Lead Drilling Engineer

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Lead Drilling Engineer to join our client’s George operations. This leadership role oversees planning, execution, and supervision of drilling activities to ensure safety, efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

You will manage a team of drilling engineers, collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams, and drive strategy for well design, fluid engineering, and directional drilling in the Oil & Gas sector.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum or Mechanical Engineering.
• At least 10 years in drilling engineering with 3+ in lead role.
• Expertise in well design, drilling fluids, and directional drilling.
• Strong knowledge of drilling regulations and safety protocols.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop drilling programs and execution plans with safety in mind.
• Oversee daily drilling operations and resolve technical issues.
• Manage budgets, control costs, and improve efficiency.
• Mentor the drilling engineering team and promote safety culture.
• Conduct risk assessments and mitigation for operations.
• Coordinate with supply chain and service providers for timely delivery.

Skills

Drilling design

Directional drilling

Drilling fluids

Leadership

Safety protocols

Decision making

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced Lead Drilling Engineer to join their operational team based in George. This leadership role is responsible for the planning, execution, and supervision of all drilling operations, ensuring safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. You will manage a team of drilling engineers and work closely with other disciplines to achieve project objectives. This is a crucial position within the Oil & Gas sector, offering the chance to shape drilling strategies and contribute to the successful exploration and development of resources.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop comprehensive drilling programs and execution plans, ensuring adherence to safety and environmental standards.
• Oversee daily drilling operations, monitor progress, and resolve technical challenges in real-time.
• Manage drilling budgets, control costs, and optimize drilling efficiency.
• Lead and mentor the drilling engineering team, fostering a culture of safety and continuous improvement.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies for drilling operations.
• Collaborate with supply chain and service providers to ensure timely delivery of equipment and services.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering or Mechanical Engineering.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in drilling engineering, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or lead role.
• Demonstrated expertise in well design, drilling fluid engineering, and directional drilling.
• Strong knowledge of drilling regulations, safety protocols, and equipment.
• Proven leadership and team management capabilities.
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and communication skills.

Benefits

• Generous salary package with annual performance incentives.
• Comprehensive medical aid and provident fund.
• Opportunities for international travel and exposure to diverse projects.
• Professional development and specialized training programs.
• A dynamic work environment with a strong emphasis on safety leadership.