Drilling Engineer

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Paarl is seeking an experienced Drilling Engineer to lead planning, execution, and supervision of drilling operations for oil and gas wells in South Africa. You will design drilling programs, select equipment, manage drilling fluids, and ensure safety and efficiency.

The role requires a Bachelor’s degree in Petroleum or Mechanical Engineering, 5+ years in drilling, proficiency with drilling simulation software and well planning tools, and strong leadership, risk mgmt, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in drilling engineering, with onshore/offshore experience.
• Proficiency in drilling simulation software and well planning tools.
• Solid knowledge of drilling mechanics, hydraulics, cementing, and formation evaluation.
• Experience with risk assessment and mitigation strategies for drilling operations.
• Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop detailed drilling plans and programs, including well trajectory, casing design, and cementing strategies.
• Select appropriate drilling equipment, tools, and services, and manage their deployment.
• Oversee drilling operations on-site, ensuring adherence to the drilling plan and safety procedures.
• Manage drilling fluid programs and troubleshoot downhole issues such as lost circulation and stuck pipe.
• Conduct post-drilling analysis and prepare detailed reports on drilling performance and lessons learned.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant HSE regulations and company policies.

Skills

Leadership

Problem-solving

Communication

Risk assessment

Education

Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering

Tools

Drilling simulation software

Well planning tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced Drilling Engineer to join their team in Paarl . This role is crucial for the planning, execution, and supervision of drilling operations for oil and gas wells. You will be responsible for designing drilling programs, selecting appropriate equipment, managing drilling fluids, and ensuring the safety and efficiency of all drilling activities. This hands‑on position requires strong technical skills, meticulous planning, and the ability to manage risks effectively in a dynamic operational environment. You will play a key role in optimizing drilling performance and achieving project objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop detailed drilling plans and programs, including well trajectory, casing design, and cementing strategies.
• Select appropriate drilling equipment, tools, and services, and manage their deployment.
• Oversee drilling operations on-site, ensuring adherence to the drilling plan and safety procedures.
• Manage drilling fluid programs and troubleshoot downhole issues such as lost circulation and stuck pipe.
• Conduct post-drilling analysis and prepare detailed reports on drilling performance and lessons learned.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant HSE regulations and company policies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in drilling engineering , with a strong understanding of onshore and offshore operations.
• Proficiency in drilling simulation software and well planning tools.
• Solid knowledge of drilling mechanics, hydraulics, cementing, and formation evaluation.
• Experience with risk assessment and mitigation strategies for drilling operations.
• Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement savings plan.
• Opportunities for training and career progression in the oil and gas sector.
• A dynamic and challenging work environment.