Drilling Supervisor - Onshore Operations

Placements24; Noord-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Field allowance

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Housing and messing provided

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Drilling Supervisor to oversee onshore drilling operations in Kimberley, Northern Cape. You will lead crews, ensure safety and efficiency, monitor progress, and coordinate with geology, engineering, and logistics to maintain rig-site operations.

The role requires a strong background in drilling techniques, safety procedures, and regulatory compliance within the upstream sector, with a rotational schedule and relocation flexibility as needed.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Drilling Supervisor or similar onshore role.
• IWCF level 3 or 4 certification is mandatory.
• Proven track record in safely executing complex drilling programs.
• Strong knowledge of drilling fluids, cementing, well control, and directional drilling.

Responsibilities

• Supervise all drilling operations on the rig site and ensure adherence to the drilling program and safety procedures.
• Lead and mentor the drilling crew to foster safety, efficiency and teamwork.
• Monitor progress, wellbore conditions and equipment performance; make timely decisions to ensure success.
• Ensure compliance with HSE policies, regulatory requirements and industry best practices.
• Oversee maintenance of drilling equipment and manage rig area inventory.
• Prepare daily drilling reports and conduct safety meetings and drills.

Skills

Leadership

Safety management

Communication

Team supervision

Education

IWCF L3/L4 certification

Tools

Drilling equipment

Well control systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, an established entity in the Oil & Gas sector, is actively seeking an experienced Drilling Supervisor to oversee onshore drilling operations in the Kimberley, Northern Cape region. This hands-on role requires proven leadership in managing drilling crews, ensuring the safe and efficient execution of drilling programs, and maintaining operational integrity. You will be responsible for the day-to-day supervision of drilling activities, equipment, and personnel on the rig site. The ideal candidate will possess a comprehensive understanding of drilling techniques, safety procedures, and regulatory compliance within the upstream industry. This position offers a fantastic opportunity to contribute to critical energy infrastructure development in a region known for its unique geological landscape, requiring meticulous planning and execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and manage all drilling operations on the rig site, ensuring adherence to the drilling program and safety procedures.
• Lead and mentor the drilling crew, fostering a culture of safety, efficiency, and teamwork.
• Monitor drilling progress, wellbore conditions, and equipment performance, making timely decisions to ensure operational success.
• Ensure compliance with all company HSE policies, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices.
• Oversee the proper functioning and maintenance of drilling equipment and machinery.
• Manage inventory of drilling supplies and consumables on the rig.
• Prepare daily drilling reports, including operational updates, encountered issues, and planned activities.
• Conduct safety meetings and drills regularly to maintain crew awareness and preparedness.
• Coordinate with other disciplines, such as geology, engineering, and logistics, to ensure smooth operations.
• Troubleshoot and resolve operational challenges encountered during drilling activities.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Drilling Supervisor or in a closely related supervisory role in onshore Oil & Gas operations.
• Valid IWCF certification (Level 3 or 4) is mandatory.
• Proven track record of safely and efficiently executing complex drilling programs.
• Strong knowledge of drilling fluids, cementing, well control, and directional drilling principles.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage remote teams.
• Familiarity with onshore drilling rigs and equipment.
• Understanding of relevant HSE regulations and procedures.
• Physically fit and able to work a rotational schedule, potentially including challenging conditions.
• Must be eligible to work in South Africa and based in or willing to relocate to the Kimberley area for operational needs.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and field allowance.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund.
• Performance-based bonuses and recognition.
• Opportunities for further training and professional development.
• Rotation schedule offering work-life balance.
• Exposure to challenging and rewarding onshore projects.
• Housing and messing provided during field assignments.