Senior Drilling Engineer (Remote)

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote

Training programs

Industry conferences

Career progression

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Drilling Engineer for a fully remote role serving South Africa, with an operational focus around Vereeniging, Gauteng. You will plan, execute and optimize complex drilling programs, ensuring safety, efficiency and cost-effectiveness in diverse environments.

The ideal candidate has a minimum of 8 years in drilling engineering, strong well-planning and risk-management skills, and the ability to mentor junior engineers remotely while coordinating with contractors

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering field.
• 8+ years of drilling engineering experience including planning and execution.
• Experience across onshore/offshore and conventional/unconventional drilling environments.

Responsibilities

• Develop drilling programs and well plans including casing and cement designs.
• Oversee drilling operations ensuring adherence to plan and best practices.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies for hazards.

Skills

Drilling engineering

Well planning

Risk management

Remote team leadership

Budget management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering

Mechanical Engineering or related field

Tools

WellSim

Compass

StressCheck

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in energy exploration and production, is seeking an exceptional Senior Drilling Engineer to join their high-performing technical team. This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere within South Africa, with an operational focus connected to Vereeniging, Gauteng, ZA. You will be responsible for the planning, execution, and optimization of complex drilling operations, ensuring safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. This role requires extensive expertise in drilling technology, well planning, risk management, and the ability to lead and mentor junior engineers in a virtual environment. Your contributions will be vital in achieving successful drilling outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

Develop comprehensive drilling programs and well plans, including casing and cement designs, directional plans, and fluid programs. Oversee the execution of drilling operations, ensuring adherence to the drilling plan and best practices. Conduct rigorous risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies for potential drilling hazards. Manage drilling budgets and actively seek cost-optimization opportunities without compromising safety or quality. Select and manage drilling contractors and associated service providers. Provide technical support and troubleshooting assistance to rig site personnel. Analyze drilling performance data and implement improvements for future operations. Ensure compliance with all Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) regulations. Mentor and guide junior drilling engineers, fostering their technical and professional development.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field. A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in drilling engineering, including planning and execution. Proven experience with various drilling environments (onshore/offshore, conventional/unconventional). Strong knowledge of drilling hydraulics, well control principles, casing/cementing, and directional drilling. Proficiency in drilling simulation and planning software (e.g., WellSim, Compass, StressCheck). Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, particularly for remote team collaboration. Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and budgets effectively. Valid IWCF certification is highly desirable.

Benefits

This role offers a highly competitive salary and the significant advantage of a fully remote work arrangement, providing unparalleled flexibility. Our client is committed to the professional growth of its employees and offers extensive training programs, opportunities to attend industry conferences, and clear pathways for career advancement. You will work with cutting-edge technology and be part of a company with a strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence. This position allows you to contribute to impactful energy projects from a location of your choice within South Africa.