Lead Drilling Engineer — Unconventional Wells

ConocoPhillips; Midland (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits including medical, •d\

Job summary

ConocoPhillips is seeking an experienced Drilling Engineer for Midland, TX. You will design and execute drilling programs across unconventional assets, leading well planning from concept through execution with a focus on safety, efficiency, and cost control.

You will collaborate with multi‑disciplinary teams, mentor colleagues, and ensure adherence to regulatory standards while driving performance improvements and environmental stewardship.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Petroleum, Mechanical, Civil, Chemical) or foreign equivalent.
• 3+ years’ experience in drilling engineering or operations.
• Willing and able to travel 10–20% annually.
• Willing and able to be on call outside of standard working hours.

Responsibilities

• Lead well planning and execution by developing detailed drilling programs that align with safety, cost, and performance objectives.
• Ensure regulatory compliance by preparing and submitting all required permits and maintaining adherence to federal, state, and company standards.
• Support field operations by providing daily engineering guidance to onsite personnel and troubleshooting operational challenges.
• Optimize drilling performance by analyzing drilling data to improve safety, efficiency, and operational outcomes.
• Develop and track performance metrics by setting goals, monitoring progress, and implementing improvements to support continuous improvement.
• Drive cost and schedule accuracy by collaborating with asset, planning, and finance teams to develop estimates and track accruals.
• Evaluate and standardize processes by incorporating lessons learned and proven practices from past operations.
• Conduct internal and external benchmarking studies to identify and apply best engineering and operational practices.
• Strengthen vendor relationships by evaluating bids and ensuring alignment with operational needs.
• Champion knowledge sharing by engaging with internal subject matter experts, participating in technical networks, and contributing to industry societies.
• Mentor and collaborate within a one‑team environment to support technical development.

Skills

Communication

Accountability

Decision making

Leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Tools

WellView

Landmark

Job description

ConocoPhillips is seeking an experienced Drilling Engineer for Midland, TX. You will design and execute drilling programs across unconventional assets, leading well planning from concept through execution with a focus on safety, efficiency, and cost control.

You will collaborate with multi‑disciplinary teams, mentor colleagues, and ensure adherence to regulatory standards while driving performance improvements and environmental stewardship.