MPD and RCD Operators

Brunel; Brisbane; On-site; AUD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Brunel is seeking experienced RCD/MPD Operators for short-term onshore drilling projects in Queensland. You will operate and maintain MPD and RCD equipment, ensuring safe and efficient drilling operations on land rigs.

Ideal candidates have 6+ years in oilfield drilling, 4+ years in MPD/UBD, IWCF/IADC well control certification, and hands-on RCD experience. Australian onshore experience is highly regarded. Brunel offers opportunities with a global energy leader and potential ongoing projects.

Qualifications

• 6+ years in oilfield drilling operations.
• 4+ years in MPD and/or UBD.
• Hands-on experience operating RCDs.
• Strong understanding of MPD, Well Control, Drilling Operations, Rig Equipment.

Responsibilities

• Rig up/down RCD and MPD equipment at onshore locations.
• Install, commission and operate RCD systems per OEM procedures.
• Monitor equipment performance during drilling, tripping and interventions.
• Maintain pressure containment and respond to equipment issues.
• Participate in well control drills and emergency response.

Skills

RCD operation

MPD systems

Well control

Troubleshooting

Mechanical aptitude

Reading drawings & P&IDs

Education

High School Diploma

IWCF/IADC Well Control

Tools

Strata MPD systems

Job description

Brunel is seeking experienced RCD/MPD Operators for short-term onshore drilling projects in Queensland. The role involves operating and maintaining Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) and Rotating Control Device (RCD) equipment while ensuring safe and efficient drilling operations.

Client Details

Our client is a global leader in oilfield services and drilling technology, delivering innovative solutions across drilling, evaluation, completion, and production operations worldwide. With a strong presence in Australia's energy sector, they support major onshore and offshore projects through advanced technologies, operational excellence, and a commitment to safety and performance.

The company is recognised for its expertise in Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD), well control services, and drilling optimization solutions, providing technical support to some of the industry's most complex energy developments. This opportunity offers the chance to work with a highly experienced team on significant gas drilling projects in Queensland.

Description

The successful candidates will join a specialized drilling team supporting land rig operations in Queensland. The project involves installation, operation, monitoring, maintenance, and troubleshooting of RCD and MPD equipment throughout the drilling campaign.

Candidates with previous experience on Strata systems, MPD equipment, underbalanced drilling operations, or similar technologies will be highly regarded.

Equipment Operations

• Rig up and rig down RCD and MPD equipment at onshore drilling locations.
• Install, commission, and operate RCD systems in accordance with OEM procedures.
• Monitor equipment performance during drilling, tripping, and intervention operations.
• Maintain pressure containment throughout drilling activities.
• Identify and respond to equipment issues, including seal failures, leakage, vibration, and operational abnormalities.
• Participate in well control drills and emergency response activities.
• Ensure compliance with site HSE requirements and industry best practices.

Inspection & Maintenance

• Conduct pre-job, routine, and post-job inspections.
• Perform maintenance on:
  • Bearings
  • RCD rubbers
  • Hydraulic Power Units (HPU)
  • Associated mechanical components
• Identify wear and coordinate repairs or replacements.
• Maintain accurate maintenance and inspection records.

Troubleshooting

• Diagnose faults related to:
  • Rotating Control Devices
  • Hydraulic systems
  • Bearings and sealing elements
• Implement corrective actions to minimise downtime.
• Support MPD Supervisors with technical problem-solving in the field.

Reporting & Documentation

• Complete daily operational reports.
• Track equipment performance and maintenance activities.
• Communicate equipment status and operational updates to site leadership.

Profile

To be considered for this opportunity, you will possess:

• Minimum 6+ years' experience in oilfield drilling operations.
• Minimum 4+ years' experience in Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) and/or Underbalanced Drilling (UBD).
• Hands-on experience operating Rotating Control Devices (RCDs).
• Strong understanding of:
  • Managed Pressure Drilling
  • Well Control
  • Drilling Operations
  • Rig Equipment
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, manuals, and P&IDs.
• Strong troubleshooting and mechanical aptitude.
• Current Medical Certificate.
• Valid IWCF or IADC Well Control Certification.
• High School Diploma or equivalent qualification.

Highly Desirable

• Experience with Strata MPD systems.
• Previous experience with leading oilfield service providers or specialist MPD contractors.
• Experience working on Australian land rig operations.

Job Offer

• Opportunity to work on high-profile Queensland gas drilling projects.
• Exposure to advanced MPD and RCD technologies with a global industry leader.
• Potential for ongoing project opportunities beyond the initial contract.

About Brunel:

Brunel is a recruitment and flexible workforce solution provider which connects talented people with opportunities throughout Australasia and around the world. We specialise in highly skilled roles across a variety of technical, professional, trades and craft disciplines, pairing candidates with industry-leading projects and organisations on a contract, permanent or secondment basis.

Operating in Australasia since 1997, Brunel has major bases of operation in Perth, Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Port Moresby, which are further backed by the strength and reach of a truly global network spanning over 45 countries, 120 offices and 50 years of successful operation.

Brunel is proud to be equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and female candidates.

Do you have questions?

If you have any questions or would like to discuss the details of this role, please contact .

Be careful - Don’t provide your bank or credit card details when applying for jobs. Don't transfer any money or complete suspicious online surveys. If you see something suspicious, report this job ad .

Sign in to start saving jobs in your profile.

Don’t have a Jora account? Register with:

Do you want to receive recommendations for similar jobs?