Engineering & Operations Lead at Sub-Sea 9 Gas Limited

At Sub-Sea 9 Gas Limited, we're building a clean energy future through the development of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) plants across Nigeria. Our new plant in Calabar is designed to unlock gas accessibility through modern infrastructure and mobile distribution systems, enabling lower-emission alternatives for industries, transport services, and underserved regions.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Engineering & Operations Lead

Location: Calabar, Cross River
Job Type: Full Time
Career level: Mid-to-Senior Level
Role Category: Engineering | Plant Operations | Maintenance | Business Development | Gas Distribution

About the Role

• We are seeking a hands-on, result-driven Engineering & Operations Lead to support the development and manage the technical and operational life cycle of our new CNG gas plant.
• This is a key technical role bridging engineering execution and plant operations. It spans from early-stage engineering and construction support to full ownership of operational and technical performance, maintenance planning, and product distribution.
• The ideal candidate combines strong engineering expertise, proven operational leadership, in-depth knowledge of plant maintenance, and the ability to support product sales and distribution planning.

Responsibilities
Development Phase:

• Support project planning, risk management, and cost control.
• Provide engineering support during the design, procurement, and construction of the plant.
• Review engineering drawings and documentation, equipment specifications, and vendor proposals to ensure alignment with operational goals.
• Assist in the evaluation and onboarding of key equipment vendors and technical service providers.
• Collaborate with engineering, procurement, and construction contractors, vendors, and consultants.
• Liaise with regulatory agencies for approvals and licenses, and prepare all technical documentation for statutory permits.
• Develop SOPs and operation and maintenance manuals in coordination with contractors and project teams.
• Present technical concepts and updates to executive leadership and partners.
• Contribute to research and development initiatives as well as continuous innovation.
• Ensure all deliverables are completed on time, within budget, and in line with project goals.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and operational standards.
• Lead the preparation of the commissioning schedule, test procedures, and validate key performance indicators.

Operations & Maintenance:

• Lead the day-to-day operational activities of the gas plant, ensuring safe, reliable, efficient operations and optimal system performance.
• Lead daily staff operations, shift management, inventory tracking, loss control, and vendor coordination.
• Develop a strong team with the highest safety & technical performance.
• Supervise plant personnel and ensure compliance with Health, Safety, and Environmental regulations.
• Monitor and troubleshoot system issues in real time to optimize plant efficiency and reliability.
• Plan preventive maintenance schedules, ensuring a swift response to all faults or issues at all times.
• Perform routine and preventive maintenance on compressors, PRS, pumps, valves, meters, rotating equipment, and various other machines and equipment.
• Conduct regular inspections of CNG systems, electrical equipment, and components to identify issues, hazards, defects, and the need for adjustments or repairs.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot mechanical and electrical problems with CNG systems, engines, and other related components.
• Maintain accurate records of maintenance and repair work performed at all times.
• Maintain and update reports, operating procedures, manuals, and technical documentation.
• Maintain high standards of fuel quality, gas purity, cylinder integrity, and workplace safety.
• Provide training and support to plant staff on CNG instrumentation and controls.
• Ensure all regulatory permits and licenses are acquired, maintained, and updated as required by law.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, health, safety, and environmental regulations in the plant.
• Stay updated on advancements in CNG technology and maintenance techniques.

Commercial & Product Support:

• Identify and qualify new business leads to expand the market reach.
• Provide technical support for customers' onboarding and product delivery.
• Monitor market trends and client feedback to identify areas for operational or technical improvements.
• Work closely with marketing and sales teams to develop and support new business opportunities from a technical and supply standpoint.
• Collaborate with the commercial team to align production with sales forecasts, customer demands, and the distribution schedule.
• Support product pricing strategies by providing technical input on distribution costs, operational efficiency, and supply reliability.
• Oversee the integration of metering and billing systems to ensure accurate product measurement and invoicing.
• Implement and monitor telemetry or SCADA systems for tracking product movement, trailer performance, and delivery conditions.
• Assist in developing technical proposals for commercial clients, including capacity, delivery options, and performance parameters.
• Review and approve technical aspects of supply contracts, including delivery terms, specifications, and quality standards.
• Engage with major customers and distributors to address technical queries, resolve issues, and strengthen service delivery.
• Ensure the safe and efficient loading process of CNG via real-time pressure, temperature, and flow control systems.
• Design and implement safety procedures and emergency response plans for gas distribution and mobile asset handling.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s in Mechanical, Chemical, Petroleum, or Process Engineering, or related degree.
• 8–10 years of experience in energy, gas processing, CNG infrastructure, and industrial plant operations.
• Experience in project execution and operational management.
• Strong knowledge of CNG/LPG systems, gas compression systems, process equipment, and plant utilities is highly preferred.
• Experience with SCADA, telemetry, and industrial control systems to support real-time monitoring, automation, and efficient plant operations.
• Great attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and ability to follow safety protocols.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills across technical and non-technical teams.
• Working knowledge of HSE standards and regulatory compliance in Nigeria’s energy sector.
• Ability to work independently in a dynamic, project-driven environment.
• Proven track record in plant operations, maintenance, and safety standards.
• Proficiency in troubleshooting and diagnostic procedures for mechanical, electrical , and process systems with accuracy and speed.
• Understanding and ability to design engineering drawings, P&IDs, and process flow diagrams.
• Prior experience managing or working in industrial gas production is highly desirable.
• Proven experience in leading cross-functional teams with a strong emphasis on accountability, performance delivery, and operational discipline.
• Experience collaborating with sales, distribution, or logistics teams to support end-to-end product delivery is a strong advantage.
• Understanding of the Nigerian gas market, client needs, and product logistics is a plus.
• Willing to be based full-time in Calabar, assuming full operational and technical ownership of site activities.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience..
• Performance-based bonuses or incentives.
• Health insurance and wellness coverage.
• Growth opportunities within a fast-growing energy company.
• Access to industry training, certifications, and technical development programs.
• The opportunity to shape the future of clean gas access in Nigeria.

Application Closing Date
Not Specified.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should send their CV and Cover Letter to: careers@sub-sea9gas.com using "Engineering and Operations Lead" as the subject of the email.