Associate Reservoir Engineer or Reservoir Engineer (depending on qualifications)

Associate Reservoir Engineer or Reservoir Engineer (depending on qualifications)

Illinois State Geological Survey
Prairie Research Institute
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

We are seeking an individual to fill one position. The successful individual’s qualifications will determine the level to which he/she is appointed.

The Associate Reservoir Engineer will conduct research on carbon dioxide (CO2) enhanced oil recovery (EOR) and storage including modeling of subsurface fluid flow and assessment of reservoir suitability for sequestration based on reservoir engineering principles. Conduct basic reservoir engineering analyses. Participate in site screening process and data collection. Work with geoscientists to improve geocellular models. Characterize reservoirs by working with the distribution of porosity, permeability, productivity, injectivity, and similar parameters, and all aspects of predicting pressure and fluid distributions. Calibrate reservoir models to historically-observed field measurements and project CO2 EOR and storage. Work with staff to interpret model results. Provide general reservoir engineering and characterization expertise to other ISGS projects. Prepare presentations, project reports, and journal publications. Work and communicate with ISGS reservoir engineering and geologic staff, and third parties such as oil field operators, service companies, and subcontractors. Write and contribute to proposals to acquire external funding. Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in petroleum engineering, chemical engineering, or related discipline. Graduate degree is preferred. Seven (7) years related industry, academic, and/or research experience post-bachelor’s degree. Demonstrated skills in conducting original and high quality reservoir engineering and fluid flow modeling research projects, natural gas storage, CO2 sequestration, or coalbed methane and/or multi-phase contaminant transport preferred. Ability to communicate research results effectively through high quality reports, publications, and presentations. Skills in word processing, spreadsheet, and reservoir simulation software. Ability to organize and execute research tasks.Ability to prioritize, accomplish tasks, and meet deadlines. Ability to work independently. Good communication skills to establish friendly, open, and clear communication with others. Ability and willingness to effectively contribute as part of a team.

The Associate Petroleum Geologist level will conduct research on carbon dioxide (CO2) enhanced oil recovery (EOR) and storage including modeling of subsurface fluid flow and assessment of reservoir suitability for sequestration based on reservoir engineering principles. Conduct reservoir engineering analyses. Participate in site screening process and data collection. Work with geoscientists to improve geocellular models. Develop predictive models of pressure fronts and brine displacement as part of the environmental impact assessment process for one or more selected sites. Develop models of reservoir quality and its distribution. Characterize reservoirs by working with the distribution of porosity, permeability, productivity, injectivity, and similar parameters, and all aspects of predicting pressure and fluid distributions. Calibrate reservoir models to historically-observed field measurements and project CO2 EOR and storage. Interpret model results. Monitor the selected site during injection as well as the collection of data that will validate reservoir models with the goal of assuring the integrity of the site. Provide reservoir engineering and characterization expertise to other ISGS projects. Develop and pursue externally funded research projects in the areas of innovative energy and environmental technologies. Prepare presentations, proposals, reports, and journal manuscripts. Participate in presentations and meetings. Respond to requests by staff, agencies, industry, and the public. Qualifications: Master’s degree in petroleum engineering, chemical engineering, or related discipline. Ph.D. is preferred. Twelve (12) years industry, academic, and/or research experience post-bachelor’s degree. Demonstrated skills in conducting original and high quality reservoir engineering and fluid flow modeling research projects, natural gas storage, CO2 sequestration, or coalbed methane and/or multi-phase contaminant transport preferred. Ability to communicate research results effectively through high quality reports, publications, and presentations. Skills in word processing, spreadsheet, and reservoir simulation software. Ability to organize and execute research tasks. Ability to prioritize, accomplish tasks, and meet deadlines. Ability to work independently. Good communication skills to establish friendly, open, and clear communication with others. Ability and willingness to effectively contribute as part of a team.

The work of this position (either level) takes place in an office setting and in the field. Must be able to sit for extended periods of time working at a computer, using a keyboard and mouse, and using repetitive hand motions. Must be able to visit field locations that may be under less than ideal conditions.

This is a regular full-time academic professional position subject to the availability of continued funding and programmatic need. The starting date is negotiable after the closing date. Salary is commensurate with experience.

Applications must be received by by March 15, 2013; however, the position will remain open until filled. To apply, all candidates must submit an online profile through jobs.illinois.edu by the close of the posting period. Qualified candidates must upload a letter of application which details qualifications noted above, résumé, and the names, addresses, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses of three professional references. All requested information must be submitted for your application to be considered. Incomplete information will not be reviewed. For further information please contact Lori Walston-Vonderharr, Human Resources, Illinois State Geological Survey, at lwalston@illinois.edu or 217-244-2401.

The University of Illinois is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes individuals with diverse backgrounds,
experiences, and ideas who embrace and value diversity and inclusivity. (www.inclusiveillinois.illinois.edu)

Updated 02/05/2013 mj