Deepwater Drilling Manager

Worley; Aberdeen City; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global professional services company is seeking a Deepwater Drilling Manager to oversee drilling operations and ensure project success in Aberdeen, UK. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in drilling management, project oversight, and contractor liaising, reporting to senior management on performance and safety compliance. This multi-year engagement involves significant leadership responsibilities, ensuring that all drilling operations are conducted safely and efficiently, while driving innovation in energy transition.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 20 years of experience in drilling operations; at least 10 years in management.
• Extensive experience managing deep water drilling projects.
• Relevant certifications in safety and drilling operations are highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all drilling operations, ensuring they align with project objectives.
• Serve as primary contact for drilling contractor, ensuring compliance with timelines and quality.
• Lead the drilling team and manage the successful execution of drilling engineering.

Skills

Leadership

Project Management

Communication

Negotiation

Problem Solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline

Master’s degree (preferred)

Job description

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Job Description - Deepwater Drilling Manager (HOU0428):

Building on our past. Ready for the future

Worley is a global professional services company of energy, chemicals and resources experts. We partner with customers to deliver projects and create value over the life of their assets. We’re bridging two worlds, moving towards more sustainable energy sources, while helping to provide the energy, chemicals and resources needed now.

We are seeking an experienced Deepwater Drilling Manager with experience working with drilling contractors and operators. The ideal candidate will be responsible for the successful execution of drilling engineering and operations, ensuring that all activities are performed safely, on schedule, and within budget. This role requires strong leadership, excellent project management skills, and the ability to maintain effective relationships with subcontractors, stakeholders, and the internal team.

This is a multi-year engagement and will be based in contractor’s office in Aberdeen, UK with regular trips to India during the planning phase.Drilling activity will take place in India, the position will then be relocated to the company’s office in India.

Key responsibilities

Drilling Operations Management:

Oversee and manage all drilling operations conducted by the contractor, ensuring they align with project objectives, safety regulations, and budgetary constraints.

Monitor and evaluate the performance of drilling activities, identifying areas for improvement, and driving efficiencies.

Ensure drilling programs are executed per schedule, budget, and within operational and environmental guidelines.

Contractor Liaison:

Serve as the primary point of contact for the drilling contractor, maintaining clear and effective communication.

Review and approve drilling plans, procedures, and reports submitted by the contractor.

Ensure the contractor’s compliance with project timelines, quality standards, and contractual obligations.

Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) Compliance:

Ensure that all drilling activities are conducted in a safe manner and in compliance with HSE regulations, standards, and project-specific safety procedures.

Proactively identify potential risks and implement corrective actions to mitigate any safety concerns.

Lead and participate in safety audits, risk assessments, and incident investigations.

Performance Monitoring and Reporting:

Regularly report on drilling performance to senior management, providing updates on progress, challenges, and risks.

Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to ensure drilling objectives are being met and prepare reports for internal and external stakeholders.

Budget and Resource Management:

Oversee the financial aspects of drilling operations, ensuring costs are controlled, resources are optimized, and the drilling program remains within budget.

Assist in the preparation and management of the drilling budget, ensuring effective use of resources.

Team Leadership and Development:

Lead and manage the drilling team, providing guidance, mentorship, and technical support.

Ensure the development and training of personnel to enhance their skills and ensure compliance with industry best practices.

Collaboration:

Work closely with other departments (., geology, engineering, logistics) to ensure drilling activities are properly integrated into the overall project plan.

Collaborate with procurement and logistics teams to ensure timely availability of equipment, materials, and services required for drilling operations.

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline. A Master’s degree is a plus.

Experience:

Minimum of 20 years of experience in drilling operations, with at least 10 years in a management role in the oil & gas industry.

Extensive experience in managing deep water drilling projects from exploration to development in remote environments.

Proven track record of successfully managing drilling operations within large-scale energy projects.

Certifications:

Relevant certifications in safety and drilling operations (., IWCF, Well Control, Offshore Safety) are highly desirable.

Skills:

Strong technical knowledge of drilling operations, well design, and project management.

Ability to manage and negotiate with drilling contractors and vendors.

Familiarity with project management tools, HSE standards, and cost management practices.

Excellent communication, leadership, and team-building skills.

Attributes:

Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make decisions under pressure.

High level of attention to detail and a proactive approach to risk management.

Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and adapt to changing priorities.

Moving forward together

We’re committed to building a diverse, inclusive and respectful workplace where everyone feels they belong, can bring themselves, and are heard. We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to age, race, creed, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, citizenship status or any other basis as protected by law.

We want our people to be energized and empowered to drive sustainable impact. So, our focus is on a values-inspired culture that unlocks brilliance through belonging, connection and innovation.

And we're not just talking about it; we're doing it. We're reskilling our people, leveraging transferable skills, and supporting the transition of our workforce to become experts in today's low carbon energy infrastructure and technology.

Whatever your ambition, there’s a path for you here. And there’s no barrier to your potential career success. Join us to broaden your horizons, explore diverse opportunities, and be part of delivering sustainable change.