Officer (Upstream Development)

Location: Petroleum Authority of Brunei Darussalam

Department: Legal

At Petroleum Authority of Brunei Darussalam (PA), we foster a culture of excellence, innovation and integrity. Our core values of Unity, Accountability and Excellence guide us in everything we do from ensuring safety and environmental stewardship to promoting collaboration and mutual respect. We believe in creating dynamic and supportive work environment where every team member's contribution is valued.  

We encourage open communication and teamwork, ensuring that every voice is heard and respected. Professional development is a priority, and we are committed to nurturing talent and promoting professional growth at the PA.  

We offer a competitive salary package, health insurance, generous, vacation times, education and housing support and opportunities for professional growth and development. PA is dedicated to providing a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees can flourish.  

Company Overview

Petroleum Authority of Brunei Darussalam is dedicated to ensuring the sustainable development of the nation's oil and gas resources. Our mission is to provide a regulatory framework that promotes safety, efficiency and environmental stewardship. We pride ourselves on our commitment to excellence, innovation and a supportive work culture.  

Job Summary

We seek a dedicated and experienced Senior Legal Counsel to join our Petroleum Authority of Brunei Darussalam team. He/she will provide legal advice and provide sound recommendations to all departments within the Authority and to assist and complement the works of all other legal officers. The Legal Counsel also responsible to provide legal support in execution of the Authority's regulatory purview in the upstream, midstream and downstream oil and gas industry. This position also responsible to provide legal support in the execution of the Authority's role as advisor to the Department of Energy at the Prime Minister's Office as well as to assist the Secretary to the Board of Directors for the Authority.

 

 Key Responsibilities

  • To provide advice, guidance and manage all legal issues involving the Authority, with the protection of the Authority's interests in mind.

  • To provide sound legal advice and recommendations to all departments within the Authority as well as the Department of Energy at the Prime Minister's Office (if required) on matters relating to the regulation and development of the oil and gas industry in Brunei Darussalam.

  • To assist the Senior Legal Counsel in all legal, regulatory and statutory compliance matters across the full value chain of the oil and gas industry.

  • To negotiate and draft contracts and other legal instruments with the primary objective to protect national interests and the Authority's interests and be responsible for the execution and implementation of such contracts and instruments.

  • To assist in drafting legislation and amendments to Acts/Orders as he/she may be assigned by the Head of Legal.

  • To assist in ensuring the legal, regulatory and statutory compliances of the Authority to any applicable laws.

  • To conduct research and draft legal opinions on matters for which he/she may be assigned by the Head of Legal or Senior Legal Counsel.

  • To assist in drafting any correspondences to be issued by the Authority on matters relating to the Authority's regulatory role and technical advisor to the Government of Brunei in the oil and gas industry.

  • To assist in the development of the Authority's processes, practices, directives and guidelines within the Legal Department, on an organization- wide basis or externally to industry players.

  • To provide legal support to various committees within and outside the Authority in the discharge of the Authority's roles, functions and responsibilities.

  • To assist the Senior Legal Counsel in any legal matters for which he/she may be assigned from time to time.

  • To assist the Secretary to the Board of Directors in organizing board meetings, drafting minutes, Surat Pesembahs and circular resolutions for the Authority's Board of Directors.

  • To monitor changes in relevant legislation and the regulatory environment, and where necessary prepare policy papers to support any proposal for changes or implementation.

  • To liaise with external counsels, auditors or consultants as well as other regulatory bodies on any matters relating to the Authority's roles, functions and responsibilities.

  • To work collaboratively with team members to achieve shared goals of the Legal Department and the Authority, whether on a project basis or generally.

  • Representing the Authority in all its negotiations and meetings, where appropriate, and if nominated, to lead in all negotiations, as spokesperson or otherwise.

  • To provide legal advice on contracting and where necessary commercial and practical guidance, consistent with best international industry practice across all aspects of the Authority's roles, functions and responsibilities.

  • To be fully familiar and assist in the management of the departmental budget, utilization and optimization within approved mandates and limits.

  • To be the legal negotiator for the Authority in all its projects and business ventures negotiations, when required and nominated to do.

Qualifications & Skills Required

  • Citizen of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam.

  • Minimum bachelor's degree in law (LLB) from a government accredited university.

  • Minimum 4 years of relevant working experience is preferred.

  • Possess professional qualification in Law and/or master's in law (LLM) is an added advantage.

How to Apply

If you are ready to take the next step in your career and make a difference, interested candidates are encouraged to submit their application below by Friday, 1 May 2026 @ 12pm. 


We look forward to hearing from you!