Principal Geothermal Engineer

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level compensation package

Hybrid work arrangement

Generous retirement savings plan

International assignments

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Geothermal Engineer to lead the end-to-end geothermal projects in Pretoria, driving innovative subsurface engineering, well design, and plant optimization. You will oversee exploration, reservoir management, and project execution while guiding a team of engineers to deliver technically robust solutions.

The role demands a strong track record in geothermal systems, thermodynamics, and energy project management, with travel to field sites as required.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Petroleum Engineering, Geothermal Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 12 years of experience specifically in geothermal engineering with subsurface operations and project management.
• Proven experience in geothermal well design, drilling supervision, and reservoir management.
• In-depth knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and heat transfer for geothermal systems.
• Proficiency in geothermal reservoir simulation software (TOUGH2, CMG) and CAD tools.
• Demonstrated success in managing large-scale energy projects from concept to completion.
• Strong leadership, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication, report-writing, and presentation abilities.
• Experience with different geothermal power plant technologies (dry steam, flash steam, binary).
• Ability to travel to project sites as required.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all technical aspects of geothermal exploration, resource assessment, and development projects.
• Oversee design, drilling, completion, and testing of geothermal wells.
• Develop and optimize geothermal power plant designs, including fluid systems and energy conversion tech.
• Conduct reservoir modeling and performance analysis to ensure sustainable resource utilization.
• Manage project budgets, timelines, and resources for successful execution.
• Collaborate with geologists and specialists to integrate subsurface data.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, safety, and regulatory standards.
• Provide mentorship to junior engineering staff.
• Evaluate new technologies to improve extraction efficiency and reduce costs.
• Contribute to business development, including proposals and client presentations.

Skills

Geothermal engineering

Project management

Leadership

Analytical skills

Communication

Education

Master's or PhD in a relevant field

Experience in geothermal subsurface operations

Tools

TOUGH2

CMG

CAD tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in exploring and developing sustainable energy resources, is seeking an exceptional Principal Geothermal Engineer to join their esteemed team in Pretoria, Gauteng . This senior position demands extensive expertise in the entire lifecycle of geothermal energy projects, from resource assessment and exploration to well drilling, power plant design, and operation. You will be instrumental in driving innovation and technical excellence in the burgeoning geothermal sector within South Africa. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the strategic direction of geothermal energy development, contributing significantly to the nation's clean energy transition. The successful candidate will possess a profound understanding of subsurface engineering, thermodynamics, and project management within the energy industry. This is a chance to lead groundbreaking initiatives in a field with immense potential.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all technical aspects of geothermal exploration, resource assessment, and development projects.
• Oversee the design, drilling, completion, and testing of geothermal wells.
• Develop and optimize geothermal power plant designs, including fluid systems and energy conversion technologies.
• Conduct detailed reservoir modeling and performance analysis to ensure sustainable resource utilization.
• Manage project budgets, timelines, and resources effectively, ensuring successful project execution.
• Collaborate with geologists, geochemists, and other specialists to integrate subsurface data.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental, safety, and regulatory standards.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineering staff.
• Evaluate new technologies and methodologies to improve geothermal energy extraction efficiency and reduce costs.
• Contribute to business development activities, including proposal writing and client presentations.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Petroleum Engineering, Geothermal Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 12 years of experience specifically in geothermal engineering, with a strong emphasis on subsurface operations and project management.
• Proven experience in geothermal well design, drilling supervision, and reservoir management.
• In-depth knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and heat transfer principles as applied to geothermal systems.
• Proficiency in geothermal reservoir simulation software (e.g., TOUGH2, CMG) and CAD tools.
• Demonstrated success in managing large-scale energy projects from concept to completion.
• Strong leadership, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication, report-writing, and presentation abilities.
• Experience with different geothermal power plant technologies (e.g., dry steam, flash steam, binary cycle).
• Ability to travel to project sites as required.

Benefits

• Executive-level compensation package, including a substantial bonus structure.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement savings plan.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth and international assignments.
• Lead role in shaping South Africa's geothermal energy future from Pretoria .
• Flexible hybrid work arrangement.
• Annual leave and paid time off.