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Drilling Optimization Engineer Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Patterson-UTI

Engineer Sr Optimization PDC

Midland, TX · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

Senior Drilling Optimization Engineer The Senior Drilling Optimization Engineer will drive performance analytics and optimization initiatives for Patterson-UTI Drilling Company, LLC by analyzing ...

Patterson-UTI

Engineer Sr Optimization PDC

Midland, TX

$107K - $147K/yr

Senior Drilling Optimization Engineer The Senior Drilling Optimization Engineer will drive performance analytics and optimization initiatives for Patterson-UTI Drilling Company, LLC by analyzing ...

SLB

Digital Drilling Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

The Digital Drilling Engineer (DDE) is responsible for the implementation, office adoption and ... Participates in technical discussions for customer workflow optimization and requirements.

Cnpc Usa Corporation

Sr. Well Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$180 - $240/hr

Provide operational guidance across the full well lifecycle: spud‑to‑TD drilling optimization ... Mentor and train Chinese D&C engineers and field supervisors through workshops, written procedures ...

Cnpc USA

Sr. Well Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$150 - $230/hr

Provide operational guidance across the full well lifecycle: spud‑to‑TD drilling optimization ... Mentor and train Chinese D&C engineers and field supervisors through workshops, written procedures ...

New

Cnpc Usa Corporation

Sr. Well Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$101K - $139K/yr

Provide operational guidance across the full well lifecycle: spud-to-TD drilling optimization ... Mentor and train Chinese D&C engineers and field supervisors through workshops, written procedures ...

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 ...

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 ...

Patterson-UTI

Field Sales Engineer

Odessa, TX · On-site

Analyze drilling data and provide performance studies to support drilling optimization efforts in ... Use engineering principles to recommend product modifications or obsolescence based on application ...

Patterson-UTI

Field Sales Engineer

Odessa, TX · On-site

Analyze drilling data and provide performance studies to support drilling optimization efforts in ... Use engineering principles to recommend product modifications or obsolescence based on application ...

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All JobsDrilling Optimization Engineer JobsDrilling Optimization Engineer Jobs in Texas

Drilling Optimization Engineer information

See Texas salary details

$37

$55

$76

How much do drilling optimization engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling optimization engineer in Texas is $55.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.29 and $68.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drilling optimization engineer?

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.

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.

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 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.

What are popular job titles related to Drilling Optimization Engineer jobs in Texas?

For Drilling Optimization Engineer jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Drilling Optimization Engineer jobs in Texas look for?

The top searched job categories for Drilling Optimization Engineer jobs in Texas are:

What cities in Texas are hiring for Drilling Optimization Engineer jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Drilling Optimization Engineer job openings:

Drilling Optimization Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drilling Optimization Engineer job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $115,587 per year, or $55.6 per hour.

Engineer Sr Optimization PDC

Patterson-UTI

Midland, TX • On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Patterson-UTI rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

83rd of 87 rated oil and gas companies

Job description


Job Title: Senior Drilling Optimization Engineer
The Senior Drilling Optimization Engineer will drive performance analytics and optimization initiatives for Patterson-UTI Drilling Company, LLC by analyzing drilling data to support field operations, engaging stakeholders, and optimize on-shore drilling rigs, with responsibility for supporting key customer accounts. They will focus on improving key performance indicators (KPIs), developing reports and visualizations, supporting operations teams, driving operational excellence, and maintaining a safe work environment. Acting as a subject matter expert (SME), they will provide technical guidance, mentor junior engineers, and influence operational improvements across rigs and regions. The engineer will work closely with local operations, support teams, and third-party personnel, and act as a liaison with Technology and Marketing Groups. They will also spend time in the field understanding conditions firsthand and building strong relationships with personnel and customers.
This role reports directly to the Drilling Optimization Manager.
Detailed Description:
  • Interface with internal and external stakeholders to support day-to-day performance and operational initiatives, including work with key customer accounts.
  • Track, analyze, and manage KPI's to identify performance trends and areas for improvement.
  • Develop and recommend strategies to improve KPI's across rigs and customer operations.
  • Assess rig and operational processes to identify inefficiencies, propose improvements, and support execution of performance plans.
  • Create roadmaps and heatmaps for operational phases to guide planning and execution.
  • Track action items to completion as designated by management or customers, providing updates and technical input as needed.
  • Provide technical support to operations, sales, and related groups to ensure customer expectations are met.
  • Provide training, coaching, and pre-project planning support to enhance performance.
  • Perform root cause analysis for incidents, equipment failures, and operational issues, and support integration of improvements across the organization.
  • Coordinate with customers at various organizational levels to align goals and respond to data and reporting requests.
  • Coach and train personnel on the Patterson PTEN+ portal and other performance tools.
  • Analyze large datasets and develop visualizations and reports in Tableau, Spotfire, Power BI, etc., to communicate critical information.
  • Contribute to developing a company-wide repository of best practices to support operational consistency and standardization.
  • Support improvements to rig/equipment monitoring, state detection, and notification systems.
  • Support the design and development of visualizations, control applications, customer web portals, and other initiatives.
  • Receive and troubleshoot calls related to rig performance, providing technical support to Superintendents.
  • Participate in handover meetings with Operations and support groups, ensuring continuity and clarity.
  • Provide mentorship to junior engineers and interns.
  • Collaborate with Business Analytics Managers to share cost information on rig labor and M&S, supporting regional cost optimization efforts.

Job Requirements:
  • Build engaging relationships at all levels of the organization as well as with customers
  • Analyze complex processes and identify opportunities for improvement
  • Able to think strategically and translate concepts into action plans and track results
  • Simplify and explain complex topics for the purposes of coaching and training
  • Ability to manage challenging situations, make difficult decisions, deliver uncomfortable messages, provide feedback, and present data effectively to customers with professionalism.
  • Able to work both independently and as part of a team, managing multiple tasks and projects simultaneously to meet challenging deadlines
  • Proficient in utilizing advanced logical and mathematic calculations
  • Excellent verbal and written English Language communication with employees, customers and third parties at all levels
  • Ability to communicate respectfully and effectively, demonstrating professionalism and tact
  • Strong computer skills, including MS Office Suite and other business systems such as Oracle Outsourcing, Electronic Drilling Recorder, and internal Management System, as well as use of smart phones, laptops, and tablets. Able to learn data analytics tools like Qlik, Tableau, PowerBI and perform data analytics
  • Physical ability to:
    • Lift and carry up to 50 pounds and occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, twist, or crawl during field visits.
    • Listen for unusual noises that may indicate equipment or machinery issues.
    • Stay alert and focused, including during occasional extended work periods.
    • Maintain spatial awareness to safely navigate environments with moving objects, including overhead machinery, and wear required PPE.
    • Travel regularly to worksites, which may include extended travel to remote locations and/or overnight stays.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Applied Science, or related field.
  • 2 years of experience in working with large data sets and business analytics
  • 3 years of experience working in the Drilling Industry supporting drilling rig operations.
  • Eligible to drive Company or personal vehicle for Company purposes including ability to meet requirements of Company's Vehicle Use Agreement and Driving Policy

Preferred Qualifications
  • Mechanical or Electrical Engineering
  • Hands-on programming experience in Python or C#/Java and different databases
  • Experience working in the oilfield service industry with working knowledge of multiple basins within US Land Shale Plays

About Us
The New Standard for Drilling Performance
Drill safer, smarter and faster with Patterson-UTI Drilling's comprehensive fleet of pad-capable rigs featuring advanced walking systems to enhance your operations so you can reach your apex.
Patterson-UTI is committed to a workplace free from discrimination and harassment, offering equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of personal characteristics protected by law. Employees are encouraged to report any concerns through multiple channels.

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