Senior Drilling Fluids Engineer - Hybrid Role

Placements24; Southampton; Hybrid; GBP 41,000 - 59,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Company vehicle and travel allowance

Retirement plan and life insurance

Competitive salary and benefits

Job summary

The Client in Randburg, Gauteng, is seeking a senior Lead Drilling Fluids Engineer for a hybrid role combining on-site supervision with remote technical support. You will design, implement, and manage drilling fluid systems to optimize performance and cost efficiency.

You will lead technical teams, mentor engineers, and maintain strong client relationships while ensuring safe operations and adherence to industry standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or related field.
• 8+ years of progressive drilling fluids engineering experience in Oil & Gas.
• Deep knowledge of drilling fluid chemistry, rheology, filtration, and additives.
• Experience with water-based, oil-based, and synthetic-based fluids.
• Strong understanding of drilling operations and wellbore mechanics.
• Proven ability to lead technical teams and manage client relationships.
• Hybrid work experience; willingness to travel to rig sites.
• IADC WellSharp certification advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Design and optimize drilling fluid programs for specific wells and geology.
• Oversee selection, mixing, and maintenance of drilling fluid systems on rigs.
• Monitor real-time drilling fluid performance and adjust properties.
• Troubleshoot drilling fluid problems such as lost circulation and wellbore instability.
• Provide technical guidance to drilling crews and field engineers.
• Conduct site visits to ensure proper implementation and safety.
• Manage inventory and logistics for drilling fluid additives and equipment.
• Prepare technical reports and cost analyses for clients.
• Stay updated on new drilling fluid technologies.
• Collaborate with clients and internal teams on customized solutions.
• Participate in remote reviews and on-site support within the hybrid model.

Skills

Leadership

Client liaison

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or related field

Tools

IADC WellSharp certification

Job description

The Client in Randburg, Gauteng, is seeking a senior Lead Drilling Fluids Engineer for a hybrid role combining on-site supervision with remote technical support. You will design, implement, and manage drilling fluid systems to optimize performance and cost efficiency.

You will lead technical teams, mentor engineers, and maintain strong client relationships while ensuring safe operations and adherence to industry standards.