Principal Geothermal Energy Specialist

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 1,300,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Continuing education

Conferences access

Annual leave 28 days

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Geothermal Energy Specialist to lead strategic development and technical execution of geothermal projects in Centurion, Gauteng. You will guide exploration, reservoir engineering, and plant design from conception to completion, influencing senior decisions and project outcomes.

You will mentor engineers, coordinate with partners and regulators, and drive technical excellence while ensuring commercial viability of geothermal initiatives in South Africa.

Qualifications

• PhD or Master's in Geosciences, Reservoir Engineering, Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum 12 years of geothermal exploration and power plant development experience.
• Proven track record managing large-scale geothermal projects.
• Expertise in subsurface data analysis and modeling tools.
• Strong leadership and communication at senior levels.

Responsibilities

• Lead geological surveys, drilling program management, and reservoir characterization.
• Oversee design and optimization of geothermal power plant systems.
• Develop reservoir engineering strategies to maximize energy extraction.
• Manage technical aspects of geothermal project development with safety and compliance.
• Conduct economic feasibility studies and provide financial analysis for ventures.
• Collaborate with internal teams, partners, and regulatory bodies to advance objectives.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and geoscientists.
• Represent the company at conferences and industry meetings.
• Stay updated on geothermal technology advancements and best practices.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Technical mentoring

Stakeholder engagement

Communication

Education

PhD or Master in Geosciences/Reservoir Eng/Mech Eng

Tools

Geological modeling software

Reservoir simulation tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in the Energy sector, is seeking a highly distinguished Principal Geothermal Energy Specialist to join their esteemed team in Centurion, Gauteng . This pivotal role involves leading the strategic development and technical execution of groundbreaking geothermal energy projects. You will be at the forefront of harnessing the Earth's natural heat for sustainable power generation, contributing significantly to South Africa's renewable energy portfolio. The successful candidate will possess deep expertise in geological assessment, reservoir engineering, and the design and operation of geothermal power plants. This position requires a visionary leader capable of driving complex projects from conception through to completion, ensuring technical excellence and commercial viability. You will play a crucial role in advising senior management and influencing the direction of our geothermal energy initiatives within Gauteng and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the comprehensive assessment and exploration of potential geothermal resources, including geological surveys, drilling program management, and reservoir characterization.
• Oversee the design, development, and optimization of geothermal power plant systems, from wellhead to power generation.
• Develop and implement advanced reservoir engineering strategies to maximize energy extraction and ensure long‑term resource sustainability.
• Manage all technical aspects of geothermal project development, ensuring compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Conduct economic feasibility studies and provide expert financial analysis for geothermal ventures.
• Collaborate closely with internal teams, external partners, government agencies, and regulatory bodies to advance project objectives.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and geoscientists.
• Represent the company at industry conferences, forums, and technical meetings, showcasing expertise in geothermal energy.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in geothermal technology, exploration techniques, and international best practices.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Geosciences, Reservoir Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 12 years of specialized experience in geothermal exploration, resource assessment, and power plant development.
• Proven track record of successfully managing and delivering large-scale geothermal projects.
• Extensive knowledge of subsurface data analysis, geological modeling software, and reservoir simulation tools relevant to geothermal systems.
• Deep understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer principles as applied to geothermal energy extraction.
• Experience with different geothermal power plant technologies (e.g., flash steam, binary cycle).
• Exceptional leadership, project management, and communication skills.
• Ability to influence decision‑making at senior levels and build strong stakeholder relationships.
• Strong understanding of South African geological formations and regulatory frameworks is advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive salary package that reflects the seniority and expertise required for this role, along with significant performance‑based incentives. A comprehensive medical aid scheme and a substantial retirement fund are provided. We are committed to your professional growth, offering opportunities for continued education, participation in international conferences, and access to cutting‑edge research. This position includes 28 days of annual leave, increasing with service length. The role is based in our state‑of‑the‑art facility in Centurion, Gauteng , fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment. Our client champions diversity and inclusion, ensuring a welcoming workplace for all.