Petroleum Production Optimization Engineer Job Vacancy in Gombe, Nigeria – Oil & Gas – Upstream

Job Description

Position: Petroleum Production Optimization Engineer

Company: Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC)

Location: Gombe, Nigeria

Experience: 5-7 years

Education: B.Sc. in Petroleum Engineering or related field

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Oil & Gas – Upstream

Department: Production Engineering

Salary: NGN 2,500,000 – NGN 3,500,000 per annum

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) is the flagship oil and gas company of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, responsible for the exploration, production, refining, and marketing of petroleum resources. With a legacy spanning over six decades, NNPC plays a pivotal role in driving Nigeria’s energy security, economic growth, and industrial development. The corporation operates across the entire hydrocarbon value chain, employing thousands of professionals and supporting a vast network of local suppliers and service providers. As a leading employer, NNPC is committed to fostering a culture of innovation, safety, and sustainability, offering career pathways that align with national development goals and global best practices. This job vacancy in Nigeria represents a strategic opportunity for seasoned engineers to contribute to the nation’s energy future while advancing their own professional growth.

Job Overview

The Petroleum Production Optimization Engineer will join the Production Engineering department at NNPC’s Gombe upstream hub. This role is central to enhancing oil and gas recovery rates, reducing operational costs, and ensuring compliance with environmental and safety standards. The engineer will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including reservoir engineers, drilling specialists, and field operators, to design and implement optimization strategies that maximize asset performance. The position offers exposure to cutting‑edge technologies such as real‑time data analytics, artificial intelligence‑driven forecasting, and advanced reservoir simulation. Candidates will be instrumental in shaping NNPC’s production portfolio, supporting the corporation’s ambition to increase domestic output and reduce reliance on imports. This role is a cornerstone of NNPC’s hiring in Nigeria, reflecting the organization’s dedication to attracting top talent for critical national projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze production data using advanced software tools to identify performance gaps and recommend corrective actions.
• Develop and implement field‑wide optimization plans, including well‑bore interventions, artificial lift upgrades, and flow assurance measures.
• Collaborate with reservoir engineers to integrate geological models with production forecasts, ensuring alignment with long‑term field development plans.
• Lead multidisciplinary workshops to disseminate best practices and drive continuous improvement across the Gombe production complex.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as oil‑in‑place, water cut, and gas‑oil ratio, providing regular reports to senior management.
• Ensure all optimization activities comply with NNPC’s health, safety, and environmental (HSE) policies and Nigerian regulatory requirements.
• Support the integration of digital solutions, including IoT sensors and cloud‑based analytics platforms, to enhance real‑time decision making.

Required Skills

• Proficiency in production engineering software (e.g., Prosper, GAP, Petrel) and data analytics tools (e.g., Python, MATLAB, Power BI).
• Strong understanding of artificial lift systems, well testing, and flow assurance techniques.
• Excellent problem‑solving abilities with a data‑driven mindset.
• Effective communication skills for presenting technical findings to both technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
• Ability to work collaboratively in cross‑functional teams and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Knowledge of Nigerian oil & gas regulations and international industry standards (e.g., API, ISO).

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in Petroleum Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related discipline is required. A Master’s degree or professional certifications such as PE (Professional Engineer) or PMP (Project Management Professional) are highly desirable and will be considered an advantage during the selection process.

Experience

Applicants must possess a minimum of five to seven years of hands‑on experience in petroleum production engineering, preferably within upstream operations of a major oil and gas company or an international oilfield services firm. Demonstrated experience in production optimization projects, well intervention planning, and digital transformation initiatives will be given priority.

Salary

The compensation package ranges from NGN 2,500,000 to NGN 3,500,000 per annum, commensurate with experience, qualifications, and performance. The package includes statutory benefits, performance bonuses, and allowances aligned with NNPC’s remuneration framework.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance covering employee and dependents.
• Pension scheme in accordance with the National Pension Commission (PenCom) guidelines.
• Annual leave, sick leave, and maternity/paternity leave as per Nigerian labor law.
• Professional development budget for certifications, conferences, and advanced training.
• Relocation assistance for candidates moving to Gombe.
• Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.

Training

• On‑boarding program that includes safety induction, corporate governance, and system orientation.
• Access to NNPC’s Learning Management System for continuous skill enhancement.
• Mentorship from senior production engineers and senior management.
• Opportunities to attend international workshops on enhanced oil recovery (EOR) and digital oilfield technologies.

Working Environment

Located in Gombe, the role offers a dynamic field‑based environment combined with modern office facilities equipped with high‑speed internet, collaborative workspaces, and state‑of‑the‑art simulation labs. NNPC promotes a culture of safety, inclusivity, and innovation, encouraging employees to voice ideas and contribute to process improvements. The organization values diversity and provides equal growth opportunities for all staff.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience through the NNPC Careers portal. Applications will be screened by the Talent Acquisition team, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for a virtual interview followed by an on‑site technical assessment. The recruitment timeline typically spans four to six weeks from the date of posting.

Equal Opportunity Statement

NNPC is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any protected characteristic. This commitment aligns with NNPC’s broader mission to support Employment in Nigeria and foster Career Opportunities in Nigeria for all Nigerians.