Senior Drilling Engineer - Hybrid

Placements24; South Africa; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Performance bonuses

Hybrid work

Professional development

Paid time off

Networking opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Drilling Engineer to join its operations team in Tembisa, Gauteng. This hybrid role combines on-site collaboration with remote flexibility to drive safe, efficient drilling operations and cost control.

You will plan, execute and supervise drilling campaigns, mentor engineers, coordinate with geoscientists and service providers, and ensure regulatory compliance. A strong track record in oil and gas, well control, and leadership is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• 8+ years of experience in drilling engineering, including operations.
• Strong leadership, communication, and team collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop detailed drilling programs, casing design, cementing and mud plans.
• Supervise operations on-site and remotely, ensuring safety and policy adherence.
• Conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies for drilling hazards.
• Manage drilling contracts and service providers, controlling costs and performance.
• Analyze drilling data and metrics to identify improvements and best practices.
• Troubleshoot drilling issues (stuck pipe, lost circulation, wellbore instability).
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with geoscientists and reservoir engineers to optimize well trajectories.
• Mentor junior drilling engineers and provide technical support.
• Participate in post-well reviews and lessons learned sessions.

Skills

Drilling operations

Well control

Leadership

Risk assessment

Contract management

Data analysis

Education

Petroleum Engineering

Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Drilling simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an accomplished Senior Drilling Engineer to join their operations team based in Tembisa, Gauteng, ZA . This hybrid role offers a dynamic blend of on-site collaboration and remote flexibility, allowing for optimal engagement with project teams and personal work-life balance. You will be responsible for the planning, execution, and supervision of drilling operations, ensuring safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. This position requires a deep understanding of drilling technologies, well control principles, and regulatory compliance within the Oil & Gas industry. As a senior member of the team, you will provide expert guidance, troubleshoot complex drilling challenges, and contribute to the continuous improvement of drilling practices. This is a fantastic opportunity to work with a leading energy company, driving operational excellence in a critical sector. The successful candidate will play a vital role in optimizing drilling performance and ensuring the successful development of new and existing fields in the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop detailed drilling programs and procedures, including casing design, cementing plans, and mud programs.
• Supervise drilling operations on-site and remotely, ensuring adherence to safety standards and company policies.
• Conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies for potential drilling hazards.
• Manage drilling contracts and service providers, ensuring performance and cost control.
• Analyze drilling data and performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and implement best practices.
• Troubleshoot drilling problems, such as stuck pipe, lost circulation, and wellbore instability.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with geoscientists and reservoir engineers to optimize well trajectory and data acquisition.
• Participate in post-well reviews and lessons learned sessions.
• Mentor junior drilling engineers and provide technical support.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 8 years of experience in drilling engineering, with a significant portion in operational roles.
• Proven track record in planning and executing complex drilling operations.
• Strong knowledge of well control principles, BOPs, and emergency procedures.
• Familiarity with drilling simulation software and data analysis tools.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing on-site and remote responsibilities.
• Commitment to safety and environmental stewardship.
• Experience in the Oil & Gas sector is essential.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to operational sites as needed.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including comprehensive health insurance, retirement contributions, and performance bonuses.
• Employees in this hybrid role enjoy the flexibility of remote work combined with the benefits of in-person collaboration.
• Opportunities for professional development, training, and career advancement are readily available.
• This role provides exposure to cutting-edge drilling technologies and the chance to contribute to significant projects within the Oil & Gas industry.
• We foster a supportive team environment and encourage innovation and continuous learning.
• The location in Tembisa, Gauteng, ZA provides good accessibility for those in the region.
• Additional perks include paid time off and opportunities for professional networking within the energy sector.