About GDC

Geothermal Development Company (GDC) is a wholly-owned state corporation in the Republic of Kenya. Established in 2008 following the unbundling of the energy sector, GDC operates within the generation sub-sector with the mandate to fast-track the development of geothermal resources in Kenya.

Position Overview

Grade: GDC 3

Reference Number: GDC/HRM/DI/DO/MDO/01/2026

Job Purpose

The Manager – Drilling Operations will lead and coordinate GDC's deep-well geothermal drilling campaigns, ensuring that wells are drilled safely, cost-effectively, and in compliance with international drilling standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and supervise all geothermal drilling, workover, and well completion operations.
• Oversee the performance, maintenance, and deployment of GDC’s heavy-duty drilling rigs and auxiliary equipment.
• Review and approve drilling programs, casing designs, mud programs, and cementing designs.
• Ensure strict adherence to drilling safety protocols, environmental regulations, and emergency response guidelines on the rig site.
• Manage contracts with drilling service providers, material suppliers, and technical consultants.
• Monitor drilling costs and schedules to ensure targets are achieved within the allocated budget.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Petroleum, Civil, or Mining Engineering from a recognized institution.
• Registered Professional Engineer with the Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK) or equivalent body.
• Minimum of 8–10 years of active experience in deep-well rotary drilling operations, with at least 3 years in a leadership position.
• Advanced certifications in Well Control (e.g., IWCF/IADC) are mandatory.
• Strong logistical coordination, crisis management, and contractor management skills.

• Manage and supervise all geothermal drilling, workover, and well completion operations.
• Oversee the performance, maintenance, and deployment of GDC’s heavy-duty drilling rigs and auxiliary equipment.
• Review and approve drilling programs, casing designs, mud programs, and cementing designs.
• Ensure strict adherence to drilling safety protocols, environmental regulations, and emergency response guidelines on the rig site.
• Manage contracts with drilling service providers, material suppliers, and technical consultants.
• Monitor drilling costs and schedules to ensure targets are achieved within the allocated budget.

• Strong logistical coordination
• Crisis management
• Contractor management skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Petroleum, Civil, or Mining Engineering from a recognized institution.
• Registered Professional Engineer with the Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK) or equivalent body.
• Advanced certifications in Well Control (e.g., IWCF/IADC) are mandatory.