Lead Drilling Fluids Engineer - Offshore Operations

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement planning

Life insurance

Career progression

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Lead Drilling Fluids Engineer to oversee operations near Mossel Bay, Western Cape. The role involves designing fluid systems, supervising on-site fluid operations, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring cost-effective drilling fluid programs for complex projects.

The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Petroleum Engineering, 8+ years in drilling fluids, and proven leadership with offshore/remote site exposure.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, or related field.
• 8+ years of drilling fluids experience with substantial operational exposure.
• Experience formulating and managing various drilling fluids types (water-based, oil-based, synthetic-based).
• Strong leadership and ability to work in a hybrid or offshore setting.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement customized drilling fluid programs based on well objectives and formation characteristics.
• Supervise and direct drilling fluid operations at the wellsite, ensuring performance and safety.
• Troubleshoot drilling fluid issues and optimize wellbore integrity.
• Manage procurement, inventory, and logistics of drilling fluid products and equipment.
• Prepare detailed technical reports on fluid performance and operational costs.
• Provide technical guidance and training to junior drilling fluids engineers and mud loggers.
• Liaise with clients, rig personnel, and other service providers to ensure seamless operations.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements and technologies in drilling fluid systems.

Skills

Drilling fluids engineering

Leadership

Wellbore stability

Offshore operations

Problem solving

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical/Petroleum Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized oilfield services company, is seeking an experienced Lead Drilling Fluids Engineer to oversee operations in the vicinity of Mossel Bay, Western Cape, ZA . This role requires a strong leader to manage drilling fluid programs, ensure optimal fluid performance, and maintain cost-effectiveness for complex drilling projects. You will be responsible for designing fluid systems, troubleshooting issues, managing inventory, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. The position involves a hybrid work schedule, balancing critical on-site support with remote planning and analysis. The successful candidate will play a key role in enhancing drilling efficiency and wellbore stability, contributing directly to the success of our clients' exploration and production activities in the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement customized drilling fluid programs based on well objectives and formation characteristics.
• Supervise and direct drilling fluid operations at the wellsite, ensuring performance and safety.
• Troubleshoot drilling fluid issues and recommend effective solutions to maintain wellbore integrity.
• Manage the procurement, inventory, and logistics of drilling fluid products and equipment.
• Conduct performance analysis of drilling fluid systems and identify areas for optimization.
• Ensure all operations comply with company policies and environmental regulations.
• Prepare detailed technical reports on fluid performance and operational costs.
• Provide technical guidance and training to junior drilling fluids engineers and mud loggers.
• Liaise with clients, rig personnel, and other service providers to ensure seamless operations.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements and technologies in drilling fluid systems.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, or a related scientific field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in drilling fluids engineering, with substantial operational exposure.
• Proven expertise in formulating and managing various types of drilling fluids (e.g., water-based, oil-based, synthetic-based).
• Strong understanding of drilling mechanics, wellbore stability, and formation evaluation.
• Experience with drilling fluid laboratory testing and analysis.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Strong leadership and team management capabilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model, including offshore or remote site visits.
• Proficiency in relevant software and reporting tools.
• Knowledge of offshore drilling operations is highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based incentives, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, retirement planning, and life insurance. This hybrid role provides opportunities for professional development, advanced training, and career progression within a leading global service provider. Working near Mossel Bay, Western Cape , offers a unique experience in a region known for its natural beauty and growing industrial significance within the energy sector. You will be part of a dedicated team focused on innovation and operational excellence.