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Vacancy title:
Research and Development Manager
[Type: FULL_TIME, Industry: Professional Services, Category: Management, Science & Engineering, Business Operations, Energy & Mining, Civil & Government]
Jobs at:
National Oil Company of Malawi (NOCMA)
Deadline of this Job:
Saturday, April 18 2026
Duty Station:
Lilongwe | Lilongwe
Summary
Date Posted: Wednesday, April 8 2026, Base Salary: Not Disclosed
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Learn more about National Oil Company of Malawi (NOCMA)
National Oil Company of Malawi (NOCMA) jobs in Malawi
JOB DETAILS:
Background
The National Oil Company of Malawi (NOCMA) is a wholly owned Government of Malawi company established under the Companies Act of 1984 on 10 December 2010. The Company commenced operations in 2012 with the primary objective of ensuring security of fuel supply in Malawi.
NOCMA is responsible for the importation of petroleum products and serves as Government’s agent in managing the Country’s Strategic Fuel Reserves (SFRs) located in Blantyre, Lilongwe, and Mzuzu, as well as other depots in Chilumba, Chipoka, and Mchinji.
Over the past fourteen (14) years, the Company has grown significantly in national strategic importance. Its fuel importation market share increased from ten percent (10%) in 2015 to an average of seventy-seven (77%) in the 2025/2026 financial year. This growth has been matched by strengthened institutional capacity and strategic investments to enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness.
In pursuit of sustained performance and excellence in delivering its mandate, NOCMA invites applications from suitably qualified and experienced candidates to fill the following positions.
An attractive remuneration package commensurate with experience and qualifications will be offered to the successful candidates, with an opportunity to build a meaningful executive career within the oil and gas industry.
PURPOSE
The R&D Manager leads and oversees research and innovation initiatives, driving technological advancements and process improvements to enhance NOCMA’s competitiveness, sustainability, and performance in the oil and gas sector.
KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Develop, coordinate, and implement strategic policies, systems, and programs across upstream, midstream, and downstream operations.
Lead research and innovation initiatives to advance technological solutions, operational efficiency, and process optimization.
Analyze the economic, environmental, and operational impact of oil and gas activities on NOCMA and the national economy.
Forge and maintain strategic partnerships with government agencies, industry stakeholders, research institutions, and international experts.
Oversee the negotiation, drafting, and management of contracts, MOUs, and agreements related to R&D and technology deployment.
Conduct market, technological, and industry research to identify emerging trends, opportunities, and risks in the oil and gas sector.
Promote the adoption of innovative solutions, digital technologies, and sustainable practices across NOCMA operations.
Support capacity building, knowledge transfer, and training initiatives to strengthen internal R&D capabilities.
Ensure all R&D activities comply with national regulations, international standards, and environmental, health, and safety requirements.
Contribute to the strategic development and sustainability of Malawi’s oil and gas industry in alignment with national energy policies.
REPORTING LINE AND SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY
The position reports to the Director of Corporate Services and has no supervisory responsibility.
THE PERSON
The required candidate should have the following competences:
Strategic Thinking and Leadership – Leads teams and initiatives with a clear vision, aligning actions to organizational goals.
Planning and Performance Management – Effectively plans, prioritizes, and monitors activities to achieve key objectives.
Technical Expertise – Applies deep knowledge of oil and gas technologies, exploration, and innovation to drive results.
Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills – Analyses complex data and challenges to develop practical, effective solutions
Stakeholder Engagement and Partnerships – Builds and maintains strategic relationships with government, industry, and research partners.
Communication and Reporting – Prepares and presents clear, professional reports and recommendations to inform decision-making
Regulatory, Compliance, and Sustainability Awareness – Ensures all activities adhere to legal, safety, and environmental standards while promoting sustainable practices.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
Bachelor’s degree in Petroleum Studies (Oil and Gas), Petroleum Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Energy Studies, or related field from an accredited institution. Possession of a master’s degree in a relevant field will be an added advantage.
Professional certifications in Research & Development, Project Management (PMP), or Innovation Management are desirable.
At least five (5) years of full & current membership of a relevant professional body.
A minimum of eight (8) years’ cumulative work experience, five (5) of which should have been spent in a comparable role.
Work Hours: 8
Experience in Months: 12
Level of Education: bachelor degree
Job application procedure
Interested in applying for this job? Click here to submit your application now.
Interested candidates who meet the required qualifications and experience should send applications with cover letter, copies of certificates, detailed curriculum vitae (CV), proof of membership of professional body (where this is stipulated as a requirement), names, addresses and phone contact numbers of three traceable referees to the following address:
The Chief Executive Officer
National Oil Company of Malawi
4th Floor, Kang’ombe House, City Centre
Private Bag 370
Lilongwe
Attention: The Human Resources & Administration Manager
Applicants should state clearly on the envelope or in the subject line of an mail, the Code for the Post they are applying for.
The closing date for receipt of applications is 18th April 2026
In line with the Gender Equality Act of 2013, female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. NOCMA is committed to promoting diversity and ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants.
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