1

Drilling Fluids Engineer Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Engineer Trainee

Charleston, WV · On-site

$50K - $88K/yr

DEP2600192 Engineer Trainee West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection Division of Land ... Coordinate activities involving drilling, mapping, surveying, and water monitoring. Perform ...

The Geotechnical Field Engineer will support the planning, execution, and oversight of geothermal ... Familiarity with drilling fluids, cementing, casing, and directional drilling practices. * Strong ...

Engineer Trainee

Charleston, WV · On-site

$50K - $88K/yr

DEP2600192 Engineer Trainee West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection Division of Land ... Coordinate activities involving drilling, mapping, surveying, and water monitoring. * Perform ...

Directional Driller

Tampa, FL · On-site

$23 - $28.25/hr

Execute pilot bores, back-reaming, and pullback operations in accordance with engineered drawings ... Mix, monitor, and manage drilling fluids (mud) appropriate to Florida soil conditions (sand, clay ...

Bead Recovery Technician

Kermit, TX · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

... beads used in drilling fluids, ensuring minimal bead loss, optimal mud properties, and cost ... with mud engineers • Perform routine inspections, maintenance, and troubleshooting of bead ...

... Engineers with the daily functions of geotechnical (with occasional environmental) drilling ... drilling fluids (mud) 7. Equipment repairs and maintenance in the field and at shop Other ...

Driller Assistant

Mobile, AL

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

... Engineers with the daily functions of geotechnical (with occasional environmental) drilling ... drilling fluids (mud) 7. Equipment repairs and maintenance in the field and at shop Other ...

Driller Assistant

Mobile, AL · On-site

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

... Engineers with the daily functions of geotechnical (with occasional environmental) drilling ... drilling fluids (mud) 7. Equipment repairs and maintenance in the field and at shop Other ...

... Engineers with the daily functions of geotechnical (with occasional environmental) drilling ... drilling fluids (mud) 7. Equipment repairs and maintenance in the field and at shop Other ...

... Engineers with the daily functions of geotechnical (with occasional environmental) drilling ... drilling fluids (mud) 7. Equipment repairs and maintenance in the field and at shop Other ...

... Engineers with the daily functions of geotechnical (with occasional environmental) drilling ... drilling fluids (mud) 7. Equipment repairs and maintenance in the field and at shop Other ...

Driller Assistant

Mobile, AL · On-site

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

... Engineers with the daily functions of geotechnical (with occasional environmental) drilling ... drilling fluids (mud) 7. Equipment repairs and maintenance in the field and at shop Other ...

... Engineers with the daily functions of geotechnical (with occasional environmental) drilling ... drilling fluids (mud) 7. Equipment repairs and maintenance in the field and at shop Other ...

... Engineers with the daily functions of geotechnical (with occasional environmental) drilling ... drilling fluids (mud) 7. Equipment repairs and maintenance in the field and at shop Other ...

Driller Assistant

Mobile, AL · On-site

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

... Engineers with the daily functions of geotechnical (with occasional environmental) drilling ... drilling fluids (mud) 7. Equipment repairs and maintenance in the field and at shop Other ...

... Engineers with the daily functions of geotechnical (with occasional environmental) drilling ... drilling fluids (mud) 7. Equipment repairs and maintenance in the field and at shop Other ...

... Engineers with the daily functions of geotechnical (with occasional environmental) drilling ... drilling fluids (mud) 7. Equipment repairs and maintenance in the field and at shop Other ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Drilling Fluids Engineer Trainee information

See salary details

$13

$21

$36

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

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling fluids engineer trainee in the United States is $21.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.
More about Drilling Fluids Engineer Trainee jobs
What cities are hiring for Drilling Fluids Engineer Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Drilling Fluids Engineer Trainee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Drilling Fluids Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Drilling Fluids Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Drilling Fluids Engineer Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Drilling Fluids Engineer Trainee jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Drilling Fluids Engineer Trainee jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Drilling Fluids Engineer Trainee jobs are:
Infographic showing various Drilling Fluids Engineer Trainee job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 34% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,990 per year, or $21.1 per hour.
Geotechnical Field Engineer

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description


The Geotechnical Field Engineer will support the planning, execution, and oversight of geothermal well drilling operations in the field. This role involves technical supervision, coordination with contractors and crews, and ensuring compliance with safety, environmental, and engineering standards. The Field Engineer will be responsible for monitoring drilling activities, troubleshooting issues, and implementing solutions to ensure efficient and safe delivery of geothermal wells.


Key Responsibilities

  • Provide field engineering support during all phases of geothermal drilling projects.
  • Monitor drilling parameters, wellbore conditions, and equipment performance to ensure adherence to the drilling program.
  • Work closely with the Drilling Superintendent, Drilling Manager, and contractors to implement drilling plans and resolve technical challenges.
  • Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental (HSE) regulations and company policies.
  • Conduct daily reporting of drilling activities, equipment usage, consumables, and progress against plan.
  • Assist with well design, casing and cementing programs, mud programs, and testing procedures.
  • Evaluate drilling data to optimize performance, reduce non-productive time, and mitigate risks.
  • Participate in troubleshooting drilling issues such as stuck pipe, lost circulation, or downhole equipment failures.
  • Coordinate with vendors and service providers for tools, materials, and support services.
  • Support cost tracking and verify contractor invoices against field records.
  • Assist with post-drilling reviews, lessons learned, and continuous improvement initiatives.


Key Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Geothermal Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field (or equivalent work experience).
  • 2-5 years of field experience in drilling, preferably geothermal, oil & gas, or deep foundation projects.
  • Strong understanding of drilling rig operations, downhole tools, and well construction.
  • Familiarity with drilling fluids, cementing, casing, and directional drilling practices.
  • Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to adapt in fast-changing field environments.
  • Proficient in drilling software, Microsoft Office Suite, and data acquisition systems.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
  • Willingness to work in remote field locations and on a rotational schedule, as required.


Preferred Skills

  • Experience with geothermal well drilling and associated challenges.
  • Knowledge of geothermal reservoir engineering concepts.
  • Familiarity with environmental compliance requirements for geothermal projects.