Drilling Operations Superintendent

Placements24; Gauteng; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Base salary with performance bonuses

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement plan with employer match

Housing allowance or company housing

International travel opportunities

Advanced training and development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Drilling Operations Superintendent in the Pretoria, Gauteng region. This hybrid role combines on-site leadership with strategic planning, overseeing drilling campaigns, safety, and cost efficiency.

You will manage drilling crews, equipment, and budgets while ensuring adherence to industry standards. The ideal candidate has 12+ years in drilling operations, with 7+ years in supervisory roles and IWCF certification, and proficient use of drilling

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum or Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum 12 years in drilling operations; 7+ years in supervisory roles.
• IWCF certification mandatory.
• Proficient with drilling simulation software and PM tools.

Responsibilities

• Supervise onshore and offshore drilling operations, ensuring safety and regulatory compliance.
• Develop and implement drilling programs to optimize performance and minimize risks.
• Manage drilling budgets, expenditures, and cost control.
• Oversee equipment and personnel selection, maintenance, and deployment.
• Ensure adherence to company policies and industry best practices.
• Lead and mentor drilling engineers and field supervisors for safety and improvement.
• Coordinate with geology, completions, and HSE for integrated project execution.
• Monitor progress, analyze performance data, and adjust for efficiency.
• Manage relationships with third-party service providers and contractors.

Skills

Drilling operations leadership

Budget management

Team leadership

IWCF certification

Safety leadership

Engineering knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Petroleum or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Drilling simulation software

Project management tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized energy exploration and production company, is seeking a highly experienced Drilling Operations Superintendent to lead their drilling activities in the Pretoria, Gauteng region. This is a critical leadership role requiring extensive experience in managing complex drilling campaigns. The position involves overseeing all aspects of drilling operations, ensuring safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. This hybrid role will require a presence on-site for key operations and strategic planning, with flexibility for remote work during specific phases. You will be responsible for managing drilling crews, equipment, and budgets, while adhering to the highest industry standards. This role offers the chance to shape operational excellence in a key region.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and manage all onshore and offshore drilling operations, ensuring adherence to safety and environmental regulations.
• Develop and implement drilling programs and procedures to optimize performance and minimize risks.
• Manage drilling budgets, track expenditures, and control costs effectively.
• Oversee the selection, maintenance, and deployment of drilling equipment and personnel.
• Ensure compliance with all company policies, industry best practices, and regulatory requirements.
• Lead and mentor drilling engineers and field supervisors, fostering a culture of safety and continuous improvement.
• Coordinate with other departments, including geology, completions, and HSE, to ensure integrated project execution.
• Monitor drilling progress, analyze performance data, and implement necessary adjustments to optimize efficiency.
• Manage relationships with third-party service providers and contractors.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 12 years of experience in drilling operations, with at least 7 years in a supervisory or managerial role.
• Extensive knowledge of drilling techniques, equipment, and associated risks.
• Proven ability to manage large-scale drilling projects and complex operations.
• Strong understanding of well control principles and emergency response procedures.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.
• Proficiency in drilling simulation software and project management tools.
• Valid IWCF certification is a must.

Benefits

• Attractive base salary and substantial performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement savings plan with employer match.
• Paid time off and company holidays.
• Company housing or housing allowance provided.
• Opportunities for international travel and career progression.
• Access to advanced training and development programs.
• Family-friendly policies and support.