Senior Drilling Engineer - Operations Focus

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Bonus program

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa is seeking a highly experienced Senior Drilling Engineer to oversee drilling operations around Soweto, Gauteng. The role focuses on planning, execution, and optimization of drilling campaigns, ensuring safety, efficiency, and budget adherence.

You will work closely with geologists and engineers on trajectory design, mud programs, cementing strategies, and well control; mentor junior staff; manage service contracts; and drive improvements in performance while on-site

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering or related field.
• 8+ years of experience in drilling engineering with focus on operations.
• Extensive knowledge of drilling fluids, cementation, well control, and completions.
• Experience planning and executing complex drilling programs.
• Proficient in drilling simulation software and Microsoft Office.
• Strong understanding of HSE regulations and best practices in oil and gas.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills; problem solving and decision making.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
• Experience with directional drilling and complex well trajectories.
• Familiarity with Gauteng region operating conditions.

Responsibilities

• Develop comprehensive drilling plans including trajectory, casing design, mud program, and cementing strategy.
• Supervise drilling operations for safety, efficiency and cost control.
• Conduct pre-spud meetings and daily operational reviews with rig crews.
• Monitor drilling progress, identify risks, and implement mitigation strategies.
• Troubleshoot drilling problems and provide real-time solutions.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, standards and regulations.
• Manage drilling service contracts and procure equipment.
• Prepare end-of-well reports and analyze performance data.
• Collaborate with geologists and reservoir engineers to optimize strategies.
• Mentor junior drilling engineers with technical guidance.

Skills

Drilling engineering

Leadership

Communication

Problem solving

Decision making

Time management

Pressure handling

Education

BSc Petroleum Engineering

Tools

Drilling simulation software

Microsoft Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant operator in the energy sector, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Drilling Engineer to oversee drilling operations primarily based in and around the Soweto region, Gauteng . This role is focused on the planning, execution, and optimization of drilling campaigns, ensuring they are conducted safely, efficiently, and within budget. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of drilling engineering principles, equipment, and various drilling techniques, with a strong emphasis on operational execution and problem-solving in challenging environments. This position requires a hands‑on approach and will involve significant time spent on‑site or in close coordination with rig operations. You will be responsible for managing drilling programs, ensuring adherence to best practices, and driving continuous improvement in drilling performance. This is a critical role for an accomplished professional looking to make a substantial impact within the industrial landscape of Gauteng .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop comprehensive drilling plans, including well trajectory, casing design, mud program, and cementing strategy.
• Supervise and manage drilling operations, ensuring safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
• Conduct pre‑spud meetings and daily operational reviews with rig crews and relevant stakeholders.
• Monitor drilling progress, identify potential risks, and implement mitigation strategies.
• Troubleshoot drilling problems and provide technical solutions in real‑time.
• Ensure compliance with all company policies, industry standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Manage drilling service contracts and procure necessary equipment and materials.
• Prepare end‑of‑well reports, analyze performance data, and identify lessons learned for future operations.
• Collaborate with geologists, reservoir engineers, and other disciplines to optimize drilling and completion strategies.
• Mentor junior drilling engineers and provide technical guidance.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in drilling engineering, with a strong focus on operational execution.
• Extensive knowledge of drilling fluids, cementation, well control, and completion operations.
• Proven experience in planning and executing complex drilling programs.
• Proficiency in drilling simulation software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong understanding of HSE regulations and best practices in the oil and gas industry.
• Excellent leadership, communication, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple priorities in a demanding field environment.
• Experience with directional drilling and complex well trajectories is essential.
• Familiarity with the operating conditions and challenges in the Gauteng region is a significant advantage.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, commensurate with experience, and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement savings, and performance‑based bonuses. This role provides excellent opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a leading energy company. Our client is committed to maintaining a safe, secure, and respectful work environment for all employees. The position offers the chance to be at the forefront of drilling operations in the active Soweto area and surrounding Gauteng province.