The two centres, which are expected to open early next year, will provide research, development and technical services for the company’s worldwide operations. About 100 technology professionals will be employed at each site.

Chevron said two facilities would complement existing major technology centres, operated by Chevron Energy Technology Company (ETC) in California and Texas.

“We are excited about technology’s role in adding new oil and gas supplies and new energy sources to meet the world’s growing energy demand,” ETC president Mark Puckett said.

“By locating technology centres strategically alongside Chevron’s operations, we plan to deploy technology solutions faster, gain access to new technology development opportunities, and increase our access to technical talent globally.”

Chevron also expects the new technology centres to provide an opportunity to leverage the company’s experience and research through alliances with leading universities and other research institutions.

“ETC participates in several partnerships and alliances internationally and in the United States, where we are achieving a much larger impact from our technology investments and are accelerating our results via broad access to external expertise and resources,” said Puckett.

In addition to Chevron staff, the majority of employees to work at each facility are expected to be hired from within each region.

The company is currently undertaking recruitment campaigns to hire both experienced personnel and university graduates, including geologists, geophysicists, and petroleum, process and facilities engineers, with an emphasis on candidates who have master’s and doctorate degrees.