... beads used in drilling fluids, ensuring minimal bead loss, optimal mud properties, and cost ... with mud engineers • Perform routine inspections, maintenance, and troubleshooting of bead ...
... beads used in drilling fluids, ensuring minimal bead loss, optimal mud properties, and cost ... with mud engineers • Perform routine inspections, maintenance, and troubleshooting of bead ...
Driller Assistant
$18.75 - $25.50/hr
... 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 ...
Driller Assistant
$18.75 - $25.50/hr
... 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 ...
Driller Assistant
Mobile, AL · On-site
$18.75 - $25.50/hr
... 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 ...
Driller Assistant
Mobile, AL · On-site
$18.75 - $25.50/hr
... 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 ...
Bead Recovery Technician
Kermit, TX · On-site
$17 - $21.25/hr
... beads used in drilling fluids, ensuring minimal bead loss, optimal mud properties, and cost ... with mud engineers • Perform routine inspections, maintenance, and troubleshooting of bead ...
Bead Recovery Technician
Kermit, TX · On-site
$17 - $21.25/hr
... beads used in drilling fluids, ensuring minimal bead loss, optimal mud properties, and cost ... with mud engineers • Perform routine inspections, maintenance, and troubleshooting of bead ...
Driller Assistant
Dallas, TX · On-site
... 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 ...
Driller Assistant
Dallas, TX · On-site
... 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 ...
Driller Assistant
Mobile, AL · On-site
$18.75 - $25.50/hr
... 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 ...
Driller Assistant
Mobile, AL · On-site
$18.75 - $25.50/hr
... 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 ...
Driller Assistant
Dallas, TX · On-site
... 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 ...
Driller Assistant
Dallas, TX · On-site
... 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 ...
Driller Assistant
Mobile, AL · On-site
$18.75 - $25.50/hr
... 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 ...
Quick apply
Driller Assistant
Mobile, AL · On-site
$18.75 - $25.50/hr
... 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 ...
Driller Assistant
Lafayette, LA · On-site
... 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 ...
Quick apply
Driller Assistant
Lafayette, LA · On-site
... 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 ...
Driller Assistant
Bell City, LA · On-site
... 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 ...
Driller Assistant
Bell City, LA · On-site
... 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 ...
Driller Assistant
Lafayette, LA · On-site
... 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 ...
Driller Assistant
Lafayette, LA · On-site
... 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 ...
Driller Assistant
Dallas, TX · On-site
... 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 ...
Quick apply
Driller Assistant
Dallas, TX · On-site
... 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 ...
... 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 ...
Driller Assistant
Bell City, LA · On-site
... 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 ...
Driller Assistant
Bell City, LA · On-site
... 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 ...
Driller Assistant
Westlake, LA · On-site
... 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 ...
Driller Assistant
Westlake, LA · On-site
... 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 ...
Driller Assistant
Westlake, LA · On-site
... 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 ...
Driller Assistant
Westlake, LA · On-site
... 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 ...
Driller Assistant
Bell City, LA · On-site
... 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 ...
Driller Assistant
Bell City, LA · On-site
... 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 ...
Driller Assistant
Westlake, LA · On-site
... 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 ...
Driller Assistant
Westlake, LA · On-site
... 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 ...
Driller Assistant
Lafayette, LA · On-site
... 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 ...
Driller Assistant
Lafayette, LA · On-site
... 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 ...
Driller Assistant
Bell City, LA · On-site
... 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 ...
Quick apply
Driller Assistant
Bell City, LA · On-site
... 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 ...
Freelance Drilling Fluids Engineer information
See salary details
$23.52 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$14.90 - $25.57
31% of jobs
The median wage is $32.14 / hr.
$25.57 - $36.23
31% of jobs
$36.23 - $46.90
4% of jobs
$56.23 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$46.90 - $57.56
10% of jobs
$57.56 - $68.23
9% of jobs
$68.23 - $78.89
5% of jobs
$78.89 - $89.55
0% of jobs
$89.55 - $100.22
8% of jobs
$100.22 - $110.88
0% of jobs
$110.88 - $121.55
0% of jobs
$121.55 - $132.21
1% of jobs
$14
$47
$132
How much do freelance drilling fluids engineer jobs pay per hour?
As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance drilling fluids engineer in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What engineers make $300,000 a year?
Senior drilling fluids engineers or specialized petroleum engineers in the oil and gas industry can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and working in high-cost regions. These roles often require expertise in fluid properties, environmental safety, and the use of advanced tools and software.
What is the difference between Freelance Drilling Fluids Engineer vs Drilling Fluids Technician?
| Aspect | Freelance Drilling Fluids Engineer | Drilling Fluids Technician |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Engineering degree, certifications in drilling fluids | Technical diploma or relevant certifications |
| Work Environment | On-site at drilling locations, project-based | On-site at drilling sites, operational role |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Independent contractors, consulting firms, oil & gas companies | Oil & gas companies, drilling contractors |
| Search & Comparison Intent | Understanding freelance engineering roles in drilling fluids | Operational role in drilling fluids management |
The Freelance Drilling Fluids Engineer typically holds an engineering degree and provides specialized consulting services on a project basis, focusing on designing and optimizing drilling fluids. In contrast, the Drilling Fluids Technician performs hands-on operational tasks, managing and maintaining drilling fluids during drilling operations. Both roles are essential in the drilling process but differ in responsibilities, credentials, and work setup.
How much does a drilling fluids engineer make?
A drilling fluids engineer typically earns between $70,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Senior engineers or those with specialized skills and certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in offshore or high-demand environments.
What engineers make $500,000?
Senior drilling fluids engineers in the oil and gas industry can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and working in high-cost regions. Achieving this level often requires advanced certifications, expertise in complex drilling operations, and leadership roles overseeing large projects.
Are drilling engineers in demand?
Drilling engineers are in steady demand due to ongoing oil and gas exploration and production activities. Their expertise in well design, safety protocols, and use of drilling software makes them valuable in the energy industry, especially in regions with active drilling operations.
More about Freelance Drilling Fluids Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Drilling Fluids Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Freelance 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 Freelance Drilling Fluids Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Drilling Fluids Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Drilling Fluids Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Drilling Fluids Engineer jobs are:
Job description
Job Description - Bead Recovery Technician
The Bead Recovery Technician is responsible for the operation, monitoring, and
optimization of specialized bead recovery systems during drilling operations. This role
focuses on the efficient separation, recovery, and reuse of ceramic or glass beads used in
drilling fluids, ensuring minimal bead loss, optimal mud properties, and cost-effective
drilling performance. The technician works closely with drilling, mud, and solids control
teams to support safe and efficient operations.
Key Responsibilities
• Operate and monitor bead recovery equipment integrated with drilling mud systems
• Optimize shaker screens, flow rates, and separation settings to maximize bead
recovery
• Identify and respond to bead losses or process inefficiencies in real time
• Recover, clean, and prepare beads for reuse according to operational procedures
• Track recovered volumes and coordinate bead inventory with mud engineers
• Perform routine inspections, maintenance, and troubleshooting of bead recovery
units
• Maintain accurate daily logs, recovery reports, and equipment status records
• Coordinate with drilling personnel to ensure seamless integration into rig operations
• Adhere to all HSE policies, procedures, and site-specific requirements
Required Qualifications
• Experience in drilling fluids, solids control, or bead recovery operations
• Understanding of drilling fluid systems and solids separation principles
• Mechanical aptitude and comfort working with process equipment
• Ability to work 12-hour shifts on land rigs.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
Preferred Qualifications
• Prior bead recovery experience (highly preferred)
• Solids control or mud system background with separator troubleshooting
experience
• Familiarity with shaker screens, classifiers, and recovery systems.
With over 90 years' combined experience, NES Fircroft (NES) is proud to be the world's leading engineering staffing provider spanning the Oil & Gas, Power & Renewables, Chemicals, Construction & Infrastructure, Life Sciences, Mining and Manufacturing sectors worldwide. With more than 80 offices in 45 countries, we are able to provide our clients with the engineering and technical expertise they need, wherever and whenever it is needed. We offer contractors far more than a traditional recruitment service, supporting with everything from securing visas and work permits, to providing market-leading benefits packages and accommodation, ensuring they are safely and compliantly able to support our clients.
The Bead Recovery Technician is responsible for the operation, monitoring, and
optimization of specialized bead recovery systems during drilling operations. This role
focuses on the efficient separation, recovery, and reuse of ceramic or glass beads used in
drilling fluids, ensuring minimal bead loss, optimal mud properties, and cost-effective
drilling performance. The technician works closely with drilling, mud, and solids control
teams to support safe and efficient operations.
Key Responsibilities
• Operate and monitor bead recovery equipment integrated with drilling mud systems
• Optimize shaker screens, flow rates, and separation settings to maximize bead
recovery
• Identify and respond to bead losses or process inefficiencies in real time
• Recover, clean, and prepare beads for reuse according to operational procedures
• Track recovered volumes and coordinate bead inventory with mud engineers
• Perform routine inspections, maintenance, and troubleshooting of bead recovery
units
• Maintain accurate daily logs, recovery reports, and equipment status records
• Coordinate with drilling personnel to ensure seamless integration into rig operations
• Adhere to all HSE policies, procedures, and site-specific requirements
Required Qualifications
• Experience in drilling fluids, solids control, or bead recovery operations
• Understanding of drilling fluid systems and solids separation principles
• Mechanical aptitude and comfort working with process equipment
• Ability to work 12-hour shifts on land rigs.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
Preferred Qualifications
• Prior bead recovery experience (highly preferred)
• Solids control or mud system background with separator troubleshooting
experience
• Familiarity with shaker screens, classifiers, and recovery systems.
With over 90 years' combined experience, NES Fircroft (NES) is proud to be the world's leading engineering staffing provider spanning the Oil & Gas, Power & Renewables, Chemicals, Construction & Infrastructure, Life Sciences, Mining and Manufacturing sectors worldwide. With more than 80 offices in 45 countries, we are able to provide our clients with the engineering and technical expertise they need, wherever and whenever it is needed. We offer contractors far more than a traditional recruitment service, supporting with everything from securing visas and work permits, to providing market-leading benefits packages and accommodation, ensuring they are safely and compliantly able to support our clients.
About Bedrock Detroit
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Real estate
Company size
201 - 500 Employees
Headquarters location
Detroit, MI, US
Year founded
2011