Technical & Urban Planning Lead at WTS Energy

Job Summary:

• WTS Energy is seeking a Line Manager to lead integrated technical and urban planning initiatives that support upstream oil and gas field development and community integration. The role is within a leading upstream oil and gas operator focused on sustainable field re-entry projects in the Niger Delta region. This position involves providing expert input into field development plans, facilities design, and infrastructure layout while ensuring alignment with urban masterplans and regulatory requirements. The Line Manager will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders to balance operational efficiency with community development goals. Candidates can expect to drive strategic planning efforts, manage third-party consultants, and champion sustainable development practices in a socially sensitive environment.

Responsibilities:

• Lead integrated technical and urban planning initiatives to support field development and community integration objectives for key projects.
• Provide expert input into field development plans, facilities engineering design, site selection, and infrastructure layout to optimize operational efficiency and align with community needs.
• Collaborate effectively with multi-disciplinary teams including reservoir engineers, civil and facilities engineers, construction managers, and government and community stakeholders.
• Translate subsurface data and production forecasts into sustainable infrastructure plans that promote long-term economic development of host communities.
• Ensure project activities comply with urban masterplans, environmental and social impact assessments, and regulatory requirements.
• Identify potential risks related to land use, infrastructure development, stakeholder engagement, and community initiatives, and develop appropriate mitigation strategies.
• Champion land use planning, resettlement strategy development, and right-of-way acquisition processes in accordance with local laws and global best practices.
• Facilitate regulatory permitting processes and maintain liaison with government agencies, community leadership, and relevant ministries.
• Supervise and guide third-party consultants, urban planners, and engineering contractors to ensure technical designs and community interface aspects meet company standards and sustainability expectations.

Qualifications:

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Petroleum Engineering, Facilities Engineering, Urban and Regional Planning, Civil Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in upstream oil and gas operations, with substantial involvement in infrastructure planning, facilities development, and community interface projects.
• Strong technical expertise in upstream field development processes, including subsurface planning, well placement, facility layout, and surface infrastructure design.
• Solid understanding of urban planning principles, zoning, land use management, and regional development frameworks applicable to the Niger Delta region.
• Proven experience in stakeholder engagement, land acquisition, and community development within oil and gas contexts.
• Comprehensive knowledge of Nigerian regulatory frameworks governing oil and gas operations, including agencies such as DPR/NUPRC, NOSDRA, and FMEnv.
• Proficiency in planning and GIS software tools such as AutoCAD Civil 3D, ArcGIS, and MS Project.
• Demonstrated project management capabilities with experience leading multidisciplinary teams, managing complex timelines, and delivering results.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of effectively managing technical discussions and community relations.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and leadership skills, with a commitment to sustainable development and ethical practices.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Urban Planning, Project Management, Energy Economics, or a related field.
• Prior experience with field re-entry or marginal field development projects in the Niger Delta region.
• Professional certifications or memberships such as COREN, NSE, NITP, or equivalent industry-recognized bodies.
• Experience supervising third-party consultants, urban planners, and engineering contractors in integrated technical and community interface projects.

What We Offer:

• Comprehensive professional development opportunities within a leading upstream oil and gas environment focused on sustainable field development and community integration.
• Engagement in multidisciplinary projects that foster collaboration across technical, engineering, and community stakeholder teams.
• Exposure to advanced planning tools and methodologies, including GIS and infrastructure design software.
• Active involvement in socially responsible operations that align with environmental, regulatory, and community development standards.
• Leadership roles that emphasize strategic planning, risk management, and regulatory compliance in complex project settings.
• Supportive work environment that values integrity, sustainable development, and impactful community engagement.