Technical & Urban Planning Lead at Sahara Group

Key Duties and Responsibility

• Lead integrated technical and urban planning initiatives in support of the Ogoni Re-entry Project’s field development and community integration goals.
• Provide expert planning input into field development plans (FDPs), facilities engineering design, site selection, and infrastructure layout to ensure operational efficiency and community alignment.
• Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams including reservoir engineers, civil/facilities engineers, construction managers, and government/community stakeholders.
• Translate subsurface data and production forecasts into viable infrastructure plans that support long-term sustainability and economic development of the community
• Align project activities with urban masterplans, environmental and social impact assessments, and regulatory guidelines.
• Identify risks and propose mitigative plans related to land use, infrastructure development, stakeholder engagement, and community development initiatives.
• Champion land use planning, resettlement strategy formulation, and right-of-way acquisition processes in compliance with Nigerian laws and global best practices.
• Facilitate regulatory permitting and liaise with government bodies, community leadership, and relevant ministries.
• Supervise and guide third-party consultants, urban planners, and engineering contractors working on technical design and community interface aspects.
• Ensure all plans meet company standards, sustainability expectations, and reflect responsible oil and gas operations in a socially sensitive environment.

Professional Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Petroleum Engineering, Facilities Engineering, Urban and Regional Planning, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
• Master’s degree in Urban Planning, Project Management, or Energy Economics is an added advantage.
• Minimum of 15 years relevant experience in oil and gas upstream operations with significant exposure to infrastructure planning, facilities development, or community interfacing projects.
• Demonstrated experience in field re-entry or marginal field development projects in the Niger Delta is highly preferred.
• COREN, NSE, NITP, or other relevant professional membership/certifications is an asset.

Knowledge & Skills Required

• Strong technical knowledge of upstream field development processes including subsurface planning, well placement, facility layout, and surface infrastructure.
• Solid understanding of urban planning principles, zoning, land use management, and regional development frameworks in Nigeria.
• Practical experience in interfacing with community development, land acquisition, and stakeholder engagement in the Niger Delta.
• Good understanding of regulatory processes related to oil and gas operations in Nigeria (DPR/NUPRC, NOSDRA, FMEnv, etc.).
• Working knowledge of environmental, social, and economic impact assessments and how they inform planning.
• Project management skills with the ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams, manage timelines, and drive deliverables.
• High proficiency in planning and GIS tools (AutoCAD Civil 3D, ArcGIS, MS Project, etc.).
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills – ability to manage both technical discussions and community engagements.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Demonstrated leadership, integrity, and commitment to sustainable development