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Directional Drilling Well Planning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Calculate well path designs using information provided by client's Engineers and geologists ... drilling or directional planning is a plus. * Desire computer skills experience in MS Office.

Scientific Drilling is looking for a Well Planner Scientific Drilling is an independent directional ... drilling or directional planning is a plus.Desire computer skills experience in MS Office.

Calculate well path designs using information provided by client's Engineers and geologists ... drilling or directional planning is a plus. * Desire computer skills experience in MS Office.

Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) experience is required * Must have previous experience working from blueprints, and specifications * High school education or equivalent classes in industry ...

Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) experience is required * Must have previous experience working from blueprints, and specifications * High school education or equivalent classes in industry ...

Senior Drilling Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$99K - $137K/yr

Ability to demonstrate competency in core well engineering fundamentals, including casing design, directional drilling, drill string / BHA design, drilling fluids, cementing, and contingency planning

Senior Drilling Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$99K - $137K/yr

Ability to demonstrate competency in core well engineering fundamentals, including casing design, directional drilling, drill string / BHA design, drilling fluids, cementing, and contingency planning

Directional Driller

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$20 - $40/hr

... well in a team setting. Requirements * Proven experience as a Directional Bore Operator. * Valid driver's license and clean driving record. * Ability to operate and maintain directional drilling ...

Directional Driller

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$20 - $40/hr

... well in a team setting. Requirements * Proven experience as a Directional Bore Operator. * Valid driver's license and clean driving record. * Ability to operate and maintain directional drilling ...

Ability to demonstrate competency in core well engineering fundamentals, including casing design, directional drilling, drill string / BHA design, drilling fluids, cementing, and contingency planning

Directional Driller

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$20 - $40/hr

... well in a team setting. Requirements * Proven experience as a Directional Bore Operator. * Valid driver's license and clean driving record. * Ability to operate and maintain directional drilling ...

Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) experience is required * Must have previous experience working from blueprints, and specifications * High school education or equivalent classes in industry ...

You will oversee daily drilling activities, coordinate field operations, and ensure work is ... Free wellness benefits like counseling, financial planning, and more Additional Employment ...

Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) experience is required * Must have previous experience working from blueprints, and specifications * High school education or equivalent classes in industry ...

You will oversee daily field activities, support drilling operations, and ensure work is completed ... financial planning, caregiver support, and more Additional Employment Information: We will ...

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Directional Drilling Well Planning information

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$13

$26

$34

How much do directional drilling well planning jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for directional drilling well planning in the United States is $26.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is directional drilling well planning?

Directional drilling well planning is the process of designing the trajectory and path of a wellbore to reach specific underground targets while avoiding obstacles and optimizing resource extraction. This involves analyzing subsurface geology, choosing the best entry and exit points, and using advanced software to plot the well's course. The planning ensures the drilling operation is safe, efficient, and cost-effective, taking into consideration both technical and environmental factors. It is a crucial step in modern oil and gas exploration and development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in directional drilling well planning?

To excel in Directional Drilling Well Planning, you need a solid background in petroleum engineering or geoscience, strong mathematical skills, and experience with well design principles. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as Landmark, WellPlan, and Compass, as well as knowledge of measurement-while-drilling (MWD) systems and anti-collision software, is essential. Problem-solving ability, attention to detail, and effective communication with multidisciplinary teams are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective drilling operations while minimizing risks and meeting project objectives.

What are the most common challenges faced when planning directional drilling wells, and how can they be addressed?

Directional drilling well planning often involves overcoming subsurface uncertainty, managing wellbore stability, and ensuring precise trajectory execution. Planners must interpret complex geological data, anticipate drilling hazards, and coordinate closely with geologists, drilling engineers, and field crews. Utilizing advanced modeling software and regularly updating plans based on real-time data can help mitigate risks. Collaboration and clear communication with multidisciplinary teams are essential to adapt to changing conditions and deliver successful well outcomes.

What is the difference between Directional Drilling Well Planning vs Well Logging?

AspectDirectional Drilling Well PlanningWell Logging
Primary FocusDesigning and planning the drilling process, including trajectory and equipmentAnalyzing subsurface formations through data collection during or after drilling
Required CredentialsGeology, petroleum engineering certifications, technical trainingGeology, petrophysics, or geoscience certifications
Work EnvironmentOffshore/onshore drilling sites, engineering officesDrilling rigs, logging units, laboratory settings
Industry UsageUsed during the planning phase of drilling operationsUsed during and after drilling to evaluate formations

While both roles are integral to drilling operations, Directional Drilling Well Planning focuses on designing the drilling trajectory and equipment setup, whereas Well Logging involves collecting and analyzing subsurface data during or after drilling. Both require technical expertise and are essential for successful well execution.

More about Directional Drilling Well Planning jobs

What cities are hiring for Directional Drilling Well Planning jobs?

Cities with the most Directional Drilling Well Planning job openings:

What states have the most Directional Drilling Well Planning jobs?

States with the most job openings for Directional Drilling Well Planning jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Directional Drilling Well Planning jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Directional Drilling Well Planning jobs are:

Infographic showing various Directional Drilling Well Planning job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,296 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Scientific Drilling International rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

475th of 491 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Scientific Drilling is looking for a Well Planner Scientific Drilling is an independent directional drilling and wellbore navigation, surveying and logging Service Company serving customers worldwide. Our industry-leading navigation systems provide definitive wellbore placement information, enabling safer and more efficient placement of tightly spaced wellbores throughout the world. We are motivated by crafting innovative and elegant solutions to technically challenging problems.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Work with Engineers and customers to gather preliminary data and design well plans in customary formats, including Torque-Drag and Hydraulics when required.
  • Calculate well path designs using information provided by client's Engineers and geologists.
  • Prepare and/or approve planning reports, anti-collision reports, preliminary plots and wall plots for clients, SDI office and field use.
  • Supervise daily updates to appropriate databases with daily surveys provided by SDI field personnel.
  • Prepare and submit PVA plots and daily reports to clients.
  • Monitor and advise on close approach scenarios when drilling conditions necessitate.
  • Assist in monitoring Daily Key Performance Indicators (KPI) as required by clients, prepare and/or approve EOW (End of Well) Key Performance Indicators (KPI's), Final Reports and plots for clients and SDI office at the end of each job.
  • From time to time, may go on-site or to client site to consult with drilling personnel regarding wellbore position and other issues related to well planning, drilling engineering, or operations.
  • Develop proficiency using Torque & Drag and Hydraulics software to help clients understand drilling issues.
  • Learn more complex engineering software applications as applicable to advising clients.
  • Support other district Well Planners and Engineers to cover peak loads, provide computer support, and solve problems.
  • Provide well planning and engineering support for tenders, initial support when launching new districts.
  • In-House well planning/engineering if applicable.
  • May participate in industry specific best practices groups such as SPE, AADE, IADD, etc. Actively engaged in further academic and technical proficiency.
  • Must be cross trained in Scientific Drilling applications.
  • Under direct supervision of the District Manager.
  • Perform other relevant duties as required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Learns quickly and adapts to new problems and situations.
  • Pursues every job with drive and determination.
  • Uses logic to solve problems with effective solutions.
  • Is personally committed to continual improvement and client satisfaction.
  • Actively listens, and proficient in oral and written communication with managers, peers, and clients.
  • Presents self with professional appearance and behavior.
  • Ability to multi-task.
  • Proven track record of soft skills in communication and team building.

Education, Experience, Certification, and Training:

  • Bachelor degree in Engineering or Science (Mechanical, Petroleum, Civil, Industrial, Aerospace, Math, and Physics) or equivalent required. Appropriate substitute of both employer coursework and industry experience may be considered.
  • 2-3 years of well planning experience a plus.
  • 1 - 3 years field experience in upstream oil and gas field drilling, surveying, measurement while drilling or directional planning is a plus.
  • Desire computer skills experience in MS Office.
  • Proficiency in Landmark Graphics COMPASS™ or equivalent Planning software.

Location, Physical Requirements & PPE:

Ability to walk, stand, sit, kneel, push, stoop, reach above the shoulder, grasp, pull, bend repeatedly, climb stairs, identify colors, hear with aid, see, write, count, read, speak, analyze, alphabetize, lift and carry under 45 lbs., perceive depth and operate a motor vehicle.

Conditions may include working inside and/or outside. May work around machines with moving parts and moving objects. Working near radiant and electrical energy. Working closely with others or working alone. Working extended or irregular hours and travelling by all possible modes of transportation.

Equipment (machines, tools, devices) used in performing the essential job function include, but are not limited to, computers and related equipment, calculators, copiers, fax machines, telephone, and vehicles. Ability to wear proper personal protective equipment, including, but not limited to, safety glasses, hardhat, reinforced toed shoes, coveralls, gloves, and ear plugs or muffs.

Limitations and Disclaimer:

This job description describes the general duties and responsibilities and physical requirements associated with the position; it is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or skills required for the position.

The general duties and responsibilities and physical requirements associated with the position are subject to modification in order to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. Some physical requirements may exclude individuals who pose a threat or risk to the health or safety to themselves or others.

This job description neither states nor implies that the listed general duties and responsibilities and physical requirements associated with the position are the only tasks expected of an employee. An employee is also required to follow any other job-related instructions and perform any other job-related tasks requested by their supervisor and not in violation of any applicable laws, regulations, or rules.

Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills, and abilities. To perform this job successfully, an employee must possess the abilities and aptitudes to perform each duty, responsibility, and physical requirement proficiently.

This position will be offered on an "at will" basis.


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