Drilling Operations Manager

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,600,000 - 2,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Bonus potential

Retirement plan

Career development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Drilling Operations Manager for a major energy group overseeing drilling campaigns from Bloemfontein, Free State, ZA. You will plan, execute, and safely complete drilling programs, lead engineers, rig crews, and service providers to meet safety, environmental, and production targets.

You will manage budgets, select contractors, monitor performance, and implement risk controls while coordinating with exploration, production, and HSE teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a technical field (Petroleum/Mechanical Engineering).
• Minimum 10 years in drilling operations with 5+ years in leadership roles.
• Deep knowledge of drilling techniques, equipment, well control, and risks.
• Proven track record managing complex campaigns in challenging environments.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement drilling plans, programs and budgets aligned with targets.
• Supervise all drilling operations ensuring safety and compliance.
• Mentor and develop drilling engineers, rig crews, and support staff.
• Oversee contracting and performance management of drilling contractors.
• Implement risk management strategies to mitigate hazards and risks.
• Monitor performance metrics and drive continuous improvement to cut costs.
• Coordinate with exploration, production, HSE, and engineering teams.
• Procure materials, equipment, and services for drilling operations.
• Conduct post-drilling reviews and lessons learned sessions.
• Ensure compliance with local and international regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Drilling operations

HSE management

Budgeting

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Petroleum or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Drilling planning software

Performance tracking tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major integrated energy company operating within the Oil & Gas sector, is seeking a highly experienced and results-oriented Drilling Operations Manager to oversee their drilling campaigns in Bloemfontein, Free State, ZA . This critical leadership role will be responsible for the planning, execution, and safe, efficient completion of all drilling operations. The Drilling Operations Manager will lead a team of drilling engineers, supervisors, and rig crews, ensuring adherence to stringent safety standards, environmental regulations, and operational objectives. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of drilling technologies, risk management, and personnel management within challenging operational environments. This is a pivotal opportunity to drive operational excellence and contribute significantly to the company's upstream success in the region, working hands-on from our operational hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive drilling plans, programs, and budgets in alignment with company objectives and geological targets.
• Manage and supervise all aspects of drilling operations, ensuring adherence to safety protocols, environmental regulations, and industry best practices.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of drilling engineers, rig personnel, and support staff.
• Oversee the selection, contracting, and performance management of drilling contractors and service providers.
• Implement robust risk management strategies to identify, assess, and mitigate drilling-related hazards and operational risks.
• Monitor drilling performance, analyze key metrics, and implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
• Ensure effective communication and coordination with other departments, including exploration, production, HSE, and engineering.
• Manage the procurement of necessary materials, equipment, and services for drilling operations.
• Conduct post-drilling reviews and lessons learned sessions to inform future operations.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant local and international regulations pertaining to drilling operations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in drilling operations, with at least 5 years in a supervisory or managerial role.
• Extensive knowledge of drilling techniques, equipment, well control procedures, and associated risks.
• Proven track record of successfully managing complex drilling campaigns in challenging environments.
• Strong leadership, team-building, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent understanding of HSE management systems and a commitment to safety excellence.
• Proficiency in drilling planning software and performance tracking tools.
• Strong financial acumen and experience in managing drilling budgets.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities under pressure.
• Adaptability to work in a demanding operational environment and potentially long hours when required.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive remuneration package, including a substantial base salary, performance bonuses, and potential long-term incentives. Employees receive comprehensive health insurance, retirement fund contributions, and other benefits designed to support their well-being. Opportunities for career advancement and professional development within a leading global energy company are abundant. The role is based in the operational heart of Bloemfontein, Free State, ZA , providing direct involvement in significant drilling projects. This is a challenging yet rewarding position for a seasoned drilling professional.