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Drilling Fluids Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Manual Machinist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Perform facing, turning, threading, drilling, boring, tapping, and other machining operations ... Collaborate with supervisors, engineers, and quality personnel to meet production schedules.

Our innovative rail products are manufactured and engineered for the safe and efficient loading ... of fuels and critical fluids. OPW makes above ground and below ground products for both ...

Our innovative rail products are manufactured and engineered for the safe and efficient loading ... of fuels and critical fluids. OPW makes above ground and below ground products for both ...

Our innovative rail products are manufactured and engineered for the safe and efficient loading ... of fuels and critical fluids. OPW makes above ground and below ground products for both ...

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Quality Inspector

Skokie, IL · On-site

$26 - $32/hr

... of fuels and critical fluids. OPW makes above ground and below ground products for both ... Engineered Products, Clean Energy & Fueling, Imaging & Identification, Pumps & Process Solutions ...

Machinist I - 2nd Shift

Skokie, IL · On-site

$25.75 - $38/hr

Our innovative rail products are manufactured and engineered for the safe and efficient loading ... of fuels and critical fluids. OPW makes above ground and below ground products for both ...

Machinist I - 2nd Shift

Skokie, IL

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

Our innovative rail products are manufactured and engineered for the safe and efficient loading ... of fuels and critical fluids. OPW makes above ground and below ground products for both ...

Machinist I

Skokie, IL

$19.75 - $27/hr

Our innovative rail products are manufactured and engineered for the safe and efficient loading ... of fuels and critical fluids. OPW makes above ground and below ground products for both ...

Machinist I

Skokie, IL · On-site

$19.75 - $27/hr

Our innovative rail products are manufactured and engineered for the safe and efficient loading ... of fuels and critical fluids. OPW makes above ground and below ground products for both ...

Machinist I

Skokie, IL · On-site

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

Our innovative rail products are manufactured and engineered for the safe and efficient loading ... of fuels and critical fluids. OPW makes above ground and below ground products for both ...

Machinist I

Skokie, IL

$19 - $25.25/hr

Our innovative rail products are manufactured and engineered for the safe and efficient loading ... of fuels and critical fluids. OPW makes above ground and below ground products for both ...

Machinist I

Skokie, IL

$19 - $25.25/hr

Our innovative rail products are manufactured and engineered for the safe and efficient loading ... of fuels and critical fluids. OPW makes above ground and below ground products for both ...

Machinist I - 2nd Shift

Skokie, IL

$19 - $25.25/hr

Our innovative rail products are manufactured and engineered for the safe and efficient loading ... of fuels and critical fluids. OPW makes above ground and below ground products for both ...

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... of fuels and critical fluids. OPW makes above ground and below ground products for both ... Engineered Products, Clean Energy & Fueling, Imaging & Identification, Pumps & Process Solutions ...

Our innovative rail products are manufactured and engineered for the safe and efficient loading ... of fuels and critical fluids. OPW makes above ground and below ground products for both ...

Machinist I - 2nd Shift

Skokie, IL · On-site

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

Our innovative rail products are manufactured and engineered for the safe and efficient loading ... of fuels and critical fluids. OPW makes above ground and below ground products for both ...

Full-Time/Part-Time RN/LPN

Chicago, IL · On-site

$28 - $38/hr

We have done this through our evidence based interventions and state of the art programming geared ... Must be able to assist with the evacuation of patients in the case of a drill or emergency. Must be ...

Full-Time/Part-Time RN/LPN

Chicago, IL · On-site

$28 - $38/hr

We have done this through our evidence based interventions and state of the art programming geared ... drill or emergency. • Must be aware of and accept that the position entails a high risk for ...

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Drilling Fluids Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$92.7K

$120.2K

$141.1K

How much do drilling fluids engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for drilling fluids engineer in Chicago, IL is $120,183.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $108,700.00 and $132,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drilling fluids engineer?

Drilling Fluids Engineers, also known as Mud Engineers, are professionals responsible for designing, testing, and managing the drilling fluids (or 'mud') used in oil and gas drilling operations. Their primary duties involve ensuring the properties of the fluids meet the requirements for efficient drilling, wellbore stability, and safety. They monitor and adjust fluid parameters to prevent issues such as blowouts, stuck pipes, or formation damage. These engineers work closely with drilling teams on-site and play a crucial role in both operational efficiency and environmental compliance.

What does a drilling fluids engineer do?

Oil companies are more likely to refer to a drilling fluids engineer as a “mud engineer.” As a mud engineer, your duties are varied and require specialized technical skills. Your primary responsibilities include creating the required mud combinations used at each stage of the well drilling process. You are in charge of all related tasks from ordering the needed materials from the stores to mixing the mud and making adjustments, checking stock, maintaining equipment, and forecasting what material you need next. You also test, monitor, and relay each day’s activities in the Daily Mud Report. Drilling fluids engineers generally work in an off-shore oil rig setting.

How does a drilling fluids engineer typically collaborate with drilling and geology teams on-site?

A Drilling Fluids Engineer works closely with drilling supervisors and geologists to ensure the drilling fluid properties are optimized for wellbore stability, formation protection, and drilling efficiency. Daily, they monitor mud properties, interpret test results, and recommend adjustments to fluid systems in response to downhole conditions. Effective communication is essential, as they must relay technical findings and collaborate on problem-solving, especially when unexpected well conditions arise. This teamwork helps minimize downtime and ensures safety and compliance with environmental standards.

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

To thrive as a Drilling Fluids Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical or petroleum engineering, strong analytical skills, and experience with fluid mechanics and drilling practices. Familiarity with drilling fluids software, mud logging systems, and certifications such as Well Control or HSE training are generally required. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and teamwork abilities enable effective collaboration with drilling crews and rapid response to operational challenges. These skills ensure optimal drilling performance, minimize risks, and maintain safety and environmental compliance on-site.

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

AspectDrilling Fluids EngineerDrilling Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in drilling fluids or petroleum engineeringEngineering degree, certifications in drilling operations or petroleum engineering
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, drilling sites, fluid testing facilitiesDrilling rigs, field locations, project planning offices
Industry UsageFocuses on fluid properties, testing, and managementFocuses on overall drilling operations, well planning, and execution

The main difference is that Drilling Fluids Engineers specialize in the properties, testing, and management of drilling fluids, ensuring wellbore stability and safety. Drilling Engineers oversee the entire drilling process, including planning, operations, and safety protocols. Both roles require technical expertise and often work closely on drilling projects, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Drilling Fluids Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Drilling Fluids Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Drilling Fluids Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $120,183 per year, or $57.8 per hour.

Manual Machinist

JM Industries, LLC

Chicago, IL • On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

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Job description

Job Title: Manual Machinist (Lathe, Boring Mill & Vertical Turret Lathe)

Position Summary

We are seeking a skilled Manual Machinist with strong experience operating conventional/manual machine tools, including engine lathes, horizontal boring mills, and vertical turret lathes (VTL). The ideal candidate will be capable of setting up and machining large, complex components to precise tolerances while maintaining high standards of quality and safety.

Key Responsibilities

  • Set up and operate manual engine lathes, horizontal boring mills, and vertical turret lathes (VTL).
  • Machine large and small components to tight tolerances based on blueprints and specifications.
  • Interpret technical drawings, GD&T, and work instructions.
  • Perform facing, turning, threading, drilling, boring, tapping, and other machining operations.
  • Select proper tooling, speeds, and feeds for various materials.
  • Perform precision measurements using micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, dial indicators, and other inspection tools.
  • Conduct in-process inspections to ensure dimensional accuracy and quality compliance.
  • Perform machine maintenance and keep equipment in safe operating condition.
  • Troubleshoot machining issues and make adjustments as necessary.
  • Maintain clean and organized work area in accordance with safety standards.
  • Collaborate with supervisors, engineers, and quality personnel to meet production schedules.

Required Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED required; technical/trade school training preferred.
  • 3–7+ years of experience operating manual lathes, boring mills, and vertical turret lathes.
  • Strong understanding of machining practices, tooling, and materials.
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings.
  • Experience machining large components preferred.
  • Proficient in precision measuring instruments.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with large castings and heavy industrial components.
  • Familiarity with rigging and crane operation for moving large parts.
  • Knowledge of basic shop math and trigonometry.
  • Welding or fabrication experience is a plus.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to stand for extended periods.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs (with assistance for heavier components).
  • Ability to work in a manufacturing/shop environment with exposure to noise and metalworking fluids.

Work Environment

This position operates in a manufacturing machine shop environment. The role requires strict adherence to safety protocols and the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:


  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance


Work Location: In person