Senior Drilling Supervisor - Well Operations

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement fund

Generous leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Drilling Supervisor for an on-site role in Upington, Northern Cape. You will oversee drilling operations, lead crews, and ensure safe, cost-efficient execution of programs in a challenging remote environment.

Key requirements include extensive drilling supervision experience, strong leadership, and IWCF Level 4 certification. The role offers a comprehensive benefits package and opportunities for career progression in the upstream sector.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience supervising drilling operations in Oil & Gas.
• Proven ability to lead crews, make critical decisions, and manage budgets.
• Strong knowledge of drilling equipment, well control, and HSE requirements.

Responsibilities

• Supervise drilling and related activities on rig site to ensure safe, efficient ops.
• Develop and implement detailed drilling programs with engineering team.
• Monitor progress, wellbore stability, and fluids management; adjust as needed.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, regs, and HSE standards.
• Lead rig personnel; provide training and performance feedback.
• Oversee maintenance and integrity of drilling equipment and tools.
• Control costs and keep operations within budget.
• Coordinate with geology, completions, and production teams.
• Prepare daily progress reports and operational summaries.

Skills

Drilling supervision

Leadership

Decision making

Problem solving

Communication skills

Shift work adaptability

HSE management

Education

IWCF Level 4 certification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent operator in the Oil & Gas exploration and production sector, is seeking a seasoned Senior Drilling Supervisor to oversee well operations. This critical on-site role is based in the operational hub of Upington, Northern Cape, ZA . The successful candidate will be responsible for the safe, efficient, and cost-effective execution of drilling programs, ensuring adherence to the highest industry standards. This position demands extensive hands-on experience in drilling operations, a strong understanding of drilling equipment and techniques, and exceptional leadership capabilities. You will lead drilling crews, manage day-to-day operations, and ensure all activities are conducted in compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations. We are looking for a dedicated professional who can make critical decisions in dynamic environments and drive operational excellence in well construction. This is an invaluable opportunity to contribute to significant drilling projects and advance your career within a leading energy company.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and direct all drilling and related activities on the rig site to ensure safe and efficient operations.
• Develop and implement detailed drilling programs and procedures in coordination with the drilling engineering team.
• Monitor drilling progress, wellbore stability, and fluid management, making necessary adjustments to optimize operations.
• Ensure compliance with all company policies, industry regulations, and HSE standards.
• Manage rig personnel, providing leadership, training, and performance feedback.
• Oversee the maintenance and integrity of drilling equipment and tools.
• Control drilling costs and ensure operations remain within budget.
• Liaise with other disciplines, including geology, completions, and production, to ensure smooth well operations.
• Conduct daily progress meetings and prepare accurate operational reports.

Requirements

• Extensive experience as a Drilling Supervisor or similar field supervisory role within the Oil & Gas industry.
• Proven track record of safely managing complex drilling operations.
• In-depth knowledge of drilling equipment, techniques, well control procedures, and HSE management systems.
• Strong leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and in challenging remote environments.
• Relevant industry certifications (e.g., IWCF Level 4) are highly desirable.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to manage diverse teams.
• Experience or familiarity with the operational context in Upington, Northern Cape, ZA is a plus.
• Availability for shift work and extended periods on location.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package designed to attract and retain top talent. This includes robust health insurance, retirement fund provisions, and generous time off in accordance with industry standards. The role provides ample opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the upstream Oil & Gas sector. Working in Upington, Northern Cape, ZA , offers exposure to unique operational environments. Our client prioritizes safety, operational integrity, and employee well-being, providing a stable and supportive work setting for its supervisors.