Senior Drilling Fluids Engineer

Placements24; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health and wellness benefits

Retirement plan with company match

Professional training & certifications

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Drilling Fluids Engineer to lead drilling-fluid programs from Sandton base, ensuring safe and efficient operations. You will design, test, and supervise drilling fluid applications across diverse well types, maintaining cost-effective fluid programs while managing field teams and client relationships.

The role requires a strong background in fluid chemistry, rheology, and hydraulics, with on-site leadership experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a chemical/ petroleum/ chemistry related field required.
• Minimum 7 years of experience as a Drilling Fluids Engineer or Mud Engineer.
• Strong knowledge of drilling fluid types, properties and applications.
• Experience with solids control equipment and fluid recycling systems.
• Familiarity with drilling fluid additives and their functions.
• Solid understanding of wellbore hydraulics and hole cleaning principles.

Responsibilities

• Design and recommend drilling fluid programs based on well objectives and geological conditions.
• Supervise the mixing, testing, and application of drilling fluids on drilling rigs.
• Conduct regular performance monitoring of drilling fluid systems and recommend adjustments.
• Troubleshoot drilling fluid-related problems and implement effective solutions.
• Perform fluid property testing and analysis in laboratory and field settings.
• Manage inventory of drilling fluid materials and equipment.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations related to drilling fluid disposal.
• Provide technical support and training to rig personnel and clients.
• Prepare daily and end-of-well drilling fluid reports.
• Stay updated on the latest drilling fluid technologies and industry best practices.

Skills

Drilling fluids design

Field operations management

Analytical problem-solving

Client relations

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, Chemistry, or related field

Tools

Solids control equipment

Fluid recycling systems

Drilling additives knowledge

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading oilfield services provider, is seeking a highly competent Senior Drilling Fluids Engineer to join their operations in Sandton, Gauteng. This role is essential for ensuring the optimal performance and safety of drilling operations through the effective management of drilling fluid systems. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in designing, recommending, and supervising the application of drilling fluids for various well types and formations. You will be responsible for fluid testing, performance monitoring, troubleshooting, and ensuring cost-effective fluid programs. This position requires a strong understanding of fluid chemistry, rheology, and drilling mechanics, as well as the ability to work effectively on-site and manage client relationships. We are looking for a proactive problem-solver with excellent communication skills, ready to contribute to challenging drilling projects from our Sandton base. Your technical expertise will be key to operational success.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and recommend drilling fluid programs based on well objectives and geological conditions.
• Supervise the mixing, testing, and application of drilling fluids on drilling rigs.
• Conduct regular performance monitoring of drilling fluid systems and recommend adjustments.
• Troubleshoot drilling fluid-related problems and implement effective solutions.
• Perform fluid property testing and analysis in laboratory and field settings.
• Manage inventory of drilling fluid materials and equipment.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations related to drilling fluid disposal.
• Provide technical support and training to rig personnel and clients.
• Prepare daily and end-of-well drilling fluid reports.
• Stay updated on the latest drilling fluid technologies and industry best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, Chemistry, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience as a Drilling Fluids Engineer or Mud Engineer.
• In-depth knowledge of drilling fluid types, properties, and their application in various drilling environments.
• Experience with solids control equipment and fluid recycling systems.
• Familiarity with drilling fluid additives and their functions.
• Strong understanding of wellbore hydraulics and hole cleaning principles.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and client management skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a demanding field environment, often under pressure.
• Experience in the Gauteng region or similar challenging drilling locations is beneficial.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and attractive bonus structure.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits package.
• Retirement savings plan with company contributions.
• Opportunities for advanced training and professional certifications.
• Paid time off and generous sick leave.
• Potential for international assignments.
• Relocation assistance for qualified candidates moving to Sandton, Gauteng.
• Company-provided vehicle or car allowance.
• Exposure to diverse and challenging drilling projects.
• A supportive and team-oriented work environment.