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Drilling Fluids Engineer Trainee Jobs in Michigan

Machinist

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$20.50 - $28.25/hr

... drill presses, saws, EDM and other general tool room equipment. * Support CNC machining through ... Read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and work instructions * Machine parts to tight ...

Modify existing tooling for engineering changes or process improvements. Tooling Production ... Handle cutting fluids and materials in accordance with ISO 14001 where applicable. * Maintain ...

Showing results 21-27

Drilling Fluids Engineer Trainee information

See Michigan salary details

$12

$18

$31

How much do drilling fluids engineer trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling fluids engineer trainee in Michigan is $18.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.41 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a drilling fluids engineer trainee do?

A Drilling Fluids Engineer Trainee assists in managing and optimizing the drilling fluids (also known as drilling mud) used during oil and gas drilling operations. Their responsibilities include monitoring fluid properties, conducting tests, and supporting the drilling team in maintaining well stability and preventing formation damage. Trainees typically work under the supervision of experienced engineers and gradually gain hands-on experience with various fluid systems and field operations. They also help ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards while learning to troubleshoot issues that may arise during drilling.

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

To thrive as a Drilling Fluids Engineer Trainee, you need a background in engineering or geoscience, strong analytical skills, and a basic understanding of drilling operations, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with drilling fluid simulation software, laboratory testing equipment, and safety certifications such as H2S awareness are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication help you adapt to dynamic field environments and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure efficient drilling operations, minimize environmental risks, and promote safety and cost-effectiveness on site.

What are some common challenges faced by drilling fluids engineer trainees during their first assignments?

As a Drilling Fluids Engineer Trainee, one of the main challenges is adapting to the fast-paced, field-based work environment, often in remote locations with extended shifts. Trainees must quickly learn to monitor drilling fluid properties, troubleshoot unexpected changes, and communicate findings effectively with the drilling team. Balancing the technical aspects of fluid management with real-time problem-solving and safety compliance is key. Building strong relationships with experienced engineers and rig personnel helps trainees develop confidence and practical skills.

What is the difference between Drilling Fluids Engineer Trainee vs Drilling Fluids Engineer?

AspectDrilling Fluids Engineer TraineeDrilling Fluids Engineer
QualificationsTypically pursuing or recently completed relevant degree or certificationRequires a degree in petroleum engineering, chemical engineering, or related field, with some experience
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised on-site or in officeFull responsibility for fluid design, testing, and management on drilling sites
ResponsibilitiesLearning and assisting with fluid operations, gaining practical experienceDesigning, implementing, and optimizing drilling fluid systems independently

The main difference between a Drilling Fluids Engineer Trainee and a Drilling Fluids Engineer is experience level. Trainees are in learning and development stages, while engineers have full responsibilities in managing drilling fluids. Trainees focus on gaining knowledge, whereas engineers apply expertise to ensure efficient drilling operations.

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

The most popular types of Drilling Fluids Engineer jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Drilling Fluids Engineer Trainee jobs in Michigan?

For Drilling Fluids Engineer Trainee jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Drilling Fluids Engineer Trainee jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Drilling Fluids Engineer Trainee jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Drilling Fluids Engineer Trainee jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Drilling Fluids Engineer Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Drilling Fluids Engineer Trainee job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,342 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Machinist

Kratos Defense

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

$20.50 - $28.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Kratos Defense & Security Solutions rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY:

The Machinist is responsible for producing high-quality precision parts using primarily manual machining equipment, with the ability to support CNC operations as needed. This role supports the daily machining of prototype or small batch order  parts and serves as the go-to technical resource on the shop floor for complex or non-routine work, bringing deep hands-on experience in machining, setup, and problem-solving.

Key Responsibilities

  • Support the daily machining of parts to meet quality, delivery, and safety expectations
  • Setup and operate manual machines including Bridgeport mills, precision lathes, surface grinders, drill presses, saws,  EDM and other general tool room equipment.
  • Support CNC machining through setup, prove-outs, offsets, and minor program edits as needed
  • Serve as the go-to technical resource on the shop floor for complex or non-routine machining challenges
  • Read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and work instructions
  • Machine parts to tight tolerances and quality standards
  • Perform in-process inspections using calipers, micrometers, indicators, and gauges
  • Troubleshoot machining issues related to tooling, fixturing, and processes
  • Mentor junior machinists and support training on safe and effective machining practices
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area
  • Follow all safety, quality, and compliance procedures
  • Support continuous improvement, 6S, and process optimization efforts

Qualifications

Required

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • 10+ years of hands-on machining experience in a manufacturing environment
  • Strong proficiency with manual machining equipment (Bridgeport mills, lathes, grinders)
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and GD&T
  • Experience with precision measurement tools & Inspection layouts.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills
  • Demonstrated commitment to safety and quality
  • Experience in evaluation and selection of milling & lathe tools

Preferred

  • Experience in aerospace, defense, or precision manufacturing
  • Working knowledge of CNC machining (setup, offsets, basic troubleshooting)
  • Experience with fixture design or process improvement
  • Familiarity with AS9100 or ISO quality systems
  • Experience in cutting super alloys

Work Environment / Physical Requirements

  • Manufacturing shop environment
  • Standing and walking for extended periods
  • Frequent handling of materials, tooling, and fixtures
  • Exposure to noise, equipment, and cutting fluids
  • May be required to lift materials, components, or fixtures up to 50 lbs

Travel

  • None

THE ABOVE STATEMENTS ARE INTENDED TO DESCRIBE THE GENERAL NATURE AND LEVEL OF WORK BEING PERFORMED BY INDIVIDUALS ASSIGNED TO THIS CLASSIFICATION. THEY ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE CONSTRUED AS AN EXHAUSTIVE LIST OF ALL RESPONSIBILITIES, DUTIES AND SKILLS REQUIRED OF PERSONNEL SO CLASSIFIED.

A REVIEW OF THIS CLASSIFICATION HAS EXCLUDED THE MARGINAL FUNCTIONS OF THE CLASSIFICATION THAT ARE INCIDENTAL TO THE PERFORMANCE OF FUNDAMENTAL JOB JUTIES. ALL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ARE ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS AND REQUIREMENTS AND ARE SUBJECT TO POSSIBLE MODIFICATION TO REASONABLY ACCOMMODATE INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES TO PERFORM THIS JOB PROFICIENTLY.   THE REQUIREMENTS LISTED IN THIS DOCUMENT ARE THE MINIMUM LEVELS OF KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS OR ABILITIES.

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