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Category
Subsea Engineering
Work Pattern
Onshore / Hybrid
Reports To
Subsea Project Manager / Tieback Lead
Position Overview
The Subsea Tieback Engineer specialises in the engineering and execution of subsea tieback projects — connecting new or marginal satellite fields to existing subsea infrastructure. Tiebacks represent the fastest-growing segment of subsea CAPEX, and this role demands the ability to work within the constraints of existing infrastructure while delivering cost-effective, accelerated schedules.
Key Responsibilities
- Engineer subsea tieback solutions connecting new wells to existing manifolds, flowlines, and host facilities.
- Assess existing subsea infrastructure capacity and compatibility for tieback integration.
- Develop tieback concept designs, including flowline routing, jumper configurations, and umbilical tie-ins.
- Prepare brownfield modification scopes for host facility tie-in (topside and subsea).
- Manage tieback project schedules, typically with accelerated timelines (12–18 months concept to first oil).
- Coordinate with flow assurance on production chemistry, hydrate management, and thermal performance for long tiebacks.
- Support installation engineering for tieback components, including spoolpiece and jumper deployment.
- Manage technical queries and deviations related to interface with existing subsea systems.
- Develop commissioning and startup procedures specific to tieback operations.
- Identify and mitigate risks unique to tieback projects, including live system interfaces and simops.
Qualifications
Required
- Education: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Subsea, or Petroleum Engineering.
- Certifications: BOSIET/FOET with CA-EBS; Offshore Medical.
- Experience: 4–10 years in subsea engineering with specific tieback project experience.
- Technical Skills: Knowledge of subsea tieback design codes; experience with brownfield interface management; understanding of host facility constraints and live-plant tie-in procedures.
Preferred
- Experience with long-distance tiebacks (>30 km) and associated flow assurance challenges.
- Familiarity with subsea distribution systems for tieback umbilicals.
- Project management certification (PMP or equivalent).
- Experience with subsea power distribution for subsea processing tiebacks.
Market Intelligence
$800–$1,200/day
Shortage Level: High
Key Skills Gap: Engineers who understand both the greenfield design requirements and the constraints of tying into existing brownfield infrastructure are scarce; live-system interface experience is a key differentiator.
Regions in Highest Demand: North Sea, Gulf of Mexico, Southeast Asia, West Africa
Demand Drivers: Tiebacks are the preferred development route for marginal fields; record sanctioning of tieback projects 2024–2027; cost advantage over standalone developments driving operator strategy.