Drilling Fluids Engineer - Extended Reach Drilling Specialist

Placements24; Gauteng; In loco; ZAR 900.000 - 1.500.000; Tempo pieno

Vantaggi offerti da questo lavoro

Competitive salary

Performance bonus

Medical aid

Insurance (disability & life)

Annual leave

Descrizione del lavoro

Placements24 is seeking a highly specialized Drilling Fluids Engineer with ERD expertise to design, implement and optimize drilling fluid systems for challenging offshore and onshore campaigns. The role requires deep knowledge of rheology, wellbore stability and fluid chemistry, plus hands-on field support.

Based in Gauteng, the successful candidate will lead fluid programs, mentor junior staff, ensure HSE compliance and collaborate with engineers, geologists and service partners to deliver

Competenze

• Minimum 6 years of progressive experience as a Drilling Fluids Engineer, with significant ERD experience.
• In-depth knowledge of drilling fluid chemistry, rheology and hydraulics.
• IWCF Level 2 or 3 certification preferred.

Mansioni

• Design and manage drilling fluid programs for ERD applications, considering well trajectory and pressures.
• Lab testing and analysis of drilling fluids to ensure performance and compliance.
• Provide on-site technical support and supervision of drilling fluid operations.
• Monitor fluid properties during drilling and adjust for wellbore integrity and efficiency.
• Collaborate with drilling engineers, geologists and service personnel to address challenges.
• Prepare daily fluid reports and post-well analyses.
• Ensure safety, health and environmental compliance in fluid handling and disposal.
• Research and recommend novel drilling fluid technologies and additives.
• Train and mentor junior fluid engineers and mud personnel.

Conoscenze

ERD experience

Fluids design

Rheology

Wellbore stability

Team collaboration

Problem solving

IWCF certification (preferred)

Formazione

Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Petroleum Engineering

Descrizione del lavoro

About the Role

Our client, a prominent upstream oil and gas operator, is actively seeking a highly specialized Drilling Fluids Engineer with expertise in Extended Reach Drilling (ERD) operations. This critical role is integral to ensuring the successful and safe execution of complex drilling campaigns in challenging offshore and onshore environments. The successful candidate will be responsible for the design, implementation, and management of drilling fluid systems, optimizing performance to mitigate risks associated with high-angle and long-reach wells. This is a hands‑on position requiring a deep technical understanding of fluid rheology, wellbore stability, and drilling fluid chemistry. The role is based in Tembisa, Gauteng , a strategic location for managing extensive operational activities. You will be a key contributor to our client's reputation for operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and manage drilling fluid programs specifically tailored for Extended Reach Drilling (ERD) applications, considering well trajectory, formation pressures, and environmental factors
• Conduct laboratory testing and analysis of drilling fluid samples to ensure optimal performance and compliance with specifications
• Provide on-site technical support and supervision of drilling fluid operations, troubleshooting any issues that arise
• Monitor fluid properties and performance during drilling operations, making necessary adjustments to maintain wellbore integrity and drilling efficiency
• Collaborate closely with drilling engineers, geologists, and service company personnel to anticipate and address challenges
• Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation, including daily fluid reports and post-well analyses
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations related to drilling fluid handling and disposal
• Research and recommend innovative drilling fluid technologies and additives to enhance performance and reduce costs
• Train and mentor junior fluid engineers and mud personnel

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, or a closely related discipline
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience as a Drilling Fluids Engineer, with significant demonstrated experience in ERD operations
• In-depth knowledge of drilling fluid chemistry, rheology, and hydraulics
• Proven ability to design and manage complex fluid systems for challenging wellbore conditions
• Familiarity with various drilling fluid types (e.g., oil-based, synthetic-based, water-based) and their applications
• Strong understanding of wellbore stability principles and formation damage mechanisms
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work under pressure
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for collaboration with diverse teams
• Valid IWCF certification (Level 2 or 3) is preferred
• Commitment to upholding the highest standards of health, safety, and environmental stewardship

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package commensurate with experience
• Performance bonus opportunities based on project success and company targets
• Comprehensive medical aid, including family coverage
• Disability and life insurance benefits
• Generous annual leave allowance
• Company-provided accommodation and travel arrangements during field assignments
• Access to cutting-edge technology and continuous professional development
• A challenging and rewarding career within a respected industry leader