Senior Drilling Engineer

Placements24; Kempton Park; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Hybrid work arrangement

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa seeks a Senior Drilling Engineer to lead planning, execution and supervision of drilling operations, ensuring safety, efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The role requires on-site presence for critical activities, with a hybrid work model.

You will develop innovative drilling strategies, mentor junior engineers, coordinate with rig contractors and service providers, and ensure compliance with South African regulations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required in Petroleum or Mechanical Engineering.
• 7+ years of drilling engineering experience in complex well operations.
• Knowledge of drilling equipment, fluids, cementing, and directional drilling.
• Familiarity with industry software for well planning and simulation.

Responsibilities

• Plan and design drilling programs including well trajectory, casing design, mud programs and cementing strategies.
• Supervise drilling operations on-site or remotely, ensuring safety and standards compliance.
• Manage drilling rig contractors and service providers, negotiating contracts and monitoring performance.
• Conduct daily drilling operations reviews, analyzing KPIs and identifying improvement areas.
• Troubleshoot drilling problems such as lost circulation, stuck pipe and kicks.
• Develop and implement best practices for well control and safety management.
• Prepare post-drilling reports, analyzing performance data and lessons learned.
• Mentor junior drilling engineers and provide technical guidance to the team.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem solving

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Well planning software

Simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the Oil & Gas sector, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Drilling Engineer to join their South African operations. This role is crucial for the planning, execution, and supervision of all drilling operations, ensuring safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. While this position offers a hybrid work model, allowing for a blend of office-based collaboration and remote flexibility, the core responsibilities require on-site presence for critical planning and oversight. You will be instrumental in developing innovative drilling strategies and troubleshooting complex challenges encountered during well construction. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to significant projects and advance your career within a reputable organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and design drilling programs, including well trajectory, casing design, mud programs, and cementing strategies.
• Supervise drilling operations on-site or remotely, ensuring adherence to safety regulations and company standards.
• Manage drilling rig contractors and service providers, negotiating contracts and monitoring performance.
• Conduct daily drilling operations reviews, analyzing key performance indicators and identifying areas for improvement.
• Troubleshoot and resolve drilling problems such as lost circulation, stuck pipe, and kicks.
• Develop and implement best practices for well control and safety management.
• Prepare post-drilling reports, analyzing performance data and lessons learned.
• Mentor junior drilling engineers and provide technical guidance to the drilling team.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in drilling engineering, with a strong track record in complex well operations.
• In-depth knowledge of drilling equipment, fluids, cementing, and directional drilling techniques.
• Familiarity with relevant industry software for well planning and simulation.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and manage multiple priorities.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to operational sites as required.
• Understanding of South African regulatory requirements for oil and gas operations is advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience, along with performance-based incentives. Employees benefit from comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions. The hybrid work arrangement provides flexibility while ensuring team cohesion. Opportunities for professional development, training, and career progression within the organization are readily available. You will be part of a supportive and experienced team, contributing to critical projects in the dynamic Oil & Gas industry. Relocation assistance may be available for the right candidate. This role provides exposure to a variety of drilling challenges and technologies.