Job Description
The Geothermal Development Company (GDC) is seeking an accomplished and forward-thinking professional to join its Geothermal Resource Assessment Department as a Principal Geoscientist (Geophysics) – Geothermal Resource Assessment. This permanent and pensionable leadership position presents an exciting opportunity for an experienced geoscience specialist to contribute to the exploration, evaluation, and sustainable development of geothermal resources that support Kenya's clean energy agenda.
Reporting to the Manager – Geothermal Resource Assessment, the successful candidate will provide technical leadership in geophysical investigations, geothermal prospect evaluation, exploration planning, drilling support, and interpretation of subsurface data. The role requires an individual capable of transforming complex geological and geophysical information into practical recommendations that enhance exploration success and optimize resource development activities. Working closely with multidisciplinary technical teams, the Principal Geoscientist will help strengthen exploration strategies through scientific innovation, sound analytical judgment, and effective project coordination.
The successful candidate will oversee exploration programs from planning through implementation while ensuring that technical standards, environmental considerations, operational efficiency, and safety requirements remain fully integrated into every stage of geothermal resource assessment. The position also involves guiding exploration priorities, evaluating drilling targets, supporting well testing activities, reviewing technical findings, and recommending improvements that enhance exploration outcomes and long-term resource sustainability.
As a senior member of the department, the Principal Geoscientist will mentor technical staff, coordinate multidisciplinary assignments, manage sectional resources, and contribute to strategic planning initiatives that advance organizational objectives. The role demands exceptional analytical capability, strong leadership, excellent communication skills, and the ability to make informed decisions within dynamic operational environments.
This opportunity is ideal for a highly motivated geoscience professional who possesses substantial experience in geothermal exploration, geophysical interpretation, resource evaluation, drilling support, and scientific reporting. GDC offers a collaborative workplace that values innovation, integrity, continuous learning, and professional excellence while providing employees with opportunities to contribute meaningfully to the expansion of renewable energy infrastructure. Qualified candidates who are passionate about advancing geothermal science and delivering sustainable energy solutions are encouraged to submit their applications before the stated closing date.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop comprehensive sectional operational plans aligned with departmental objectives and corporate strategic priorities.
- Prepare, administer, monitor, and optimize sectional budgets while ensuring prudent utilization of allocated financial resources.
- Lead advanced geophysical investigations to support geothermal exploration and resource evaluation programs.
- Interpret geophysical, geological, geochemical, and drilling datasets to improve exploration decision-making.
- Review exploration reports, well evaluation reports, and technical documentation for accuracy, completeness, and scientific quality.
- Coordinate identification, assessment, prioritization, and ranking of promising geothermal prospects using multidisciplinary information.
- Recommend scientifically sound drilling targets based on integrated geophysical interpretation and exploration evidence.
- Provide technical guidance to drilling teams during exploration and appraisal drilling operations.
- Monitor drilling performance and recommend adjustments that improve operational effectiveness and data quality.
- Plan, supervise, and evaluate well logging programs and ensure accurate acquisition of subsurface information.
- Coordinate geothermal fluid sampling, laboratory analysis, interpretation, and reporting activities.
- Ensure exploration activities comply with applicable environmental, occupational safety, and quality management requirements.
- Lead technical discussions, planning meetings, and project review sessions with multidisciplinary stakeholders.
- Mentor, coach, and supervise junior geoscientists while promoting technical excellence and professional development.
- Prepare technical presentations, scientific reports, feasibility assessments, and management briefings.
- Support research initiatives aimed at improving exploration methodologies and geothermal resource characterization.
- Evaluate exploration risks and recommend practical mitigation measures throughout project implementation.
- Collaborate with engineering, drilling, reservoir, GIS, environmental, and laboratory teams to achieve project milestones.
- Monitor emerging technologies, industry developments, and scientific innovations relevant to geothermal exploration.
- Participate in procurement planning by preparing technical specifications for specialized exploration equipment and services.
- Maintain accurate technical databases, exploration records, maps, and geophysical models.
- Promote continuous process improvement through data-driven recommendations and operational reviews.
- Represent the department during technical engagements, professional forums, and stakeholder consultations whenever required.
- Ensure timely delivery of departmental assignments while maintaining high standards of scientific integrity, accuracy, and professionalism.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Master's Degree in Earth/Geological Science, Geology, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Geothermal Energy Technology, or another closely related discipline from a recognized institution.
- Bachelor's Degree in Earth/Geological Science, Geology, Physics, Chemistry, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Geomatics Engineering, Geospatial Science/Engineering, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), or an equivalent qualification.
- Postgraduate Diploma in Geothermal Energy Technology or an equivalent qualification will be an added advantage.
- Supervisory training lasting at least two weeks.
- Membership in the Geological Society of Kenya (GSK) or another recognized professional body.
- Proficiency in computer applications.
- Compliance with Chapter Six of the Constitution of Kenya.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit a comprehensive application before the stated deadline. Applications should include an up-to-date Curriculum Vitae (CV), a detailed cover letter explaining suitability for the position, certified academic and professional certificates, evidence of completion of a Postgraduate Diploma in Geothermal Energy Technology (where applicable), proof of supervisory training, and a valid membership certificate from the Geological Society of Kenya (GSK) or another recognized professional body. Applicants who are shortlisted will be required to provide valid clearance certificates in compliance with Chapter Six of the Constitution of Kenya, including a Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Tax Compliance Certificate, Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Certificate of Good Conduct, Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) Compliance Certificate where applicable, Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) Self-Declaration Form, and a Credit Reference Bureau (CRB) Clearance Certificate or Credit Report. Only candidates who satisfy all advertised requirements and submit complete application documents within the prescribed timeline will be considered. GDC is an equal opportunity employer committed to merit-based recruitment and encourages applications from qualified individuals who are passionate about advancing renewable energy development through scientific excellence and innovation.