Drilling Operations Manager - Oil & Gas Exploration

Placements24; George; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement provisions

Performance-based bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Drilling Operations Manager to oversee all drilling activities in George, Western Cape. The role demands strong leadership, safety focus, and hands-on site management to plan, execute, and supervise drilling campaigns.

The successful candidate will manage crews, equipment, budgets, and interfaces with subsurface and logistics to ensure safe, cost-effective operations and adherence to industry standards.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive experience in drilling engineering and operations.
• Experience with deepwater or challenging environments.
• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering or closely related field.
• IWCF Level 4 well control certification.
• Willing to relocate to George, Western Cape.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive drilling plans for exploration wells.
• Supervise drilling crews, service providers, and contractors.
• Oversee equipment selection, procurement, and usage.
• Monitor performance, identify risks, and implement mitigations.
• Ensure adherence to policies, regulations and environmental standards.
• Manage drilling budgets, control costs, and optimize efficiency.
• Conduct regular safety audits and promote a strong safety culture.
• Coordinate with subsurface and logistics for project execution.
• Troubleshoot operational challenges and develop solutions.

Skills

Leadership

Drilling operations

Cost control

Safety management

Vendor management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading exploration and production company, is actively seeking a highly experienced Drilling Operations Manager to oversee all drilling activities in George, Western Cape. This pivotal role demands strong leadership, technical expertise, and a deep commitment to safety and operational excellence. The successful candidate will be responsible for the planning, execution, and supervision of drilling campaigns, ensuring efficient and cost-effective operations while adhering to the highest industry standards. This position is critical for the company's exploration success in the region and requires a hands-on approach within the operational site.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive drilling plans and programs for exploration and appraisal wells.
• Manage and supervise drilling crews, service providers, and contractors to ensure safe and efficient operations.
• Oversee the selection, procurement, and utilization of drilling equipment and materials.
• Monitor drilling performance, identify potential risks, and implement mitigation strategies.
• Ensure strict adherence to all company policies, industry regulations, and environmental standards.
• Manage drilling budgets, control costs, and optimize operational efficiency.
• Conduct regular safety audits and promote a strong safety culture throughout the drilling operations.
• Liaise with other departments, including subsurface teams and logistics, to ensure seamless project execution.
• Troubleshoot operational challenges and develop innovative solutions to complex drilling problems.

Requirements

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in drilling engineering and operations within the oil and gas industry.
• Proven track record in managing complex drilling operations, including deepwater or challenging environments.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and direct diverse teams.
• In-depth knowledge of drilling techniques, well control, HSE management, and relevant regulations.
• Experience with rig selection, contract negotiation, and vendor management.
• Excellent understanding of drilling fluid properties, cementing, and completion operations.
• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering or a closely related technical field.
• Certification in well control (e.g., IWCF Level 4) is mandatory.
• Must be willing to relocate and work extensively in the George, Western Cape area.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive salary package commensurate with experience, along with comprehensive benefits including medical aid, retirement provisions, and performance-based bonuses. We provide opportunities for continuous professional development and career progression within a growing organization. Join a team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of energy exploration in George, Western Cape.