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Drilling Optimization Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NOV, Inc.

Technical Sales Engineer

Houston, TX

Technical Sales Engineer Business Unit: Downhole Location: Houston, TX Reports To: Sales Director ... Analyze drilling and tool performance data to identify optimization opportunities and communicate ...

NOV, Inc.

Technical Sales Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

Technical Sales Engineer Business Unit: Downhole Location: Houston, TX Reports To: Sales Director ... Analyze drilling and tool performance data to identify optimization opportunities and communicate ...

SM-Energy Company

Sr. Drilling Engineer

Midland, TX · On-site

This role will play a crucial role in the planning, execution, and optimization of drilling (and ... The Drilling Engineer's expertise will contribute to efficient and consistent well delivery ...

Ormat

Sr. Drilling Engineer

Reno, NV · On-site

Provide real-time engineering support during drilling operations, including optimization and structured problem-solving. * Own drilling budgets, cost forecasting, and expenditure control; approve ...

Ormat

Sr. Drilling Engineer

Reno, NV

Provide real-time engineering support during drilling operations, including optimization and structured problem-solving. * Own drilling budgets, cost forecasting, and expenditure control; approve ...

Sable Offshore Corp

Sr. Drilling Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

... optimizing cost and performance. The Senior Drilling Engineer provides technical leadership across ... multidisciplinary teams, drives continuous improvement in drilling practices, and plays a key role ...

Sable Offshore

Sr. Drilling Engineer

Houston, TX

... optimizing cost and performance. The Senior Drilling Engineer provides technical leadership across ... multidisciplinary teams, drives continuous improvement in drilling practices, and plays a key role ...

Sable Offshore

Sr. Drilling Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

... optimizing cost and performance. The Senior Drilling Engineer provides technical leadership across ... multidisciplinary teams, drives continuous improvement in drilling practices, and plays a key role ...

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Drilling Optimization Engineer information

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$40

$59

$81

How much do drilling optimization engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling optimization engineer in the United States is $59.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.27 and $73.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Roles like senior drilling optimization engineers in the oil and gas industry may reach this level with extensive expertise, certifications, and leadership responsibilities.

How much do optimization engineers make?

Optimization engineers in the drilling industry typically earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in data analysis and drilling software can earn higher salaries, often supplemented with bonuses and benefits.

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

AspectDrilling Optimization EngineerDrilling Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering or related field; certifications in drilling practicesBachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering or related field; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentFocus on optimizing drilling processes, data analysis, and efficiency improvementsOversees entire drilling operations, including planning, execution, and safety
Industry UsagePrimarily in companies seeking to improve drilling performance and reduce costsInvolved in all aspects of drilling projects, from design to execution

While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, the Drilling Optimization Engineer specializes in enhancing drilling efficiency through data analysis and process improvements. The Drilling Engineer oversees the entire drilling operation, ensuring safety and project success. The optimization engineer's role is more focused on technical analysis and performance enhancement within the broader drilling process.

How does a Drilling Optimization Engineer typically collaborate with drilling teams and other departments on a project?

A Drilling Optimization Engineer works closely with drilling teams, geologists, and data analysts to ensure efficient and safe drilling operations. They analyze real-time drilling data, recommend adjustments to parameters, and participate in daily meetings to discuss progress and address challenges. Effective communication is essential, as they often serve as a bridge between field operations and engineering teams, ensuring that best practices and innovative solutions are implemented across the project.

How much do drilling engineers get paid?

Drilling optimization engineers typically earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Senior engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, often supplemented with bonuses and benefits.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drilling Optimization Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drilling Optimization Engineer, you need a solid background in petroleum engineering, drilling operations, and data analysis, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with drilling simulation software, real-time data monitoring systems, and industry certifications such as IWCF or Well Control are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and teamwork skills are crucial for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and making informed decisions quickly. These competencies are vital for ensuring drilling efficiency, minimizing operational risks, and achieving cost-effective project outcomes.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Drilling Optimization Engineers in the oil and gas industry can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in reservoir management, and certifications like PMP or PE. High-level roles often involve leadership, complex data analysis, and working in challenging environments, which contribute to higher compensation levels.

What are Drilling Optimization Engineers?

Drilling Optimization Engineers are professionals in the oil and gas industry responsible for improving the efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness of drilling operations. They analyze data from drilling sites, recommend adjustments to drilling parameters, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to optimize drilling performance. Their work includes selecting appropriate drilling technologies, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring best practices are followed throughout the drilling process. The ultimate goal is to minimize non-productive time and maximize well productivity while maintaining safety and environmental standards.
More about Drilling Optimization Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Drilling Optimization Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Drilling Optimization Engineer job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Drilling Optimization Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Drilling Optimization Engineer jobs are:
Drilling Optimization Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drilling Optimization Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $124,067 per year, or $59.6 per hour.
Drilling Engineer (Technical Sales Role)

Drilling Engineer (Technical Sales Role)

Rogii

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Salary:

About ROGII

Get ready to buckle up and meet the powerhouse that's revolutionizing the Oil & Gas industry ROGII!

We're a dynamic team of tech enthusiasts who are not afraid to take risks and bring innovation to the forefront with our comprehensive software solutions. Here at ROGII, were all about optimizing well operations and streamlining workflows for clients all over the world. And weve been smashing that goal out of the park with products that have been adopted by over 350 clients worldwide!

But hey, we're not your average team. We're made up of ROGII Stars creative, out-of-the-box thinkers who are always developing and improving our products with our users in mind, and you can find us all around the world. With each new day, we're pushing the boundaries of what's possible in our industry and having a blast while we do it.

Now, here's your chance to join our team and help us continue being the unparalleled leader in our field. Join the revolution and let us help you lead the digital transformation for the Oil & Gas industry.We're seeking our next ROGII Star who can help us scale towards that goal.

Let's ROGII and lead the digital transformation for the Oil & Gas industry together! Are you ready to embrace the future with us?

About the role

Job Type:Full-time


Job Overview:

We are seeking a highly skilled Drilling Engineer whom specializes in technical sales to join our team full-time. This role is ideal for individuals with a strong background in petroleum or drilling engineering, who are passionate about technology and driving innovative drilling solutions. You will play a key role in presenting technology to clients, supporting field trials, and collaborating on drilling optimization strategies through advanced data analysis. The ideal candidate brings a deep understanding of drilling workflows, directional drilling, and real-time monitoring, and thrives in a collaborative, problem-solving environment.


Responsibilities:

  • Present the technology to customers.
  • Provide technical support for ongoing trials, gather user feedback, and provide solutions to satisfy customer needs.
  • Collaborate with ROGII's product owner, drilling engineers, and developers to prioritize features in the drilling product roadmap.
  • Analyze geoscience and drilling data to design innovative approaches for drilling optimization.


Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Petroleum Engineering, Drilling Engineering, or a related field.
  • 3 years of experience as a drilling engineer with unconventional projects and batch drilling projects.
  • Understanding of drilling optimization workflows including: ROP optimization, Connection, tripping and casing time optimization, Drilling hazards, and BHA analysis.
  • Understanding of directional drilling with motors and RSS, including ways to quantify and optimize it.
  • Familiar with real time drilling monitoring workflows: drilling parameters thresholds, Days vs Depth, and torque and drag plots.
  • Experience with industry standard drilling monitoring and optimization applications is preferred.
  • Must be creative and take initiatives on problems solving proposals.


If you have a keen interest in providing valuable insights for future product development in the geoscience industry and wish to contribute to the advancement of geological software, we invite you to apply. Join our dedicated team of professionals at ROGII, and together, let's revolutionize the world of geoscience insights and software solutions.


Please note a background check will be performed on the successful candidate.