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Drilling Optimization Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Data Engineer

Reno, NV · On-site +1

$114K - $137K/yr

Position Summary The Data Engineer is part of the Resource Projects team within the Resource ... Enable reservoir management, geothermal field development, and drilling optimization by delivering ...

Data Engineer

Reno, NV · On-site +1

$114K - $137K/yr

The Data Engineer will serve as the central architect and steward of data systems supporting the ... Enable reservoir management, geothermal field development, and drilling optimization by delivering ...

Data Engineer

Reno, NV · On-site

$114K - $137K/yr

... and drilling optimization by delivering high-quality data platforms, pipelines, and analytics ... Required : • Bachelor's degree in Data Engineering, Computer Science, Engineering, or related ...

Data Engineer

Reno, NV · On-site

$114K - $137K/yr

Position Summary The Data Engineer is part of the Resource Projects team within the Resource ... Enable reservoir management, geothermal field development, and drilling optimization by delivering ...

Automation technologies (auto-drillers, remote operations, AI-assisted drilling optimization ... Work closely with drilling engineers, field operations, finance, legal and other stakeholders to ...

... drilling optimization Required Qualifications: * Associate or bachelor's degree in Geoscience or related field * Minimum of 2 years of experience in engineering or geology related analytics

Directional Drilling Technician

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$23.50 - $29/hr

Adjust the Devidrill for optimal performance * Move Devidrill and survey tools to Drill rig ... We have leading geoscience and engineering capabilities; world-class IP, product development ...

Directional Drilling Technician

Elko, NV · On-site

$23.50 - $29/hr

Adjust the Devidrill for optimal performance * Move Devidrill and survey tools to Drill rig ... We have leading geoscience and engineering capabilities; world-class IP, product development ...

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Showing results 1-20

Drilling Optimization Engineer information

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$40

$59

$81

How much do drilling optimization engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 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 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.

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 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:
What states have the most Drilling Optimization Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Drilling Optimization Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Drilling Optimization Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Drilling Optimization Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Drilling Optimization Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 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.
Business Development Representative PDC

Business Development Representative PDC

Patterson-UTI

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted yesterday


Patterson-UTI rating

4.4

Company rating: 4.4 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

71st of 74 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

Job Description
Job Title: Business Development Representative - Drilling Solutions
Location: Houston, TX
Business Development Lead is responsible for direct involvement with multiple customers at specified levels within the designated customer organization. This position requires strong analytical skills in managing drilling day-work contracts and invoicing criteria to include accounts receivables. This position will be expected to create and manage networking opportunities to maximize customer relationships and gain market intelligence. The candidate should have experience within the onshore drilling industry, strong communication and a high level of motivation/work ethic.
This position is required to live in the Houston area. This position reports to the Vice President Marketing, Houston.
Detailed Description:
  • Comprehensive understanding of PTEN emerging technologies and services to include but not limited to:
    • Hybrid Solutions & ESG Initiatives
    • PTEN+ Performance Center
    • Drilling Optimization / Performance Drilling Platform
    • Apex Rig Designs
    • Cortex Platforms and functional applications
  • Use professional sales communication, acumen, and analytical skillsets in daily interactions with customer representatives and organizations.
  • Plan, initiate and organize regular business meetings with current and potential customers across various functions of the target organization.
  • Collaborates with cross functional teams within PTEN organization to create value propositions and control narrative across organization and customer accounts.
  • Develop and utilize market intelligence for competitive benchmarking and forecasting.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in land drilling operational protocol and suite of rig automation technology.
  • Manage and leverage internal AR tools and resources to ensure accurate and expedient receivables.
  • Manage complex sales cycles to align with customer expectations.
  • Effectively utilize negotiating strategies to maximize contract terms and conditions.
  • Successfully manage difficult situations and proactively engage in conflict resolution strategies.
  • Network with industry peers to maximize market intelligence.
  • Provide alignment to Operations, HSE, HR, Drilling Optimization & Automation Teams to ensure Operational Excellence across multiple interfaces with the customer.
  • Accountable for administering and executing MSA's/Contracts to gain share across strategic customer mix.
  • Represent the Company and our values with integrity while maintaining the highest ethical and legal standards with all customer interactions.

Demonstrated ability in the following leadership competencies:
  • Builds and Maintains Effective Relationships
  • Develops Self and Others
  • Builds Effective Teams
  • Courageous Leadership
  • Managing Vision and Purpose
  • Business Acumen
  • Drive for Results
  • Customer Focus
  • Decision Quality
  • Time Management

Job Requirements:
  • Strong communication and networking skills and proven track record in successfully influencing a wide variety of people and situations.
  • Strong organizational skills to ensure disciplined reporting and timely customer follow-up
  • Builds and sustains influential relationships with internal and external stakeholders, fostering collaboration, trust, and alignment around strategic objectives.
  • Leverages strong technical and commercial acumen to translate complex drilling and energy solutions into clear business value for clients.
  • Utilizes advanced business systems and analytics (MS Office Suite, CRM, ERP, and commercial platforms) to track performance, generate insights, and support data-driven decisions.
  • Champions a profit-focused, customer-centric approach balancing revenue growth, margin improvement, and client satisfaction.
  • Represents the organization externally through thought leadership, including authoring technical papers, participating in industry forums, and presenting at global conferences.
  • Ability to work variable work hours include regular after-hours, weekend, and holiday commitments as well as regular travel within and outside assigned region.
  • Ability to work with an emphasis and prioritization to maximize contract closure and maintain a professional attitude when interacting with all Company and customer representatives.
  • Must be able to work closely with others and manage customer interaction in a professional manner.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelors degree in engineering, business, marketing, sales management, or related field
  • 3+ years Oil & Gas experience
  • Valid state-issued driver's license and be eligible to drive Company vehicle including ability to meet requirements of Company's Vehicle Use Agreement and Driving Policy

Preferred Qualifications:
  • 3+ years drilling industry experience

Additional Details:
This position requires the person to work in both office and field locations and travel to a wide variety of customer locations. Work is primarily in a climate controlled / office environment with minimal safety / health hazard potential. The employee is regularly required to sit, stand, or walk with occasional lifting (overhead, waist level) from floor, bending and frequent near vision use for reading and use of computer, telephone, and other office equipment.
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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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