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Drilling Fluids Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... 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 ...

Diamond/Core Driller Assistant

Moab, UT · On-site

$23.25 - $31.50/hr

Engineer Out Requirements, then Automate - We simplify, optimize, and then automate for scale ... Mix and manage drilling fluids and maintain circulation systems * Perform routine maintenance and ...

Engineer Out Requirements, then Automate - We simplify, optimize, and then automate for scale ... Mix and manage drilling fluids when required * Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of drilling ...

$21.50 - $29.25/hr

... construction, engineering, and environmental solutions across the United States. What can you ... Properly manage and dispose of drilling fluids and waste materials in accordance with environmental ...

WTX - DRILLER I

Odessa, TX · On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

... fluids, mud, snow and ice. * Must be able to repetitively climb stairs and ladders, work in an ... By leveraging its core competencies, particularly in drilling, engineering, automation, data ...

NORTH DAKOTA DRILLER I

Williston, ND · On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

... fluids, mud, snow and ice. * Must be able to repetitively climb stairs and ladders, work in an ... By leveraging its core competencies, particularly in drilling, engineering, automation, data ...

... engineering, and environmental solutions across the United States. What can you expect? As the ... Mix and prepare drilling fluids as required for operations. * Participate in preparing and ...

NORTH DAKOTA DRILLER I

Williston, ND · On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

By leveraging its core competencies, particularly in drilling, engineering, automation, data ... fluids, mud, snow and ice. * Must be able to repetitively climb stairs and ladders, work in an ...

WTX - DRILLER I

Odessa, TX

$23.25 - $31.50/hr

By leveraging its core competencies, particularly in drilling, engineering, automation, data ... fluids, mud, snow and ice. * Must be able to repetitively climb stairs and ladders, work in an ...

ETX FIELD. DRILLER I

Tyler, TX · On-site

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

... fluids, mud, snow and ice. * Must be able to repetitively climb stairs and ladders, work in an ... By leveraging its core competencies, particularly in drilling, engineering, automation, data ...

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Drilling Fluids Engineer information

See salary details

$90K

$116.7K

$137K

How much do drilling fluids engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for drilling fluids engineer in the United States is $116,666.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $105,500.00 and $128,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, software, or aerospace engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries. These roles often require advanced degrees, certifications, and leadership responsibilities.

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.

Are drilling engineers in demand?

Drilling engineers are in high demand in the oil and gas industry due to the ongoing need for complex well drilling and completion projects. Their expertise in well design, safety protocols, and the use of advanced drilling technologies makes them valuable, especially in regions with active exploration and production activities.

How much does a drilling fluids engineer make?

A drilling fluids engineer typically earns between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Senior engineers or those working in high-demand regions may earn higher salaries, and certifications in drilling or fluid management can enhance earning potential.

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 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.

What are Drilling Fluids Engineers?

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior drilling fluids engineers in the oil and gas industry can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and certifications. High-level engineers working in offshore or management roles often reach this compensation level due to the demanding environment and technical expertise required.

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 cities are hiring for Drilling Fluids Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Drilling Fluids Engineer 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 jobs? States with the most job openings for Drilling Fluids Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Drilling Fluids Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 13% Contract, and 7% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $116,666 per year, or $56.1 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Thompson Engineering is looking for a Driller Assistant, willing to travel. The Driller Assistant is responsible for assisting the Driller, other Driller Assistants, Soil Technicians and Project Engineers with the daily functions of geotechnical (with occasional environmental) drilling operations for both onshore and offshore project assignments.
Essential Functions of the Position
1. Perform variety of drilling duties handling drill rods, wrenches and other tools behind the drill rig equipment
2. Responsible for loading and unloading drilling equipment in and out of the company vehicles and trailers
3. Drives company vehicle to and from work sites
4. On time and consistent attendance
5. Picks up sacks filled with mud and empties the mud into the mixer container
6. Monitors the fluid properties of the drilling fluids (mud)
7. Equipment repairs and maintenance in the field and at shop
Other Responsibilities
1. Follow safety procedures
2. Follow quality procedures
3. Other duties as required
Minimum Requirements
1. High School diploma or equivalent
2. Must be able to follow verbal and written instructions
3. Valid Driver's License required
4. Commercial Driver's License (CDL) preferred
5. Mechanical aptitude; past experience with working with mechanical systems of some type
6. Past experience with working with hydraulic systems of some type preferred
7. Ability to work on both onshore and offshore project assignments for extended periods of time as may be required for the projects
Physical Requirements
1. Ability to work in the field or outside 12 months of the year up to 100% of scheduled work hours
2. Required to be standing or walking for up to 12 hours per work day and walk on uneven/unstable surfaces, concrete, grass, dirt, gravel
3. Must be able to bend, stoop and climb
4. Must be able to communicate verbally
5. Required to be able to lift up to 100 lb. sacks of materials
6. Ability to manipulate with hands to screw and unscrew equipment, operate tools and machinery
7. Ability to travel and stay overnight on out of town assignments, and work flexible schedules including overtime based on the drilling work load
About Us:
Thompson Engineering was formed in 1953 to provide quality assurance for construction projects related to industrial, infrastructure, and community development. As a drilling, materials testing, and construction inspection and chemistry laboratory firm, we supported the engineering and construction industry. Our early years were building blocks that allowed us to get our feet wet - literally - performing services along the Gulf Coast's rivers, bayous, and streams.
Today, Thompson Engineering is known for leadership on projects defining skylines, coastlines, and transportation lines. We support clients in the industrial, commercial, transportation, federal, and municipal markets. We are often the first company on project sites conducting environmental assessments, land surveys, and geotechnical studies. And our project management and construction management services often mean we are the last ones to leave. We are a proven leader in the planning, design, and construction of major transportation, economic development, and waterfront projects across the Southeast.
Thompson Engineering and Watermark Design Group are equal opportunity employers. M/F/D/V. Pre-employment drug screen, physical and motor vehicle record checks are required.