Principal Geologist

CNOOC Chief Scientist Research LabFull-time | Annual Salary: $100,000 - $170,000 | Hiring nowLanguage: Professional proficiency in Mandarin Chinese, both spoken and written, is required.Join a research team working at the frontier of offshore exploration science and technology. The CNOOC Chief Scientist Research Lab is recruiting experienced geoscientists to advance research in structural geology, deep reservoir geology, and emerging marine resources across offshore China.Open positions

• Chief Structural Geology Scientist - 8+ years relevant experience - Basin formation, multi-dynamics and multi-sphere coupling, resource accumulation
• Chief Reservoir Geology Scientist - 8+ years relevant experience - Deep reservoirs, high geothermal gradients, fluid-rock reactions
• Senior Structural Geology Scientist - 5+ years relevant experience - Tectonically active basins, structural geology, basin evolution
• Senior Non-hydrocarbon Resources Scientist - 5+ years relevant experience - Hydrogen, helium, lithium, and marine mineral resourcesNote: Experience requirements may be adjusted for exceptional candidates. For exceptionally qualified candidates, annual salary may be negotiated beyond the stated range.About the labOur research focuses on: Hydrocarbon exploration in deepwater and deep formations offshore China.Emerging resources including hydrogen, helium, lithium, and marine mineral deposits.Fundamental geoscience theories, key exploration technologies, and practical application of research outcomes.High-level scientific collaboration, talent development, and academic exchange.Our MissionWe aspire to become a globally leading innovation engine at the intersection of AI and energy. By using AI to expand the boundaries of scientific understanding and innovation to shape the future of energy, our work is centered on three strategic priorities:Go Deeper, Go Offshore: Advance exploration of deep and ultra-deep formations and deepwater and ultra-deepwater hydrocarbons. Build AI-driven digital basin and intelligent interpretation systems that strengthen the technological foundation for energy security.Explore the Future: Extend AI into emerging marine resources, including natural gas hydrates and seabed minerals, as well as clean-energy applications such as intelligent operations and maintenance for offshore wind and AI-driven discovery of new energy materials. Our goal is to open new pathways for the energy transition.Lead the Paradigm: Develop proprietary, industry-grade AI foundation models for the energy sector, making AI scalable infrastructure that can empower research, exploration, and operations across the industry.Our CultureWe operate an agile R&D model led by Chief Scientists, combining frontier exploration with demand-driven problem solving and focused research programs with flexible, challenge-based project leadership. We believe exceptional scientists thrive with autonomy, trust, and ambitious challenges. Here, every idea and line of code can help reshape an industry, and every breakthrough can contribute expertise and innovation to global sustainable development.Chief Structural Geology ScientistWhat you will do Lead research on basin formation mechanisms and resource accumulation under multi-dynamics and multi-sphere coupling in offshore China.Define technical roadmaps, research priorities, and implementation plans for structural geology.Initiate and lead high-impact research projects addressing major scientific and technical challenges.Promote academic exchange and translate research outcomes into scientific and exploration impact.What we are looking for Ph.D. in structural geology or a closely related discipline.Associate senior professional title or above in structural geology.Strong record of leading research projects and producing high-quality academic or technical outcomes.Experience with industry-sponsored oil and gas exploration research.Deep expertise in basin formation mechanisms and resource accumulation processes.2. Chief Reservoir Geology Scientist What you will do Develop research plans and technical roadmaps for deep reservoir geology in offshore China basins with high geothermal gradients.Track global advances in deep reservoir formation mechanisms and convert frontier research into actionable research programs.Initiate and execute research projects addressing key scientific and technical challenges in deep reservoir geology.Advance interdisciplinary research on fluid-rock reactions and reservoir formation controls, and promote application of research outcomes.What we are looking forAssociate senior professional title or above in reservoir geology.Strong record of leading research projects and producing high-quality academic or technical outcomes.Experience with industry-sponsored oil and gas exploration research.Expertise in reservoir geology fundamentals, analytical methods, and deep reservoir research workflows.3. Senior Structural Geology ScientistWhat you will doConduct research on the structural geology of tectonically active basins offshore China.Track, evaluate, and apply global advances, technologies, and methods in structural geology.Develop research priorities and project plans for structural geology in offshore China basins.Synthesize, disseminate, and support practical application of research findings and technical advances.What we are looking forPh.D. in structural geology or a related discipline.Intermediate professional title or above in structural geology.Experience conducting research projects, including academic writing and technical presentations.Experience with industry-sponsored oil and gas exploration research.Proficiency in analyzing basin formation mechanisms under multi-dynamics and multi-sphere coupling.4. Senior Non-hydrocarbon Resources ScientistWhat you will doTrack global exploration advances in marine hydrogen, helium, lithium resources, and mineral deposits, and contribute to research planning.Conduct research on exploration theories, methods, and technologies for emerging marine resources.Organize academic exchanges and promote dissemination and application of research outcomes.Lead or support the development of standardization systems and technical frameworks for resource exploration and assessment.What we are looking forPh.D. in geology, resource exploration, or a closely related discipline.Intermediate professional title or above in marine non-hydrocarbon resource exploration or a related field.Experience conducting research projects, including academic writing and technical presentations.Experience with industry-sponsored exploration projects involving emerging marine resources.Proficiency in exploration and resource assessment of hydrogen, helium, lithium, and marine mineral deposits.Ideal Candidate ProfileStrong scientific judgment and the ability to conduct independent, high-quality research.Ability to connect frontier research with real-world exploration needs and technical applications.Excellent communication, collaboration, and cross-disciplinary coordination skills.Strong research integrity, confidentiality awareness, and team-oriented mindset.Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Please include the position title you are applying for and attach your CV/resume. A brief summary of relevant research, technical achievements, or selected publications is also welcome.Join us in advancing the next generation of offshore geoscience and resource exploration.