Drilling Fluids Engineer - Onshore Operations Support

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Medical and accident insurance

Career development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Drilling Fluids Engineer for onshore operations in Bloemfontein, Free State. You will design, manage and optimize drilling fluid programs, supervise mud operations, monitor properties, troubleshoot issues, and ensure safety and environmental compliance.

The role requires a Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Petroleum Engineering, at least 5 years in drilling fluids, deep knowledge of fluid systems, and willingness to travel to rig sites.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, or related science discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Drilling Fluids Engineer, with onshore operations experience.

Responsibilities

• Design, manage, and optimize drilling fluid programs for onshore wells.
• Supervise drilling fluid operations at the rig site and provide technical guidance to mud engineers.
• Monitor fluid properties (density, viscosity, rheology, filtration) and ensure they meet requirements.
• Troubleshoot drilling fluid-related problems (formation damage, lost circulation, wellbore instability).
• Recommend adjustments to fluid formulation to improve performance.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations related to disposal and management.
• Prepare daily fluid reports, analyses, and cost tracking.
• Collaborate with engineers, geologists, and clients to address drilling challenges.
• Maintain inventory of drilling fluid chemicals and equipment.
• Stay updated on new drilling fluid technologies and best practices.

Skills

Drilling fluid design

Rheology

Hydraulics

Analytical thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering

Tools

Drilling fluid testing equipment

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major service provider within the Oil & Gas industry , is seeking a highly competent Drilling Fluids Engineer to provide crucial support for onshore operations based in Bloemfontein, Free State . This role is essential for ensuring the effective design, management, and application of drilling fluid systems to optimize drilling performance and wellbore integrity. You will work closely with drilling engineers and rig crews to monitor fluid properties, troubleshoot issues, and implement solutions that enhance drilling efficiency and safety. The position requires a strong technical background in drilling fluid chemistry, rheology, and hydraulics. You will contribute to innovative fluid programs aimed at overcoming challenging drilling conditions. This is an excellent opportunity to join a leading technical services company and make a tangible impact on drilling operations across various regions. The hybrid work model allows for effective collaboration and project management. The role is pivotal for ensuring operational success in the challenging Oil & Gas sector .

Key Responsibilities

• Design, manage, and optimize drilling fluid programs for onshore wells.
• Supervise drilling fluid operations at the rig site and provide technical guidance to mud engineers.
• Monitor fluid properties (e.g., density, viscosity, rheology, filtration) and ensure they meet operational requirements.
• Troubleshoot drilling fluid-related problems, such as formation damage, lost circulation, and wellbore instability.
• Recommend adjustments to fluid formulation and properties to improve drilling performance.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations related to drilling fluid disposal and management.
• Prepare daily fluid reports, performance analyses, and cost tracking.
• Collaborate with drilling engineers, geologists, and clients to address drilling challenges.
• Maintain an inventory of drilling fluid chemicals and equipment.
• Stay updated on new drilling fluid technologies and industry best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, or a related science discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Drilling Fluids Engineer, with specific experience in onshore operations.
• In-depth knowledge of drilling fluid systems, chemistry, rheology, and hydraulics.
• Experience with various drilling fluid types (e.g., water-based, oil-based, synthetic-based).
• Familiarity with drilling fluid testing equipment and procedures.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with rig personnel and clients.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a dynamic operational environment.
• Commitment to safety and environmental best practices.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to various rig sites within South Africa.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based incentives, comprehensive medical and accident insurance, and opportunities for advanced training and career development. The hybrid work arrangement in Bloemfontein offers flexibility. Join a global leader in oilfield services and contribute to efficient and safe drilling operations.