Remote-First Lead Drilling Engineer & Ops Leader

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

Benefits offered by this job

Private health insurance

Retirement plan

Generous annual leave

Online training & certifications

Flexible work design

Virtual, South Africa-wide team

Job summary

WhatJobs Direct is seeking an exceptional Lead Drilling Engineer to join our remote-first team. You will design, plan, and execute complex drilling operations across onshore and offshore projects in South Africa, ensuring safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.

This role emphasizes remote leadership, collaboration with distributed teams, and cutting-edge drilling technologies. A Bachelor's in Petroleum or Mechanical Engineering and 10+ years of drilling experience are required, with strong

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related.
• 10+ years in drilling engineering focusing on execution and planning.
• Proven ability to manage complex drilling projects end-to-end.
• Expertise in drilling fluid design, well control, directional drilling, and completion operations.
• Strong HSE knowledge for Oil & Gas industries.
• Remote collaboration and leadership skills.
• Proficiency with drilling simulation software and data analysis tools.
• Experience in remote or hybrid team structures is advantageous.
• Reliable internet connectivity and a dedicated home office setup.

Responsibilities

• Develop and oversee drilling programs and procedures for onshore and offshore operations.
• Manage drilling risks and develop contingency plans.
• Specify and select drilling equipment, services, and materials.
• Provide technical guidance and leadership to drilling engineers remotely.
• Monitor drilling performance, analyze data, and implement improvements for efficiency and cost savings.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Contribute to development of new drilling technologies.
• Communicate with remote teams, stakeholders, and service providers via digital platforms.

Skills

Drilling leadership

Remote collaboration

Well control

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Petroleum or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Drilling simulation software

Data analysis tools

Job description

WhatJobs Direct is seeking an exceptional Lead Drilling Engineer to join our remote-first team. You will design, plan, and execute complex drilling operations across onshore and offshore projects in South Africa, ensuring safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.

This role emphasizes remote leadership, collaboration with distributed teams, and cutting-edge drilling technologies. A Bachelor's in Petroleum or Mechanical Engineering and 10+ years of drilling experience are required, with strong