Senior Drilling Engineer & Well Operations Lead

Placements24; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Pension contributions

Performance-based bonuses

Career advancement

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Drilling Engineer in Sandton, Gauteng, to spearhead well operations. This hands-on role requires extensive drilling expertise, strong leadership, and a focus on safety and efficiency.

You will plan, execute, and supervise drilling activities, mentor engineers and rig crews, manage budgets, and liaise with regulators and service providers to ensure safe, cost-effective operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 10 years of drilling engineering experience, with at least 3 years in a lead/supervisory role.
• Extensive knowledge of drilling operations, equipment, and subsurface challenges.
• Proven ability to manage complex drilling projects and deliver results under pressure.
• Strong understanding of well control principles and safety management systems.
• Experience with drilling simulation software and data analysis tools.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to make sound decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Commitment to safety and environmental performance.
• Familiarity with SA regulatory requirements is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop comprehensive drilling programs and procedures, including well design, casing design, and cementing plans.
• Oversee and manage daily drilling operations, ensuring adherence to safety regulations and company standards.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to drilling engineers and rig crews.
• Manage drilling budgets, monitor expenditures, and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Conduct post-well analysis to identify lessons learned and implement improvements for future operations.
• Evaluate and select drilling equipment and services to ensure optimal performance and safety.
• Liaise with regulatory bodies, service companies, and other stakeholders to ensure smooth operations.
• Manage risks and implement mitigation strategies for drilling hazards such as kicks, stuck pipe, and lost circulation.
• Ensure accurate and timely reporting of drilling operations, performance metrics, and incident investigations.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of drilling technologies and best practices within the organization.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Decision making

Risk management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Petroleum/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Drilling simulation software

Data analysis tools

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Drilling Engineer in Sandton, Gauteng, to spearhead well operations. This hands-on role requires extensive drilling expertise, strong leadership, and a focus on safety and efficiency.

You will plan, execute, and supervise drilling activities, mentor engineers and rig crews, manage budgets, and liaise with regulators and service providers to ensure safe, cost-effective operations.