ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Drilling Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SM-Energy Company

Sr. Drilling Engineer

Midland, TX · On-site

Accountable for the drilling engineering planning, data-driven AFE estimates with capital accuracy, and the detailed drilling program preparation aligned with the program's standardized operational ...

Ormat

Sr. Drilling Engineer

Reno, NV · On-site

... drilling and workover operations. It is a lifecycle well engineering role supporting drilling ... Responsibilities include ownership of engineering design and operational program development and ...

Ormat Technologies, Inc.

Sr. Drilling Engineer

Reno, NV · On-site

... drilling and workover operations. It is a lifecycle well engineering role supporting drilling ... Responsibilities include ownership of engineering design and operational program development and ...

QB Energy

Sr Drilling Engineer

Denver, CO

$206K - $255K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline is required Experience: * 10+ years of experience in drilling engineering or significant field exposure to ...

Devon Energy

Sr Drilling Engineer

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

Performs drilling engineering work requiring application of complex techniques, procedures, and criteria in carrying out a sequence of engineering tasks and develops precise and accurate well designs ...

Devon Energy

Sr Drilling Engineer

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

Job Responsibilities: • Performs drilling engineering work requiring application of complex techniques, procedures, and criteria in carrying out a sequence of engineering tasks and develops precise ...

ASRC

Drilling Engineer - ACES

Anchorage, AK

As part of the drilling engineering team, you will deliver engineering design, program preparation and operational support on new and existing wells. Working with multi-disciplinary teams, you will ...

ProSidian Consulting

Drilling Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site +1

Coordinates with engineering, finance, legal, construction, operations, environmental, HSE, and ... Drilling Engineer | Technical Due Diligence & Engineering Validation For Upstream Oil & Gas ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDrilling Engineering Jobs

Drilling Engineering information

See salary details

$45.5K

$87.1K

$122K

How much do drilling engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for drilling engineering in the United States is $87,066.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $121,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is drilling engineering?

Drilling engineering is a specialized field within petroleum engineering that focuses on the design, planning, and management of oil and gas well drilling operations. Drilling engineers are responsible for ensuring that wells are drilled safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively, while also minimizing environmental impact. Their work includes selecting appropriate drilling equipment, designing well plans, overseeing drilling crews, and troubleshooting technical issues that arise during drilling. Drilling engineers collaborate closely with geologists, production engineers, and other specialists to maximize resource recovery.

What are some typical challenges a drilling engineer faces when working on a new well project?

Drilling Engineers often encounter challenges such as unexpected subsurface conditions, equipment malfunctions, and maintaining strict safety and environmental standards. They must coordinate closely with geologists, rig crews, and service providers to adapt drilling plans in real time and optimize well performance. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are crucial, as is the ability to analyze data quickly to minimize delays and costs while ensuring operational safety.

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 the complexity of projects. Senior or specialized drilling engineers can earn higher salaries, especially when working in offshore or high-demand regions, often supplemented by bonuses and benefits.

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, certifications, and safety knowledge. The job often involves working in remote locations and can have a demanding schedule.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drilling engineer?

To thrive as a Drilling Engineer, you need a solid background in petroleum or mechanical engineering, strong analytical skills, and relevant field experience, often supported by a bachelor's degree in engineering. Familiarity with drilling simulation software, well control systems, and certifications like IWCF or IADC are typically required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication set outstanding drilling engineers apart. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective drilling operations in challenging environments.

What is the difference between Drilling Engineering vs Well Engineering?

AspectDrilling EngineeringWell Engineering
Primary FocusDesign and execution of drilling operations to reach subsurface targetsDesign and planning of wellbore construction, including casing and cementing
Work EnvironmentOffshore and onshore drilling sitesOn-site and office-based well planning facilities
CredentialsEngineering degree, drilling certificationsEngineering degree, well control certifications

Both roles require engineering backgrounds and certifications, often working closely in oil and gas exploration. Drilling Engineers focus on the drilling process itself, while Well Engineers concentrate on designing and planning the wellbore structure. Understanding these distinctions helps professionals and employers align skills with job responsibilities.

More about Drilling Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Drilling Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Drilling Engineering job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Drilling Engineering jobs? The most popular types of Drilling Engineering jobs are:
Drilling Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drilling Engineering job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,066 per year, or $41.9 per hour.

Drilling Engineering Specialist

EOG Resources, Inc.

Midland, TX • On-site

Other

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

EOG Resources rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 86 rated oil and gas companies

Job description

Provide direction and supervision for drilling operations as assigned. Write cost estimates and drilling procedures. Evaluate and implement current and new technological advances for drilling operations and spread knowledge to the operations groups. Will be responsible for designing complicated drilling procedures, including straight, directional and horizontal. Must be current on all new industry drilling technologies and be willing to innovate
JOB REQUIREMENTS
BS in Petroleum Engineering. 10+ years experience in the oil and gas industry as a Drilling Engineer is required. Expertise in horizontal and geopressured areas is a must. Must be current on all new drilling technologies. Must be able to make sound engineering decisions with minimal management overview. Strong computer skills required; a working knowledge of Compass and TDAS a plus. Must have good communication skills, work well in a team environment, be a self starter and flexible to change in both functions and responsibilities.
Position will be filled at level commensurate with experience.

EOG Resources is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including Veterans and Disabled.

What EOG Resources employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply