Lead Drilling Engineer

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical & dental insurance

Retirement savings plan

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Drilling Engineer to oversee drilling operations in Polokwane, Limpopo. The role involves planning, execution, and optimization of drilling activities, leading a team of engineers and technicians, and ensuring safety, regulatory compliance, and cost control.

A hybrid work setup balances on-site supervision with remote planning. The ideal candidate has a Bachelor’s in Petroleum or Mechanical Engineering and 10+ years in drilling, including 3+ years in a lead role, with

Qualifications

• Requires a Bachelor's degree in Petroleum or Mechanical Engineering or closely related field.
• Minimum of 10 years progressive drilling engineering experience, with at least 3 years in lead/supervisory role.
• Extensive experience with directional drilling, completion operations, and drilling fluids.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning and execution of drilling programs, including well design and casing design.
• Develop detailed procedures, contingency plans, and risk assessments.
• Oversee rig operations, ensuring safety and efficiency.
• Manage drilling budgets and control costs.
• Mentor junior drilling engineers and rig personnel.

Skills

Leadership

Drilling engineering

Budget management

Project planning

Safety management

Stakeholder liaison

Education

Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Drilling simulation software

Well control software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the upstream oil and gas sector, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead Drilling Engineer to oversee drilling operations in Polokwane, Limpopo. This senior position demands exceptional leadership qualities and a proven track record in managing complex drilling campaigns safely and efficiently. The successful candidate will be responsible for the planning, execution, and optimization of all drilling activities, ensuring adherence to the highest industry standards and regulatory requirements. You will lead a team of drilling engineers and technicians, fostering a culture of safety and continuous improvement. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute significantly to major projects in the vibrant Polokwane, Limpopo region. A hybrid work arrangement is in place, balancing on-site operational needs with flexibility.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning and execution of drilling programs, including well design, casing design, and drilling fluid selection.
• Develop detailed drilling procedures, contingency plans, and risk assessments.
• Oversee rig operations, ensuring safety protocols and operational efficiency are maintained.
• Manage drilling budgets and control costs effectively.
• Supervise and mentor junior drilling engineers and rig personnel.
• Liaise with various stakeholders, including operational teams, contractors, and regulatory bodies.
• Analyze drilling data to optimize drilling parameters, minimize non-productive time (NPT), and enhance safety.
• Oversee the selection and management of drilling services and equipment suppliers.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental policies and regulations.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of drilling technologies and best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in drilling engineering, with at least 3 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• Extensive experience with various drilling techniques, including directional drilling and completion operations.
• In-depth knowledge of drilling fluids, cementing, well control, and formation evaluation.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex drilling projects and associated budgets.
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with drilling simulation and planning software.
• Experience working in diverse geological environments.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work setting, balancing remote planning with on-site supervision.
• Must possess valid work authorization for South Africa.

Benefits

• Our client provides a highly competitive salary, comprehensive medical and dental insurance, and a generous retirement savings plan.
• Opportunities for professional development, international assignments, and leadership training are readily available.
• The hybrid work model offers flexibility, and the company culture emphasizes collaboration and safety.
• This role is based in Polokwane, Limpopo and offers significant career growth potential within a respected organization.