Drilling Engineer - Port Elizabeth

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement plan

Performance bonuses

Training programs

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is assisting a growing offshore exploration and production company based in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, ZA, in recruiting a Drilling Engineer. The role combines offshore drilling expertise with a hybrid work model, requiring hands-on planning, risk mitigation, and collaboration across disciplines to meet drilling objectives.

You will oversee well planning, casing and cementing design, mud programs, directional drilling, and contractor management, while maintaining HSE and budget

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of drilling engineering experience, offshore preferred.
• Strong knowledge of well planning, casing/cementing design, and directional drilling.
• Familiarity with drilling fluids and formation evaluation; strong rig ops understanding.

Responsibilities

• Develop detailed drilling programs and procedures per company standards.
• Lead well planning, casing/cementing design, mud program, and directional drilling plans.
• Oversee day-to-day drilling operations and provide technical support.
• Manage drilling contractors and equipment selection/oversight.
• Conduct pre-spud meetings and post-well reviews; analyze performance data.
• Ensure compliance with Health, Safety and Environmental regulations and budgets.

Skills

Drilling engineering

Offshore experience

Well planning

Directional drilling

Problem solving

Leadership

Teamwork

Communication

Travel readiness

Drilling software

Education

Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Drilling simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a growing presence in the offshore exploration and production sector, is seeking a motivated Drilling Engineer to join their team based in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, ZA. This role operates on a hybrid model, allowing for a blend of remote work and essential on-site engagement. The Drilling Engineer will be responsible for planning, executing, and managing drilling operations, ensuring safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. You will work closely with various disciplines to achieve drilling objectives, mitigate risks, and optimize performance. This position is crucial for the successful execution of our exploration and development drilling campaigns.

Key Responsibilities

Develop detailed drilling programs and procedures, adhering to company standards and industry best practices. Perform well planning, including casing design, mud program, and directional drilling plans. Manage drilling operations on a day-to-day basis, providing technical support and problem-solving. Oversee the selection and management of drilling contractors and equipment. Conduct pre-spud meetings and end-of-well reviews. Monitor drilling performance, analyze data, and identify opportunities for improvement. Ensure strict adherence to all Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) regulations. Manage drilling-related costs and contribute to budget adherence. Prepare technical reports and maintain accurate drilling records. Liaise with subsurface teams to ensure alignment with reservoir objectives.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field. A minimum of 5 years of experience in drilling engineering, preferably with offshore exposure. Proven experience in well planning, casing/cementing design, and directional drilling. Familiarity with drilling fluid systems and formation evaluation techniques. Strong understanding of rig operations and equipment. Proficiency in drilling simulation software. Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills. Strong communication, leadership, and interpersonal abilities. Ability to work effectively in a team and manage contractors. Willingness to travel to field locations as needed. Relevant certifications in drilling safety (e.g., IADC WellSharp) are highly desirable.

Benefits

This role comes with a competitive salary and benefits package, including medical aid, a retirement plan, and potential for performance bonuses. Our client invests in employee development through training programs and opportunities to attend industry forums. The hybrid work arrangement promotes a good work-life balance. You will be part of a challenging and rewarding environment, contributing to significant projects in the energy sector. Join a company that values safety, innovation, and its people.