Senior Drilling Fluids Engineer - Operational Support

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Bonuses

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein, Free State, invites a Senior Drilling Fluids Engineer to lead the design and optimization of drilling fluid programs across diverse operations. The role blends on-site collaboration in Bloemfontein with remote analysis and reporting.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Chemical, Mechanical or Petroleum) and 6+ years in drilling fluids, with strong analytical skills, experience with drilling fluid software and lab testing, and the ability to

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Chemical, Mechanical, Petroleum) or related field.
• Minimum 6 years of drilling fluids engineering experience in Oil & Gas.
• Experience designing and managing complex drilling fluid systems.
• Strong knowledge of drilling fluid properties and additives.
• Experience with drilling fluid software and laboratory testing equipment.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for a hybrid work environment.
• Ability to work in Bloemfontein with occasional travel to well sites.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and manage drilling fluid programs for various drilling operations.
• Supervise and train drilling fluids technicians and on-site personnel.
• Conduct laboratory testing to evaluate fluid properties and performance.
• Troubleshoot downhole fluid-related problems and recommend solutions.
• Optimize drilling fluid formulations for specific well conditions and objectives.
• Monitor fluid performance and report on key parameters and recommendations.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations related to drilling fluids.
• Collaborate with drilling engineers and geologists to achieve drilling objectives.

Skills

Drilling fluids

Fluid design

Laboratory testing

Problem solving

Communication skills

Education

Engineering degree

Tools

Drilling fluid software

Laboratory equipment

Job description

About the Role Our client, a key service provider in the Oil & Gas sector, is seeking a Senior Drilling Fluids Engineer to join their team in **Bloemfontein, Free State**. This role is essential for ensuring the successful and efficient execution of drilling operations through expert management of drilling fluid systems. You will provide technical guidance, troubleshoot fluid-related issues, and optimize fluid formulations to enhance drilling performance and wellbore stability. This position operates on a hybrid model, combining essential on-site collaboration in **Bloemfontein** with the flexibility of remote work for analysis and reporting. Your expertise will directly impact drilling efficiency and safety across various projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and manage drilling fluid programs for various drilling operations.
• Supervise and train drilling fluids technicians and on-site personnel.
• Conduct laboratory testing to evaluate fluid properties and performance.
• Troubleshoot downhole fluid-related problems and recommend solutions.
• Optimize drilling fluid formulations for specific well conditions, formations, and operational objectives.
• Monitor fluid performance and report on key parameters and recommendations.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations related to drilling fluids.
• Collaborate with drilling engineers and geologists to achieve drilling objectives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Chemical, Mechanical, Petroleum) or a related scientific field.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in drilling fluids engineering within the Oil & Gas industry.
• Proven experience in designing and managing complex drilling fluid systems.
• Strong knowledge of drilling fluid properties, additives, and their impact on wellbore stability and drilling efficiency.
• Experience with drilling fluid software and laboratory testing equipment.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, suitable for a hybrid work environment.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team in **Bloemfontein**.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel occasionally to well sites.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, complemented by performance bonuses and a comprehensive benefits plan including medical aid and retirement fund contributions. Opportunities for professional development and career advancement are available through ongoing training and exposure to diverse projects. The hybrid work model in **Bloemfontein** provides a good balance between office-based collaboration and remote flexibility. You will be part of a reputable organization committed to technical excellence and operational success within the **Free State** province and the broader Oil & Gas sector.