Job Description

Research and Development Manager (Oil & Gas) – National Oil Company of Malawi (NOCMA)

Company: National Oil Company of Malawi
Location: Malawi – Lilongwe (Head Office)
Job Type: Full Time
Job Code: RDS2026
Department: Research & Development
Reports To: Director of Corporate Services
Application Deadline: 18 Dec 2026

Job Overview

The Research and Development Manager (Oil & Gas) will lead strategic innovation, energy research, and operational improvement initiatives for the National Oil Company of Malawi (NOCMA). This senior management role is designed for an experienced professional with expertise in oil and gas operations, petroleum engineering, research management, energy sustainability, project management, market analysis, innovation strategy, compliance, and stakeholder engagement.

The successful candidate will oversee research and technological advancement projects, helping NOCMA strengthen fuel security, improve operational efficiency, and align with national energy policies. This is an excellent opportunity for professionals seeking executive oil and gas jobs in Malawi, petroleum management careers, energy sector leadership roles, fuel supply chain jobs, engineering management opportunities, and research-based government jobs in Africa.

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Research and Development Manager Jobs in Malawi

The Research and Development Manager will play a critical role in advancing innovation across upstream, midstream, and downstream petroleum operations. The role focuses on technology adoption, policy implementation, strategic planning, sustainability, fuel systems optimization, operational efficiency, energy research, and partnership development.

This position is ideal for professionals experienced in petroleum engineering, chemical engineering, energy systems, oil and gas innovation, business strategy, research coordination, and regulatory compliance.

Key Job Responsibilities

Strategic Research & Innovation

• Develop and implement research and development strategies to improve operational performance across the oil and gas value chain.
• Drive innovation initiatives supporting petroleum product supply, fuel storage, energy efficiency, and process optimization.
• Conduct research into emerging energy technologies, oil market trends, renewable energy integration, and petroleum innovations.
• Recommend technological improvements to support long-term organizational growth.

Oil & Gas Operational Development

• Coordinate strategic systems and programmes across upstream, midstream, and downstream petroleum operations.
• Analyze the economic, operational, and environmental impact of oil and gas activities.
• Promote the adoption of digital technologies, data analytics, automation, and sustainable operational practices.

Stakeholder Engagement & Partnerships

• Build relationships with government ministries, regulators, international energy partners, petroleum agencies, and research institutions.
• Lead negotiations and management of Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs), contracts, and technical agreements.
• Collaborate with local and global stakeholders to strengthen fuel security, petroleum infrastructure, and energy policy implementation.

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Compliance, Safety & Sustainability

• Ensure all R&D activities align with environmental regulations, health and safety standards, and legal compliance frameworks.
• Promote sustainable fuel systems, environmental responsibility, energy conservation, and regulatory best practices.
• Support NOCMA’s commitment to safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible operations.

Reporting & Strategic Analysis

• Prepare technical reports, strategic recommendations, and research findings for executive management.
• Conduct market intelligence, industry benchmarking, risk analysis, and feasibility studies to guide investment decisions.
• Present evidence-based recommendations for policy and operational improvement.

Education Requirements

Applicants should possess:

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Petroleum Studies, Petroleum Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Energy Studies, or a related discipline from a recognized institution.
• A Master’s Degree in a relevant field will be considered an added advantage.
• Professional certifications in:
  • Project Management (PMP)
  • Innovation Management
  • Research & Development Management
  • Energy systems or petroleum management

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Experience Requirements

To qualify for this role, candidates should have:

• Minimum 8 years of cumulative professional experience in oil and gas, petroleum, energy, or industrial sectors.
• At least 5 years in a comparable management or leadership role.
• Membership in a recognized professional engineering or energy-related body for at least five years.
• Strong background in:
  • Oil and gas research
  • Petroleum systems management
  • Energy project implementation
  • Technical innovation
  • Process optimization
  • Strategic planning
  • Policy implementation

Required Skills & Competencies

The ideal candidate should demonstrate:

• Strategic leadership and business planning
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent technical knowledge of petroleum operations
• Expertise in stakeholder management and negotiations
• Effective communication and presentation abilities
• Knowledge of energy regulations, compliance, sustainability, and environmental standards
• Strong project coordination and performance management skills

Salary and Benefits

Salary: Attractive and competitive remuneration package commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Additional benefits may include:

• Executive career growth opportunities
• Professional development and leadership training
• Exposure to national strategic energy projects
• Industry networking and partnership opportunities
• Skills enhancement in oil & gas research, energy management, and sustainability

Training & Career Development

NOCMA supports continuous professional growth through:

• Leadership and management training
• Petroleum industry certifications
• Research and innovation workshops
• Strategic energy management programmes
• Technical compliance and safety training
• Industry conferences and stakeholder engagement initiatives

Why Join NOCMA?

Joining NOCMA means contributing to Malawi’s national fuel security, energy sustainability, and petroleum innovation agenda. The company offers an opportunity to shape the future of the country’s oil and gas industry while working on high-impact national projects.

NOCMA is committed to equal employment opportunities, workplace diversity, gender inclusion, professional excellence, and sustainable development.

Application Process

Interested and qualified candidates should submit:

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Cover Letter
• Copies of academic and professional certificates
• Proof of professional body membership (where applicable)
• Contact details of three traceable referees

Applications should clearly indicate Job Code: RDS2026 in the email subject line or application envelope.

Deadline for Applications: 18 Dec 2026.