Senior Drilling Fluids Engineer — Lead & Hybrid Role

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Healthcare and pension benefits

Paid vacation and personal leave

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Lead Drilling Fluids Engineer near Rustenburg, North West. You will design and manage drilling fluid systems to optimize performance, reduce risks, and improve efficiency across complex campaigns.

The role requires 8+ years in drilling fluids with leadership experience, strong hands-on testing skills, and the ability to guide a multidisciplinary team. A hybrid work setup is offered to balance field and office duties.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, or related field.
• 8+ years of drilling fluids engineering experience, with lead/supervisory exposure.
• Expertise in water-based, oil-based, and synthetic-based drilling fluids.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage drilling fluid programs aligned with well objectives.
• Provide technical leadership to engineers and mud loggers.
• Oversee procurement, testing, and QC of additives and materials.
• Analyze performance data and troubleshoot drilling fluids issues.
• Ensure safe and environmentally sound fluids management and waste disposal.
• Collaborate with engineers and geologists to optimize operations.
• Train junior staff and prepare technical reports and recommendations.
• Stay updated on drilling fluid tech and assess adoption.

Skills

Leadership

Drilling fluids design

Problem-solving

Mentoring

Communication

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Petroleum Engineering

Tools

Drilling fluid testing equipment

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Lead Drilling Fluids Engineer near Rustenburg, North West. You will design and manage drilling fluid systems to optimize performance, reduce risks, and improve efficiency across complex campaigns.

The role requires 8+ years in drilling fluids with leadership experience, strong hands-on testing skills, and the ability to guide a multidisciplinary team. A hybrid work setup is offered to balance field and office duties.