RIG MANAGER

Mena Business Investment Group; Dammam; On-site; SAR 299,000 - 450,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading drilling operations company in Saudi Arabia is seeking a Rig Manager to oversee the efficient operation of drilling rigs. This role involves managing crew performance, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and coordinating activities with stakeholders. The ideal candidate has over 15 years of drilling experience, a strong background in HSE protocols, and excellent leadership skills.

Qualifications

• Minimum 15+ years of experience in drilling operations.
• At least 3 years in a rig management role.
• Experience with different rig types.

Responsibilities

• Oversee drilling, workover, and maintenance operations.
• Ensure compliance with HSE policies and best practices.
• Supervise and manage rig personnel and contractors.

Skills

Drilling programs knowledge

HSE protocol expertise

Team leadership

Problem-solving skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Petroleum Engineering or related field

Tools

IWCF or IADC Well Control Certification

H2S Awareness Certification

BOSIET/HUET Certification

Job description

Job Summary

The Rig Manager is responsible for the overall safe, efficient, and cost-effective operation of a drilling rig. This includes ensuring compliance with safety regulations, managing crew performance, overseeing drilling operations, and coordinating with company representatives and third-party service providers. The Rig Manager plays a key leadership role in maintaining operational excellence while upholding the highest safety and environmental standards.

Key Responsibilities

1. Operations & Performance Management

• Oversee all drilling, workover, and maintenance operations on the rig.
• Ensure the rig operates within budget, schedule, and technical specifications.
• Monitor daily drilling reports, operational logs, and equipment performance.
• Optimize drilling efficiency while maintaining safety and procedural compliance.

2. Health, Safety & Environmental Compliance

• Enforce company HSE policies and industry best practices (API, OSHA, IADC, NEBOSH, ISO 45001, etc.).
• Conduct and participate in safety meetings, risk assessments, and incident investigations.
• Ensure PPE compliance and enforce safety protocols to prevent incidents.
• Maintain compliance with environmental protection measures and emergency response plans.

3. Crew Management & Leadership

• Supervise and manage rig personnel, contractors, and service providers.
• Assign duties and monitor crew performance to ensure high productivity and adherence to safety standards.
• Train and mentor rig crews to improve skills and knowledge.
• Ensure adequate manpower levels and shift coverage.

4. Equipment & Maintenance Oversight

• Ensure rig equipment, machinery, and drilling tools are properly maintained and inspected.
• Schedule and oversee preventive maintenance to minimize downtime.
• Coordinate with the maintenance team to resolve mechanical, hydraulic, or electrical issues.

5. Communication & Coordination

• Serve as the primary point of contact between the rig and corporate office.
• Liaise with company representatives, drilling engineers, and third-party vendors.
• Provide daily operation updates, incident reports, and performance analysis to management.

Skills

Qualifications & Requirements

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field (preferred).
• Minimum 15+ years of experience in drilling operations, with at least 3 years in a rig management role.
• Strong background in land or offshore drilling operations.
• Experience working with different rig types (jack-up, semi-submersible, land rigs, deepwater, etc.).
• Saudi or GCC experience.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of drilling programs, well control, and rig maintenance.
• Expertise in HSE protocols, risk assessment, and incident investigation.
• Ability to lead, train, and motivate teams in high-risk environments.
• Effective problem-solving, decision-making, and crisis management skills.

Certifications (Preferred)

• ✔ IWCF or IADC Well Control Certification
• ✔ H2S Awareness & Safety Certification
• ✔ BOSIET/HUET Certification (for offshore operations)
• ✔ NEBOSH or OSHA Safety Certification
• ✔ First Aid & Firefighting Training