Salamander Solutions is an innovative startup transforming production efficiency in the oil and gas industry with cutting-edge downhole electric heating technology. With deployments across the U.S., Canada, the Middle East, and Latin America, we’re rapidly expanding and pushing into offshore applications. We’re looking for a hands-on VP of Electrical Engineering to lead the advancement and deployment of our proprietary technology. This role is ideal for a technical expert with strong experience in medium voltage systems, power generation, and R&D commercialization.
This position requires on-site presence and monthly domestic and/or international travel up to 30%.
Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities:
Lead the end-to-end design, development, manufacturing, and testing of downhole and surface electrical heating systems, including heating cables, power supplies, instrumentation, controls, and distribution systems.
Interface directly with customers and operators to gather technical feedback, optimize system designs, and implement continuous improvements.
Collaborate cross-functionally with mechanical, software, and field teams to ensure seamless integration of electrical components into complete systems.
Provide strategic and technical leadership in electrical engineering, ensuring all solutions comply with relevant electrical codes, safety regulations, and industry standards (onshore and offshore).
Lead the offshore qualification and commercialization of Salamander's flowline heating technology, working closely with equipment vendors and certifying agencies.
Conduct rigorous testing, validation, and failure analysis under extreme environmental conditions.
Mentor and coach junior engineers, fostering a high-performance culture focused on technical excellence and innovation.
Stay ahead of emerging technologies and industry trends to maintain Salamander’s competitive edge and technology leadership.
Serve as the technical liaison with client-side engineers and SMEs, ensuring alignment with operational expectations and standards.
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, physics, or a related discipline required; master’s degree preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Minimum 15 years of experience in medium voltage electrical systems, with at least 5 years in leadership or VP-level roles.
Demonstrated success designing and implementing electrical solutions in heavy oil recovery, flowline heating, or similar energy applications.
In-depth knowledge of upstream oil and gas operations and associated electrical challenges, including offshore deployments.
Strong command of electrical design tools (e.g., AutoCAD), and deep familiarity with U.S. and international electrical codes, safety practices, and regulatory standards.
Proven ability to innovate and execute in complex, high-stakes engineering environments.
Effective communicator, capable of translating technical detail into clear, actionable guidance for both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Adaptive and proactive mindset suited to early-stage, fast-paced startups.
Strong leadership presence, with the ability to inspire, coach, and guide cross-functional engineering teams.
Excellent interpersonal skills with cultural sensitivity in international engagements.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with offshore electrical systems and related qualification processes.
Familiarity with oil and gas regulatory frameworks (e.g., IEC, API, CSA, UL).
Project management experience leading multi-disciplinary teams across multiple geographies.
Disclaimer: This job description is intended to summarize the type and level of work performed for this role and is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and/or requirements. Salamander reserves the right to change or modify this job description or the essential duties of the role as necessary.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Salamander is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. The Company’s Policy is not to discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, mental or physical disability, and genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable law. Harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories is prohibited.
