Deputy Head of Project Department Technical Development
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced and visionary engineering leader to join our Project Department as the Deputy Head for Technical Development. This role is critical in shaping the technical direction of our geothermal growth projects and ensuring excellence in early-phase engineering.
You will lead conceptual engineering, feasibility studies, and FEED activities for new developments and expansions across our geothermal portfolio. As a senior technical authority, you will ensure the highest standards of engineering quality, safety, innovation, and sustainabilitysupporting strategic investment decisions and long-term asset performance.
Key Responsibilities
Technical Leadership & Project Development
- Lead and oversee all technical development activities, including feasibility studies, conceptual engineering, FEED, and Detailed Engineering Design (DED).
- Provide technical assurance and strategic guidance throughout early-phase project planning.
- Review and approve technical deliverables, specifications, and engineering packages to ensure compliance with company standards and regulatory requirements.
Engineering Standards & Quality
- Develop, implement, and maintain engineering standards, procedures, and design guidelines to drive consistency and technical excellence across projects.
- Ensure engineering practices align with industry best practices, HSE requirements, and project governance frameworks.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work closely with project management, subsurface, drilling, operations, and commercial teams to ensure technical alignment and integration.
- Represent the company in technical forums, regulatory engagements, and external industry collaborations.
Innovation & Technical Improvement
- Identify and manage technical risks and opportunities to improve reliability, cost efficiency, and project performance.
- Drive innovation, digital transformation, and engineering optimization initiatives across the portfolio.
- Introduce new technologies and sustainable engineering solutions to enhance project development outcomes.
People Leadership & Capability Building
- Mentor, coach, and develop engineering talent within the technical development team.
- Promote knowledge sharing, continuous learning, and strong engineering discipline culture.
Expected Outcomes
- Delivery of high-quality technical studies that support sound investment decisions.
- Standardized and optimized engineering practices across all geothermal projects.
- Reduced technical risks and increased predictability in cost and schedule.
- Strengthened engineering capability and innovation mindset across the organization.
Business Impact
This senior leadership role significantly influences the quality, reliability, and long-term sustainability of geothermal project developments. Strong technical planning and innovation directly support the company's strategic growth, operational excellence, and financial performance.
Authority & Decision-Making
- Financial: Recommends budgets for technical studies and engineering design work.
- Operational: Approves technical procedures, standards, and deliverables within delegated authority.
- People Leadership: Supervises and develops engineers and project teams.
Key escalations:
- Major design changes impacting cost, schedule, or development concept.
- Significant technical or contractual deviations.
Problem-Solving & Innovation Requirements
- Handle complex and novel engineering challenges across geothermal development.
- Improve existing methods, processes, and systems to increase efficiency and technical performance.
- Apply advanced analytical thinking to evaluate alternative solutions and optimize project economics and sustainability.
Qualifications
Education & Certifications
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, or related).
- Master's degree preferred.
- Professional Engineer (PE) certification or equivalent is an advantage.
Experience
- Minimum 15 years in design engineering, technical development, or project management in geothermal or oil & gas.
- Strong hands-on experience with conceptual engineering, FEED, and early-phase project development.
- Proven leadership experience managing multidisciplinary engineering teams.
Technical & Industry Knowledge
- Strong understanding of geothermal project lifecycle, engineering standards, and best practices.
- Experience evaluating new technologies and engineering innovations.
- Familiarity with regulatory requirements, environmental frameworks, and project governance.
Equal Opportunity Statement
We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply, regardless of gender, background, or personal circumstances.
