Senior Drilling Supervisor - Upington

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Daily allowances

Comprehensive medical aid and life保险

Retirement fund contributions

Accommodation and meals provided

Job summary

Placements24 recruits a Senior Drilling Supervisor to oversee on-site drilling operations in Upington, Northern Cape. You will lead drilling crews, supervise rig activities, enforce HSE standards, and ensure operations align with approved plans while delivering safe, efficient results.

The role requires deep hands-on drilling experience, strong leadership, and the ability to manage challenging environments.

Qualifications

• Seven years of experience in drilling supervision or as a driller/assistant driller with supervisory responsibilities.
• Valid IWCF Level 3 or 4 certification.
• Valid driver’s license and the ability to work on remote sites.
• Legally eligible to work in South Africa.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and manage all drilling operations on site, ensuring adherence to approved drilling programs.
• Ensure safety and regulatory compliance with HSE policies and regulations.
• Mentor and lead drilling crews to maintain a positive, productive work environment.
• Monitor progress, efficiency, and costs; implement corrective actions as needed.
• Oversee the maintenance and functioning of drilling equipment.
• Report daily drilling activities, issues, and performance metrics in a timely manner.
• Liaise with company representatives, service providers, and stakeholders to ensure smooth operations.
• Implement and manage emergency response procedures.
• Conduct rig inspections and safety audits.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of drilling operations and safety procedures.

Skills

Leadership

Safety leadership

Drilling operations

IWCF Level 3/4

Communication

Problem solving

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a reputable drilling contractor operating in the region, is seeking an experienced Senior Drilling Supervisor to oversee drilling operations in the Upington, Northern Cape area. This critical role involves ensuring that all drilling activities are conducted safely, efficiently, and in accordance with operational plans and industry best practices. You will be responsible for managing drilling crews, supervising rig operations, and ensuring compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards. The ideal candidate will possess extensive hands‑on experience in drilling operations, strong leadership qualities, and a commitment to operational excellence. This position requires a proactive individual who can manage challenging drilling environments and deliver results.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and manage all aspects of drilling operations on site, ensuring adherence to approved drilling programs.
• Ensure that all drilling operations are conducted safely and in compliance with company HSE policies and regulations.
• Manage and mentor drilling crews, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Monitor drilling progress, efficiency, and costs, implementing corrective actions as needed.
• Oversee the proper functioning and maintenance of drilling equipment.
• Ensure accurate and timely reporting of daily drilling activities, issues, and performance metrics.
• Liaise with company representatives, service providers, and other stakeholders to ensure smooth operations.
• Implement and manage emergency response procedures.
• Conduct rig inspections and safety audits.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of drilling operations and safety procedures.

Requirements

• Extensive experience as a Driller or Assistant Driller, with a minimum of 7 years in supervisory roles.
• Strong knowledge of drilling techniques, equipment, and downhole operations.
• Proven track record of safe and efficient drilling operations.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• In‑depth understanding of health, safety, and environmental regulations in the oil and gas or mining sector.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage challenging operational situations.
• Valid Well Control certification (e.g., IWCF Level 3 or 4).
• Valid driver's license and ability to work on remote sites.
• Must be legally eligible to work in South Africa.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package and daily allowances.
• Performance‑based bonus opportunities.
• Comprehensive medical aid and life insurance.
• Retirement fund contributions.
• Accommodation and meals provided during field assignments.
• Opportunities for career advancement and further training.
• Work on diverse drilling projects within the region.
• A safety‑focused work culture.