Principal Reservoir Engineer

Role Overview

As the Principal Gas Reservoir Engineer, you will spearhead comprehensive gas reservoir evaluations, model development, and provide high-level technical counsel on gas drainage design. Your expertise will support resource and reserve assessments for both conventional petroleum and coal seam gas reservoirs.

You will collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams including geologists, geophysicists, production engineers, and environmental professionals to deliver robust technical outcomes that guide project development and investment strategies. Transitioning from operational responsibilities to consultancy, your focus will narrow to high-impact reservoir engineering tasks.

Key Duties

• Lead reservoir engineering and simulation initiatives for conventional petroleum and coal seam gas fields.
• Develop, validate, and update both static and dynamic geological reservoir models.
• Analyze reservoir performance, model forecasts, and assist in planning field developments.
• Conduct resource and reserve evaluations compliant with recognised industry standards.
• Appraise reservoir management plans, identify production optimisation opportunities, and review recovery processes.
• Deliver expert technical due diligence and independent advice to clients and stakeholders.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and client-focused deliverables.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to enhancing the consultancy’s technical expertise.
• Engage in business development efforts, including proposal drafting and maintaining client relations.

Candidate Profile

• Possess a Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering or a related field.
• Have a minimum of 5 years reservoir engineering experience in consulting, operations, or both.
• Proven abilities in reservoir simulation and modeling for petroleum and coal seam gas reservoirs.
• Strong knowledge of reservoir characterization, pressure data interpretation, forecasting, and reserves calculation.
• Familiarity with industry-standard reservoir simulation and modeling tools.
• Excellent technical writing capabilities and communication skills with clients.

Preferred Qualifications

• Chartered Engineer status or equivalent professional certification.
• Experience preparing Competent Person Reports or independent reserves evaluations.
• Established networks in mining, oil and gas, or energy sectors.
• Regional experience in Australian petroleum and coal seam gas basins.

Company Background

Palaris is an independent consulting firm serving the mining sector, partnering with resource operators, financial institutions, and equity investors. Our work combines technical understanding with capital investment decisions, focusing on clear and practical optimization.

Benefits

• Flexible work schedule based on a 9-day fortnight.
• Performance-aligned bonus system.
• Work locations in lifestyle-friendly cities: Wollongong, Newcastle, or Brisbane.

Additional Information

Applicants must have permanent work authorization to work in Australia; visa sponsorship is not available for this role.