Senior Drilling Engineer

Imploy; Dhahran Compound; On-site; SAR 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading oil and gas organization in Saudi Arabia is seeking a highly experienced Senior Drilling Engineer to lead drilling programs and optimize well performance. In this on-site role, you will manage well planning, oversee drilling fluid performance, and ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Ideal candidates have 12–25 years of drilling experience, a degree in Engineering, and strong analytical skills. This position offers competitive compensation, long-term career stability, and the opportunity to work in a dynamic environment.

Benefits

Competitive compensation package

Field benefits

Long-term career stability

Qualifications

• 12–25 years of experience in oil & gas drilling operations, with at least 10 years in senior roles.
• Strong hands-on experience with drilling fluids and wellbore stability.
• Certification in drilling engineering or drilling fluid technology is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design, plan, and execute drilling programs based on well conditions.
• Oversee and optimize drilling fluid programs.
• Monitor real-time drilling and adjust parameters as needed.
• Ensure compliance with HSE and environmental regulations.
• Conduct performance analysis to improve drilling efficiency.

Skills

Drilling fluids optimization

Well integrity

Operational optimization

Analytical skills

Troubleshooting skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Petroleum, Mechanical, Chemical)

Tools

Drilling and fluid analysis software

Job description

We are a trusted recruitment partner connecting experienced professionals with leading oil and gas organizations. On behalf of a well-established operator delivering complex drilling operations across Saudi Arabia, we are seeking a highly experienced Senior Drilling Engineer to lead drilling programs, optimize well performance, and ensure safe, efficient execution across onshore projects.

About the Role

As a Senior Drilling Engineer, you will take ownership of well planning and drilling execution, with a strong focus on drilling fluids performance, well integrity, and operational optimization. You will work closely with rig teams, drilling supervisors, mud engineers, and service providers to ensure drilling programs are delivered safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with technical and environmental standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, plan, and execute drilling programs based on specific well conditions and geological data.
• Oversee and optimize drilling fluid programs, ensuring proper selection, preparation, and performance throughout drilling operations.
• Monitor real-time drilling and downhole data to adjust drilling parameters and fluid properties as required.
• Ensure drilling fluids and operations comply with HSE, environmental, and waste disposal regulations.
• Collaborate with drilling supervisors, mud engineers, and service companies to resolve fluid-related and drilling challenges.
• Conduct performance analysis to reduce non-productive time (NPT) and improve drilling efficiency.
• Review daily drilling and mud reports and provide detailed technical summaries to management and stakeholders.
• Support risk assessments, well control planning, and emergency response readiness.
• Supervise, mentor, and provide technical guidance to drilling crews and junior engineers.
• Coordinate materials, chemicals, and logistics related to drilling operations and fluid systems.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Petroleum, Mechanical, Chemical, or related discipline).
• 12–25 years of experience in oil & gas drilling operations, with at least 10 years in senior or lead drilling roles.
• Strong hands-on experience with drilling fluids, wellbore stability, and fluid optimization.
• Proven background in onshore drilling operations.
• Certification in drilling engineering or drilling fluid technology is highly preferred.
• In-depth understanding of fluid mechanics, drilling processes, and well construction.
• Proficiency with industry-standard drilling and fluid analysis software.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and decision-making skills.
• Ability to work effectively in high-pressure, fast-paced field environments.
• Physically fit and willing to work in remote locations and varying weather conditions.
• Willingness to work long hours, night shifts, and rotational schedules as required.
• Fluency in English is required; Arabic is an advantage.

What’s Offered

• Full-time on-site role with rotation based on project needs.
• Opportunity to lead complex drilling operations with a reputable oil & gas operator.
• Competitive compensation package with rotation and field benefits.
• Safety-driven and technically advanced working environment.
• Long-term career stability and professional recognition.

Apply Now

If you are a seasoned drilling professional with strong expertise in drilling fluids, well optimization, and field execution, we invite you to apply and play a key role in delivering safe and efficient drilling operations across Saudi Arabia.