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Contract Mud Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Stellent IT LLC

.Net Programmer

Richmond, VA · On-site

Contract ONLY LOCAL With LOCAL DL * Interview Process: In Person Only * **ALL interviews ONSITE ... Mud Blazor component library * Front End: HTML, CSS, JS * Dapper ORM data access * Azure DevOps for ...

Overland AI

Software Engineer, Platforms

Seattle, WA · On-site

$140K - $300K/yr

Backed by eight-figure contracts across the Department of Defense, we are strengthening national ... You are passionate about building systems that work in the real world: despite rain, snow, and mud.

Froehling & Robertson

Senior Driller

Richmond, VA · On-site

$32.11 - $39.32/hr

... contracts in order to meet client requirements * Consults and assists engineering staff with scope ... Experience with HSA, SPT, mud rotary, and/or rock coring required * Demonstrates high proficiency ...

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Contract Mud Engineer information

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$30

$48

$99

How much do contract mud engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract mud engineer in the United States is $48.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.11 and $50.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Contract Mud Engineer vs Contract Drilling Engineer?

AspectContract Mud EngineerContract Drilling Engineer
CredentialsRelevant certifications in mud engineering, such as IWCF or IWCF-certified mud engineerEngineering degree, often with certifications in drilling or petroleum engineering
Work EnvironmentOn-site at drilling locations, focusing on mud systems and fluid propertiesOn-site or office-based, overseeing entire drilling operations and planning
Industry UsagePrimarily in drilling and mud management companiesIn drilling contractors and oil & gas exploration firms

The Contract Mud Engineer specializes in managing drilling fluids and mud systems, ensuring wellbore stability. In contrast, the Contract Drilling Engineer oversees the entire drilling process, including planning, safety, and operations. Both roles require technical expertise but focus on different aspects of drilling projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Mud Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Mud Engineer, you need a strong background in chemistry, geology, and drilling fluid technology, often supported by a degree in engineering or earth sciences. Familiarity with drilling fluid software, mud testing equipment, and industry certifications like Well Control are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are critical soft skills in this role. These competencies are essential for maintaining wellbore stability, optimizing drilling performance, and ensuring operational safety on drilling sites.

What are some common challenges faced by Contract Mud Engineers when working on remote drilling sites?

Contract Mud Engineers often encounter challenges such as limited access to resources, rapidly changing drilling conditions, and communication barriers with multi-disciplinary teams on remote sites. They must be adaptable, able to troubleshoot issues with drilling fluids in real time, and maintain accurate documentation despite sometimes unpredictable work environments. Additionally, balancing safety, cost-efficiency, and environmental compliance requires strong organizational and problem-solving skills.

What are Contract Mud Engineers?

Contract Mud Engineers are specialists in drilling fluid (or 'mud') systems who work on a contract basis for oil and gas companies. They are responsible for designing, testing, and managing the drilling fluids used during the drilling process to ensure safe and efficient operations. Their role includes monitoring mud properties, troubleshooting problems, and ensuring compliance with environmental and safety regulations. Unlike staff mud engineers, contract mud engineers are typically hired for specific projects or drilling campaigns.
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Contract Mud Engineer jobs near you
Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) Steerhand / Locator

Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) Steerhand / Locator

McCall Thomas Engineering Company, Inc.

Orangeburg, SC • On-site

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 hours ago

Job description

McCall Thomas Engineering Company, Inc. is seeking a Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) Locator to work with our construction crews to install underground telecommunications, power, water, sewer, and gas infrastructure. This will be a 1099 contract position with an opportunity to convert to full-time regular status with full benefits after 6 months. Travel will be required for this position- primarily in GA, NC and SC. (Current project work is in Southeast GA.)
About McCall-Thomas Engineering
McCall-Thomas Engineering is a trusted leader in the Electrical and Telecommunications industry, committed to delivering innovative and reliable solutions. With expertise in Communications Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electric Utility Services, and Field Operations, we provide comprehensive turn-key projects tailored to meet our clients' needs. McCall-Thomas Engineering we have been providing quality engineering and technical services since 1945.
A McCall-Thomas HDD Steerhand / Locator is responsible for tracking and guiding underground directional drilling operations for utility construction projects. This position works closely with the Drill Operator and crew members to safely install underground telecommunications, power, water, sewer, and gas infrastructure while maintaining production, accuracy, and safety standards.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
  • Operate HDD locating equipment and monitor drill head location, depth, and alignment.
  • Communicate continuously with the Drill Operator during bore operations.
  • Read and interpret utility locates, construction prints, and bore plans.
  • Ensure bores are completed according to project specifications and tolerances.
  • Identify and avoid existing underground utilities.
  • Assist with drill setup, teardown, and daily equipment inspections.
  • Maintain accurate bore logs and job documentation as required.
  • Perform potholing and verification of underground utilities.
  • Assist with mud mixing, tooling changes, and jobsite preparation.
  • Maintain a clean and safe work environment.
  • Follow all OSHA, company, and customer safety requirements.
  • Assist labor crews with general construction duties when needed.
  • Travel and overtime may be required depending on workload and project schedules.

Qualifications
  • HS diploma
  • Valid drivers license with clean driving record
  • Eligibility to work in the US without sponsorship
  • Previous HDD locating or utility construction experience preferred.
  • Ability to operate locating systems such as DigiTrak, Subsite, or similar equipment.
  • Understanding of underground utility construction practices.
  • Ability to read construction drawings and utility maps.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  • Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability preferred.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Must pass background check, MVR review, and drug screening if required.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and lift up to 75 lbs.
  • Ability to work in outdoor environments including heat, cold, mud, and uneven terrain.
  • Ability to work long hours, weekends, and emergency callouts when necessary.

Preferred Certifications
  • OSHA 10 or OSHA 30
  • First Aid/CPR
  • Flagging
  • CDL License
  • Utility locating certifications or HDD manufacturer training

Work Environment
  • Outdoor construction environment
  • Exposure to heavy equipment and underground utilities
  • Fast-paced utility construction projects with production deadlines

Reporting Structure
Reports To: HDD Foreman / Drill Operator / Construction Supervisor
What We Offer:
Benefits are not available to 1099 contract employees, but if converting to a regular full-time employee status after 6 months, benefits will be offered.

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