a coastal environment with hybrid work flexibility.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Geothermal Engineering, Geological Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 7 years in geothermal or related field (oil & gas with thermal focus).
• Strong knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, heat transfer and geological principles.

Responsibilities

• Design and engineer geothermal power plants and direct-use heating/cooling systems.
• Conduct geological surveys, resource assessments, and feasibility studies for geothermal sites.
• Develop thermodynamic models and system simulations for extraction and utilization.
• Specify and select geothermal equipment including turbines, heat exchangers, pumps, drilling components.
• Oversee installation, commissioning and operation of geothermal systems.
• Troubleshoot and optimize system performance for energy output and efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with environmental and safety standards.
• Collaborate with geologists, engineers and construction teams.

Skills

Geothermal Eng

Thermodynamics

Fluid Dynamics

Heat Transfer

Geology basics

Project Management

Technical Reporting

Communication

Team Collaboration

Hybrid Work

Education

Masters/PhD

Tools

Geothermal software

Drilling tech

Job description

About the Role

Our client is pioneering advancements in sustainable energy solutions and is seeking an innovative Geothermal Energy Systems Specialist to join their growing team in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. This role is crucial for the design, development, implementation, and optimization of geothermal energy systems for various applications, including power generation and direct-use heating/cooling. You will be at the forefront of leveraging Earth's natural heat resources, contributing to a diverse and resilient energy mix. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of geological principles, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics, combined with practical engineering experience. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge geothermal technology development in the unique coastal environment of Mossel Bay, Western Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and engineer geothermal power plants and direct-use heating/cooling systems.
• Conduct geological surveys, resource assessments, and feasibility studies for potential geothermal sites.
• Develop thermodynamic models and system simulations for geothermal energy extraction and utilization.
• Specify and select appropriate geothermal equipment, including turbines, heat exchangers, pumps, and drilling components.
• Oversee the installation, commissioning, and operation of geothermal systems.
• Troubleshoot and optimize system performance to maximize energy output and efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and safety standards throughout project lifecycles.
• Collaborate with geologists, engineers, and construction teams to integrate geothermal solutions.
• Stay abreast of emerging geothermal technologies and best practices globally.
• Prepare technical reports, proposals, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.

Requirements

• Master's or PhD degree in Geothermal Engineering, Geological Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in the geothermal energy sector or a closely related field (e.g., oil & gas exploration with a focus on thermal properties).
• Strong knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and geological principles relevant to geothermal resources.
• Experience with geothermal system design software and simulation tools.
• Familiarity with drilling technologies and subsurface exploration techniques.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Proficiency in project management and technical report writing.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model, balancing remote analysis with site visits.
• Understanding of the South African energy landscape and potential for geothermal development is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including private health insurance, a generous retirement fund, and opportunities for international travel and professional development.
• You will work on pioneering projects, contribute to a sustainable energy future, and enjoy a dynamic work environment with a focus on innovation and collaboration, offering a good work-life balance through its hybrid model.