Senior Drilling Engineer: Lead Safe, Cost-Effective Drilling

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonus

Medical & dental insurance

Retirement benefits

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Drilling Engineer to lead drilling campaigns from our Polokwane operations centre. The role focuses on safe, efficient, and cost‑effective well construction and performance optimization.

You will plan and supervise drilling programs, select equipment, and manage on‑site operations while mentoring teams and collaborating with cross‑functional groups to drive exploration projects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• 7+ years of drilling engineering experience with a strong track record in planning and execution.
• In-depth knowledge of drilling fluids, cementation, well control, and directional drilling techniques.

Responsibilities

• Develop comprehensive drilling programs and operational plans, including casing and cementing strategies.
• Select appropriate drilling equipment, tools, and techniques to optimize performance and minimize costs.
• Manage drilling operations on-site, providing technical supervision and troubleshooting expertise.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies for drilling hazards.
• Analyze drilling data to identify areas for performance improvement and cost reduction.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Petroleum or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Drilling software

Data analysis tools

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Drilling Engineer to lead drilling campaigns from our Polokwane operations centre. The role focuses on safe, efficient, and cost‑effective well construction and performance optimization.

You will plan and supervise drilling programs, select equipment, and manage on‑site operations while mentoring teams and collaborating with cross‑functional groups to drive exploration projects.