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Directional Well Planner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Planner

Morgan Hill, CA

$135.37K - $177.92K/yr

Under direction of the Community Development Director/Development Services Director or designee ... environment, as well as with community stakeholders and regional partners. APPLICATION and ...

City Planner

Miamisburg, OH · On-site

$80.39K - $102.86K/yr

... as well as complex administrative, technical and professional work. The City Planner is a ... direction. * Strong organizational, interpersonal and conflict management skills. * Excellent ...

Senior Planner

Chestertown, MD · On-site

$63.84K - $102.15K/yr

Supervises Associate Planner within the Planning work group. Essential Functions Functions listed ... Adapts well to changing priorities, deadlines, and directions; works to eliminate all processes ...

Supervises Associate Planner within the Planning work group. Essential Functions Functions listed ... Adapts well to changing priorities, deadlines, and directions; works to eliminate all processes ...

Planner

King William, VA · On-site

$57.84K - $68K/yr

... the direction of a senior planner. Assists with public participation activities in support of ... REQUIRED SKILLS Written & Oral Communication - Preparing clear, concise, and well-organized staff ...

The planner is responsible for providing guidance, analysis, and oversight for their assigned demand portfolio to ensure alignment with business direction and objectives, as well as consistency with ...

Planner II

Colorado Springs, CO · Hybrid

$71.99K - $86.42K/yr

... well as special project assignments. The City is excited to continue utilizing a new Unified ... Problem-solving using logic and reasoning; ability to change direction as needed. Complete tasks in ...

... management direction Maintains FPO's and PLO's and Work Orders, RE-Plan based upon WO's & FPO ... well defined, with specific instructions to achieve standardized solutions • Work is closely ...

... management direction Maintains FPO's and PLO's and Work Orders, RE-Plan based upon WO's & FPO ... well defined, with specific instructions to achieve standardized solutions • Work is closely ...

... management direction Maintains FPO's and PLO's and Work Orders, RE-Plan based upon WO's & FPO ... well defined, with specific instructions to achieve standardized solutions Work is closely ...

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Directional Well Planner information

See salary details

$25.5K

$78.6K

$157.5K

How much do directional well planner jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for directional well planner in the United States is $78,592.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $90,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Directional Well Planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Directional Well Planner, you need a solid background in geology, drilling engineering, and well planning, typically supported by a degree in engineering or earth sciences and relevant industry experience. Proficiency with directional drilling software (such as Landmark, WellPlan, or Compass), CAD tools, and familiarity with industry regulations and reporting systems is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in collaborating with drilling teams and ensuring precise execution of well trajectories. These skills and qualities are crucial for optimizing drilling operations, minimizing risks, and ensuring project success in complex drilling environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Directional Well Planners and how can they be managed?

Directional Well Planners often face challenges such as unexpected subsurface conditions, maintaining wellbore stability, and ensuring accurate trajectory execution. These challenges require strong problem-solving skills, close collaboration with geologists and drilling engineers, and the ability to quickly adapt plans based on real-time data. Utilizing advanced planning software and regularly communicating with the drilling team can help manage risks and optimize well performance. Staying updated on technological advancements and best practices is also crucial for success in this role.

What are Directional Well Planners?

Directional Well Planners are specialists in the oil and gas industry who design and plan the paths of wells that are drilled at angles, rather than straight down, to reach specific underground targets. They use advanced software and geological data to create detailed drilling plans that maximize resource extraction while minimizing environmental impact and risk. Their work is essential for optimizing well placement, avoiding obstacles, and ensuring the safety and efficiency of drilling operations.

What is the difference between Directional Well Planner vs Drilling Engineer?

AspectDirectional Well PlannerDrilling Engineer
CredentialsPetroleum engineering degree, certifications in well planningPetroleum engineering degree, certifications in drilling operations
Work EnvironmentOffice-based with site visits for planningField and office-based, overseeing drilling operations
Industry UsagePrimarily involved in well design and planningResponsible for executing drilling plans and operations

The Directional Well Planner focuses on designing and planning well trajectories, ensuring safety and efficiency. The Drilling Engineer executes these plans on-site, managing drilling operations. While both roles require petroleum engineering credentials and industry experience, the planner emphasizes design, whereas the engineer emphasizes execution.

More about Directional Well Planner jobs
What cities are hiring for Directional Well Planner jobs? Cities with the most Directional Well Planner job openings:
What states have the most Directional Well Planner jobs? States with the most job openings for Directional Well Planner jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Directional Well Planner jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Directional Well Planner jobs are:
Infographic showing various Directional Well Planner job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Part Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 6% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 93% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,592 per year, or $37.8 per hour.

$135.37K - $177.92K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Description CITY OF MORGAN HILL SENIOR PLANNER $11,281 - $14,827 Monthly $135,372 - $177,888 Annually Choose Morgan Hill: The City of Morgan Hill is the best community for people to live, work, visit, and operate their businesses. The City of Morgan Hill focuses on meeting our core values of teamwork, innovation, customer service, professional growth, and overcoming challenges. If you share these core values and have a passion to serve our community, this may be the position for you.

The City of Morgan Hill Development Services Department is responsible for Planning, Building, Housing and Economic Development functions within the City. The City also offers a 2.5% @ 55 single highest year option for CalPERS Classic Members and 2% @ 62 for CalPERS PEPRA Members. JOB SUMMARY: Under direction of the Community Development Director/Development Services Director or designee, the Senior Planner conducts various professional activities related to the City's land use planning program, including serving as project manager for current planning, long-range planning and special studies environmental review, data analysis and related work as required

The Senior Planner may also acts as a front-line manager, supervising professional planning staff including Associate Planners, Assistant Planners and/or Planning Technicians to implement the City's land use planning program. The Senior Planner is expected to have substantial experience and expertise in the field of land use planning and to apply knowledge and skills gained through specialized training and depth of experience to complete complex long-range and/or current planning projects or assignments. The position requires the exercise of considerable initiative and discretion; the use of seasoned and independent judgment; and excellent communication and coordination skills.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS: This position plays a key leadership role within the City's Planning Division. This is a management classification that conducts day to day planning activities including conduct of land use entitlements, delivery of customer service, coordination with outside agencies and compliance with State and local regulations and that includes supervision of, mentoring or technical assistance to other planners and support staff and which may play a key role in development of the City's General Plan and other long-range planning activities. In addition, this position is responsible to conduct major planning projects and reports.

IDEAL CANDIDATE: The ideal candidate will be an accomplished long-range planning professional with extensive experience leading complex, policy-focused planning initiatives. This Senior Planner position is assigned to the Long-Range Planning Division and is dedicated exclusively to long-range and strategic planning efforts. The successful candidate will demonstrate a strong track record in the preparation and management of General Plans, Specific Plans, Design Guidelines, Zoning Code updates, Annexations, area plans, housing-related policy documents, and other long-range planning studies.

They will bring a high level of technical expertise, sound judgment, and the ability to translate complex planning concepts into clear, actionable policy direction. The ideal candidate will also excel in community engagement, interagency coordination, and the application of best practices in urban planning. They will be collaborative, solutions-oriented, and committed to advancing the City's long-term vision through thoughtful, data-driven planning.

A strong customer-service mindset, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work independently and in a team environment, as well as with community stakeholders and regional partners. APPLICATION and SELECTION PROCESS: If you are interested in this exciting opportunity, please apply on-line at www.morganhill.ca.govand submit the following items: A completed City of Morgan Hill employment application Responses to the supplemental questions Resume Cover Letter Copy of Certificates (if applicable) Final Filing Date: Friday, June 5, 2026. Examples of Duties The following duties are performed personally, in cooperation with the Community Development Director or designee and/or in coordination with other City staff and community groups

Additional duties may be assigned. As a project manager for current planning projects, including applications for general plan amendments, development agreements, zoning variances or changes, use permits, planned developments, site approvals, annexations, urban serve boundary adjustments, preliminary review applications, etc. achieves the following outcomes: Permitting of high-quality land use development within Morgan Hill consistent with the City's General Plan, zoning ordinance and other policies.

Use of effective communication, delivery of high-quality customer service, and establishment of positive working relationships with members of the community, elected officials, appointed boards and commissions, teammates in other City departments, staff of outside agencies, development industry representatives, and other stakeholders, promoting a positive image for the City Hall team. Compliance with applicable state laws, including the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and others as applicable. Consistency with work program objectives, project processing timelines and other performance measures.

Serving in a lead role for special long-range planning projects, such as a comprehensive General Plan update, preparation of area plans, zoning code changes, or other special studies achieves the following outcomes: Completion of complex, long-range planning projects consistent with work program timelines. Advancement of the use of land use planning "best practices" within Morgan Hill. A demonstrated commitment to providing adequate opportunity for community stakeholders to be fully engaged within the City's long-term planning and land use policy development processes.

Successful collaboration with representatives of other cities, the County and other public agencies which have an interest in land use planning in Morgan Hill. As a member of the Departmental management team, participate in strategic planning to accomplish Departmental objectives, provide mentoring and expertise to support the planning team and serve as a front-line supervisor to achieve the following outcomes: Efficient and timely delivery of planning services. Full cost-recovery conduct of the land use entitlement process.

Professional development opportunities for teammates leading to increased overall performance. Selection, management and supervision of consultants to provide expedited permitting and CEQA review consistent with Departmental budget objectives. Qualification Requirements To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.

Requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Education & Experience: Possess a Bachelors degree from an accredited college in urban planning, architecture, public administration or field closely related to the work. Four years of city planning experience.

Experience in municipal land use planning is desirable. Licenses & Certificates: Possession of a valid California Class C driver's license in compliance with adopted City driving standards. AICP Certification is desirable.

Other Requirements: Must be willing to attend evening meetings. Knowledge of: Current principles, practices and techniques of urban planning. Current supervisory principles and practices.

Zoning principles and methods. Economic forecasting and statistical research methods. Environmental issues as related to the planning process.

Applicable local, state and federal laws and regulations. Skill in: Planning, assigning, directing and reviewing the work of a professional staff and support staff. Implementing, interpreting and explaining complex policies, procedures, rules and regulations.

Conducting analytical studies, compiling statistical and economic data, evaluating alternatives, and making sound recommendations. Reading and interpreting maps and specifications. Providing outstanding customer service (internally and externally).

Facilitating multiple forms of community engagement. Use of common office software including Microsoft Office. Ability to: Manage complex near-term and long-term land use planning projects consistent with the City's objectives for timeliness and quality.

Exercise sound independent judgment within general policy guidelines. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of the work. Represent the City effectively in meetings with others.

Prepare clear, concise and competent reports, correspondence, and other written materials. Perform the essential functions of this position. Supplemental Information PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. Employee frequently is required to sit, stand, walk, use hands and fingers to handle or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, or crouch.

Employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, and depth perception, the ability to adjust focus. WORK ENVIRONMENT: Work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Employee generally works 90% indoors and 10% outdoors. The work environment indoors is usually in a temperature-controlled office; some travel is required.

Noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.