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Drilling Engineer Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

Patterson-UTI

Engineer ULTCAD

Calgary, AB

Drilling Application Analysis: * Collect, analyze, and manage technical data related to drilling ... Utilize engineering principles, product knowledge, and deductive reasoning to design and optimize ...

Precision Drilling

Senior Network Analyst

Calgary, AB · Hybrid

... engineer with deep firewall, routing, and switching expertise who wants to work on real-world, business-critical infrastructure-not just maintain it. CULTURE Precision Drilling fosters a strong ...

Drilling Services

Derrickhand

Edmonton, AB · On-site

CA$48.70/hr

The position requires mixing chemicals, monitoring pump manifolds and most importantly, good communication with the Driller and the Engineer. Position is full-time seasonal position . Seasonal work ...

Precision Drilling

Welder Apprentice

Calgary, AB

Fabricate, fit, and repair drilling rig components and equipment according to engineering drawings and quality standards * Perform basic welding using GMAW, FCAW, and MCAW processes with manual and ...

Precision Drilling

Journeyman Millwright

Calgary, AB

On-Site At Precision Drilling, our mission is to deliver safe, sustainable, and high-performance ... from engineering drawings with minimal defects and mentoring apprentices as needed WHAT WE NEED ...

Halliburton

Software Engineer - Landmark

Calgary, AB

Drilling engineering and well planning * Reservoir engineering and modeling * Production engineering and optimization * E&P data management and integration * Cloud and platform infrastructure, data ...

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All JobsDrilling Engineer JobsDrilling Engineer Jobs in Alberta

Drilling Engineer information

See Alberta salary details

$51.5K

$138.1K

$332K

How much do drilling engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for drilling engineer in Alberta is $138,060.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,500.00 and $150,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drilling engineer?

Drilling engineers plan and execute the drilling operations for oil, gas, and mining companies. In this job, you extract minerals, metal ores, oil, and natural gas from mines, various landforms, and underwater. Your responsibilities may include inspecting new sites, analyzing data on production levels, and troubleshooting issues. Additionally, your job is to assist other energy professionals with the cost and budgeting of heavy equipment and necessary tools for drilling.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drilling engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drilling Engineer, you need a solid background in petroleum engineering or a related field, with expertise in drilling operations, well design, and safety protocols. Familiarity with drilling software (such as Landmark or WellPlan), hydraulic modeling tools, and certifications like IWCF or Well Control are often required. Strong analytical skills, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for coordinating with multidisciplinary teams and addressing operational challenges. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and cost-effective drilling of wells, minimizing risks and maximizing project success.

How does a drilling engineer typically collaborate with geologists and other team members during a drilling project?

Drilling Engineers work closely with geologists, reservoir engineers, and drilling supervisors to ensure drilling operations are efficient and safe. They rely on geologists for subsurface data and formation analysis, which helps in planning well trajectories and anticipating potential drilling hazards. Regular meetings and real-time data sharing are common, allowing the team to make quick decisions when unexpected conditions arise. This collaborative environment ensures that drilling objectives are met while adhering to safety and environmental standards.

What is the difference between Drilling Engineer vs Well Engineer?

AspectDrilling EngineerWell Engineer
Primary FocusDesigning and supervising drilling operationsDesigning and managing well construction and completion
Work EnvironmentDrilling rigs, field sitesOffices, field sites, wellsites
CredentialsBachelor's in Petroleum Engineering or related field; certifications like IWCFBachelor's in Petroleum or Mechanical Engineering; similar certifications
Industry UsageOil & gas exploration, drilling companiesOil & gas operators, service companies

While both roles involve oil and gas well development, Drilling Engineers focus on planning and executing drilling operations, whereas Well Engineers concentrate on designing and managing the entire well lifecycle, including completion and workover activities.

How much money do drilling engineers make?

Drilling engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000 to $150,000, depending on experience, location, and industry sector. Senior or specialized drilling engineers with extensive experience or certifications can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $200,000 annually.

Is drilling engineering a good career?

Drilling engineering is a specialized field within the oil and gas industry that involves designing and managing drilling operations. It offers high earning potential, opportunities for advancement, and requires technical skills, problem-solving, and safety knowledge. The career can involve working in remote locations and demanding schedules but provides strong job stability in the energy sector.
More about Drilling Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Drilling Engineer jobs in Alberta?

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For Drilling Engineer jobs in Alberta, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Drilling Engineer jobs in Alberta look for?

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Cities in Alberta with the most Drilling Engineer job openings:

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Drilling Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drilling Engineer job openings in Alberta as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $138,060 per year, or $66.4 per hour.

Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) Engineer - Data Analysis Specialist

Calgary, AB • On-site

Citadel Drilling / Opla Energy
See more jobs at Citadel Drilling / Opla Energyexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Location: Houston, Texas or Calgary, Alberta


About Us

Opla Energy is a leader in the energy industry, providing cutting-edge drilling solutions that enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs. We specialize in Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) and leverage technology to optimize drilling performance. Our parent company, Citadel Drilling, is service-oriented and committed to meeting client needs with a fleet of modern, technically advanced AC triple (TA²CT) rigs—designed to maximize efficiency while minimizing costly downtime and labor expenses.


Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced MPD Engineer with a strong background in Python programming and data analysis. The ideal candidate will have hands-on expertise in MPD operations, real-time data processing, and automation of drilling workflows. The role requires understanding of MPD methodologies, downhole dynamics, and the ability to develop analytical tools to optimize drilling performance.


Key Duties and Responsibilities

  • Manage all aspects of project planning, proposal development, and program execution for MPD wells.
  • Prepare and deliver technical presentations and detailed reports on complex MPD projects and topics.
  • Collaborate with the R&D team to support the development and enhancement of proprietary MPD software.
  • Assist the sales team in client meetings, presentations, and providing technical expertise and support.
  • Provide remote and on-site engineering support to Opla personnel and clients.
  • Ensure full compliance with Opla’s safety policies, procedures, and corporate standards.
  • Deliver 24/7 engineering support for active field operations as required.
  • Design, implement, and optimize MPD strategies to enhance drilling performance and well control.
  • Develop and deploy Python-based data analysis tools for real-time drilling data monitoring and informed decision-making.
  • Analyze surface and downhole data to generate insights on wellbore pressure, flow dynamics, and drilling efficiency.
  • Work closely with drilling teams to improve MPD workflows, automation systems, and predictive modeling capabilities.
  • Ensure all MPD operations comply with applicable HSE and regulatory standards.
  • Support remote operations and assist in troubleshooting MPD systems in real time.
  • Provide technical support and feedback for MPD software improvements and new feature development.


Qualifications & Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Petroleum, Chemical, or Mechanical Engineering (minimum requirement).
  • Recent graduate with a minimum of 1 year of experience in drilling engineering or operations, preferably with exposure to Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD).
  • Holds or is eligible to obtain E.I.T. certification.
  • Shift work required, with a hybrid schedule split between home and Opla’s office.
  • Willing to travel as needed, including occasional trips to remote sites or international locations.
  • Strong proficiency in Python and Power BI (or similar tools) for data analysis, automation, and scripting.
  • Experience with real-time drilling data, machine learning algorithms, and IoT applications.
  • Solid understanding of drilling hydraulics, pressure control, and wellbore stability.
  • Practical experience with MPD software, surface control systems, and well control methodologies.
  • Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
  • Demonstrated willingness to learn and collaborate effectively in a team environment.
  • Ability to work independently in a fast-paced, high-energy setting.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks effectively.
  • Consistently maintains a professional and friendly demeanor.
  • Committed to upholding Opla’s Core Values.
  • Must possess a valid driver’s license.

Benefits

  • Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
  • Opportunity to work on innovative MPD projects with advanced technologies.
  • Professional development programs and training.
  • Collaborative and inclusive work environment.