Lead Drilling Fluids Engineer

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Accommodation and travel allowances

Professional certification support

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Drilling Fluids Engineer for our client in Cape Town, Western Cape. The role oversees design, implementation, and management of drilling fluid systems across diverse formations, ensuring safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.

You will lead a team of fluids engineers, work with drilling engineers and geologists, and focus on wellbore stability, fluid chemistry, rheology, and solids control. On-site presence in Cape Town is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Petroleum Engineering.
• Minimum 10 years in drilling fluids engineering, with 3+ years in leadership.
• Expertise in water-based, oil-based, and synthetic drilling fluids.
• Strong hydraulics, rheology, and solids control knowledge.
• IWCF or similar certifications desirable.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage drilling fluid programs for complex wells.
• Lead and mentor fluids engineers and technicians.
• Ensure safety, environmental, and regulatory compliance.
• Analyze fluid properties and optimize performance.
• Oversee procurement and inventory of additives.
• Prepare technical reports for management.
• Collaborate with geologists and drilling engineers.
• Control budget for drilling fluids operations.

Skills

Fluid engineering

Rheology

Wellbore hydraulics

Team leadership

Data analysis

Education

Bachelors in Chemical Engineering

Bachelors in Petroleum Engineering

IWCF certification

Tools

Mud modeling software

Data analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier energy exploration and production company, is actively seeking a Lead Drilling Fluids Engineer for their operational hub in Cape Town, Western Cape. This critical position involves overseeing the design, implementation, and management of drilling fluid systems for complex drilling operations across various geological formations. The Lead Drilling Fluids Engineer will be responsible for ensuring the safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness of all fluid-related activities, minimizing environmental impact, and adhering to the highest industry standards. You will lead a team of fluids engineers, provide technical expertise, and work collaboratively with drilling engineers and geologists to optimize wellbore stability and drilling performance. This role demands a strong understanding of fluid chemistry, rheology, and solids control, coupled with exceptional problem-solving abilities. The position is based at our client's prominent Cape Town office and requires consistent on-site presence to support drilling campaigns. Join a forward-thinking organization that values technical excellence and environmental stewardship.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage comprehensive drilling fluid programs tailored to specific well designs and geological conditions.


• Supervise and mentor a team of drilling fluids engineers and technicians.


• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations pertaining to drilling fluids.


• Conduct detailed analysis of fluid properties, rheology, and solids content to optimize performance and minimize Non-Productive Time (NPT).


• Troubleshoot downhole fluid-related problems, including hole cleaning issues, lost circulation, and wellbore instability.


• Collaborate with geologists and drilling engineers to anticipate challenges and proactively develop fluid solutions.


• Oversee the procurement, testing, and inventory management of drilling fluid chemicals and additives.


• Develop and present technical reports on fluid performance, costs, and recommendations to management.


• Contribute to the continuous improvement of drilling fluid technology and operational procedures.


• Manage the budget for drilling fluids operations and ensure cost efficiency.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, or a closely related discipline.


• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in drilling fluids engineering, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or lead role.


• Demonstrated expertise in various drilling fluid systems (e.g., water-based, oil-based, synthetic-based).


• In-depth knowledge of fluid rheology, chemistry, solids control, and wellbore hydraulics.


• Proven ability to diagnose and resolve complex drilling fluid challenges in real-time.


• Experience with drilling fluid modeling software and data analysis tools.


• Strong leadership, communication, and team management skills.


• Relevant industry certifications (e.g., IWCF, mud school training) are highly desirable.


• Ability to work effectively under pressure and make critical decisions during drilling operations.


• Must be authorized to work in South Africa and based in or willing to relocate to Cape Town.

Benefits

• Attractive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.


• Annual performance bonus opportunities.


• Comprehensive medical aid plan.


• Generous contribution to a provident fund.


• Paid annual leave and public holidays.


• Opportunities for professional development and industry certifications.


• Exposure to diverse and challenging drilling projects.


• Supportive team environment.


• Company-provided accommodation and travel allowances for field duties if required.


• Access to cutting-edge drilling fluid technology.