NSTA 439 Senior Geoscientist (Geomechanics)

About Operations

This directorate is responsible for the overall stewardship of oil and gas development and production on the UK Continental Shelf (UKCS). It oversees the asset stewardship process and development of area plans on the UKCS, working closely with operators and licensees to maximise economic recovery (MER UK), whilst supporting the drive to net zero carbon by 2050. The NSTA is also the licensing authority for offshore carbon dioxide storage licences. The operations directorate is responsible for the stewardship of carbon storage licences through to approval and issue of a carbon storage permit. These are required to allow for the storage of CO₂ in a storage site with a view to its permanent containment, thereby directly supporting the drive to net zero carbon by 2050. In addition, the directorate is responsible for the licensing and development of methane gas storage opportunities offshore.

We aim to create a diverse team of talented, committed individuals who are supported to develop their capability in a dynamic, busy organisation whilst promoting a positive work life balance. The NSTA considers that this role could be filled by successful candidates from a broad range of technical backgrounds. We encourage applicants to creatively consider the transferrable skills, experience and knowledge they may bring to help us on our mission to deliver the energy transition.

Our goal is that the NSTA continues to be a ‘Great Place to Work’. Offering a flexible 37-hour week working environment with hybrid model (40% office working) and up to 2 accruable flex days per month. Work life balance is very important to us with a workplace culture that fosters collaboration, respect, and professionalism. In addition, we offer a range of benefits including a competitive pension - employer contribution (28.97%).

Brief overview of role

This is a high-profile role for a talented Senior Geoscientist with a specialism in geomechanics to work closely with UKCS operators to deliver the NSTA Strategy for the UK and support the industry to achieve the net zero target.

This role will primarily focus on carbon capture and storage (CCS) projects and will encompass stewardship of operators working on all phases of a carbon storage licence (CS licence). This includes supporting the licence application process and stewardship of the Assess and Define phases of a CCS project, through to storage permit approval and operational injection of CO₂ supporting the drive to net zero carbon by 2050. The team are also responsible for stewarding late life assets which are on a pathway to CO₂ Storage; so some hydrocarbon stewardship may be required.

In addition to a first degree, or equivalent, in a relevant geoscience or scientific discipline and a qualification and/or significant practical experience in geomechanics, the successful candidate will be able to demonstrate considerable technical, leadership, strategic, commercial and joint venture experience. Previous experience in CCS activities or other energy sectors is desirable.

This role requires a team player with a proactive approach and the ability to manage a high level of responsibility. You will also need strong communication, interpersonal and influencing skills as well as technical expertise and credibility to win the respect of both colleagues and industry representatives.

You will be required to work closely with other members of the UK Carbon Transportation and Storage Team and also more widely across the NSTA organisation.

Detailed job description and key responsibilities

Reporting to the CTS Stewardship Lead, your key responsibilities will include:

• Be the Subject Matter Expert (SME) for geomechanics which will result in provision of input to all CCS processes for geomechanics and to support geomechanics learning and understanding across the NSTA.
• Lead stewardship of CS licences post Site Characterisation to the point a licensee is in a position to submit a storage permit application.
• Ensure all risks of a carbon storage development have been addressed, including the risk of leakage and that the storage site is characterised effectively, it is a feasible development, and monitoring and corrective measures plans have been identified.
• Provide technical input in assessing carbon storage permit applications.
• Steward carbon storage permits and the operational phase of CO₂ injection, monitoring and corrective measures.
• Assist the New Ventures Team in evaluating carbon storage licence applications with a view to support the drive to net zero carbon by 2050.
• Support the New Ventures Team in stewardship of Early Risk Assessments and Site Characterisation of CS licences.
• Collaborate in developing and issuing carbon storage policy and guidance as the CCS industry evolves.
• Participate in and occasionally organise industry seminars and workgroups.
• Stewardship of late life oil and gas assets transitioning to a carbon storage development.

Depending on your background and expertise, you may also have the opportunity to contribute to:

• Establish and maintain effective relationships with other Government Departments, Agencies and Non-Governmental Organisations.
• Provide advice to other directorates within the NSTA or other Government Departments on the carbon storage implications of other offshore activity, e.g., oil and gas, windfarms.
• Brief senior management, internal and external, both written and verbal, on policy and technical matters.

Person specification

Competence 1:          Decision Making and Judgement

Ability to make complex decisions ensuring policies and procedures are adhered to. Accept responsibility for own actions. Well-developed analytical skills and sound judgement to manage varied and sometimes complex issues. Ability to document rationale and outcome of decisions.

Competence 2:          Delivery

Have the ability to work in a fast-paced environment; have an aptitude for working on numerous projects simultaneously and the ability to identify and respond to new priorities. Have the ability to maintain an overarching view of the activities of an operator and identify the key areas where effective stewardship will support the achievement of the net zero targets.

Competence 3:          Collaborating, Influencing & Leading

Meet challenges with resourcefulness, generate suggestions for improving work and develop innovative approaches and ideas. Proven leadership skills and ability to develop creative, innovative and strategic thinking to the role and to articulate a vision. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to influence are essential. Mentor and coach to others; unlocking potential and maximising performance.

Competence 4: Strategic & Commercial Thinking

Have the ability to maintain an overarching view of the activities of an operator and identify the key areas where effective stewardship will facilitate the development of the UK’s carbon storage industry in support of the move to net zero carbon. Negotiating and influencing skills are also critical.

Specialist Skills, Qualifications, Experience, Licences, Memberships or Language

Essential:  

• Degree, or equivalent qualification, in a relevant geoscience or scientific discipline.
• A specialism in geomechanics, particularly where applied to CCS activities.
• A strong technical background in oil and gas field development in the upstream UK oil and gas industry or carbon capture and storage activities and an ability to demonstrate a high level of competence in the application of geoscience and geomechanics skills.
• Experience of presenting with executive management, government bodies, Joint Venture (JV) partners and other external stakeholders.
• Project Management experience in multi-disciplinary/cross organisation teams.
• Be fully versed with NSTA Carbon Storage Guidelines and Regulations.

Desirable: 

• Regulatory knowledge, although training in this area will be provided.
• Experience in other energy sectors.
• Understanding of risk analysis techniques would be a benefit.

• International perspective or experience.
• Significant experience of JV management/leadership ideally in an operator company.