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Measurement While Drilling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As an MWD Operations Specialist, you will be responsible for the efficient setup, operation, and monitoring of Measurement While Drilling systems to support directional drilling operations. You will ...

... drilling, surveying, measurement while drilling or directional planning is a plus. * Desire computer skills experience in MS Office. * Proficiency in Landmark Graphics COMPASS™ or equivalent ...

Area Blaster

Kershaw, SC · On-site

$63K - $95K/yr

Leverage Measure While Drilling (MWD) data - including penetration rate, rock hardness, and flush pressure - to characterize rock mass variability and refine charge designs prior to loading.

Achieve Proficiency in performing multiple combinations of Gyro , Measurement While Drilling (MWD), Gyro While Drilling (GWD) in accordance with local area requirements as assigned by the PSD Manager ...

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Measurement While Drilling information

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How much do measurement while drilling jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for measurement while drilling in the United States is $22.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a measurement while drilling?

A Measurement While Drilling (MWD) job involves using downhole tools to collect real-time data while drilling a well. MWD specialists monitor parameters such as wellbore trajectory, toolface orientation, and formation properties to ensure accurate well placement. They work closely with drillers and directional drillers to optimize performance and maximize efficiency. This role requires technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work in challenging drilling environments.

What does a measurement while drilling do?

A typical day for an MWD professional involves operating specialized equipment at the drilling site, collecting and interpreting real-time data about the direction, depth, and orientation of the wellbore. You'll work closely with other drilling team members to provide critical guidance that helps optimize the drilling process and ensure safe, efficient operations. The role often includes troubleshooting equipment, calibrating sensors, and maintaining accurate records of measurements. Shifts may be long, and the work environment can be challenging—typically remote oilfield locations—but the position offers strong opportunities for advancement within drilling operations or field engineering roles.

What skills and qualifications are needed for measurement while drilling?

To thrive as a Measurement While Drilling (MWD) professional, you need a strong grasp of downhole drilling operations, data acquisition, electronics, and a relevant technical background—often supported by certifications in drilling or petroleum technology. Familiarity with MWD tools, telemetry systems, and real-time data monitoring software is crucial for success on the job. Exceptional attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to communicate clearly with drilling teams help you stand out in this position. These skills are essential for ensuring accurate wellbore measurements, optimizing drilling performance, and maintaining safety in challenging field environments.

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What cities are hiring for Measurement While Drilling jobs?

Cities with the most Measurement While Drilling job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Measurement While Drilling jobs?

The most popular types of Measurement While Drilling jobs are:

What states have the most Measurement While Drilling jobs?

States with the most job openings for Measurement While Drilling jobs include:

Infographic showing various Measurement While Drilling job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,781 per year, or $22 per hour.

MWD Operations Specialist

Katy, TX

$35 - $45/hr

Contractor

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Job Description Step into a high-impact role with a leading drilling services provider where your expertise in MWD and real-time data will directly influence drilling performance and operational success. This is a contract position offering consistent Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM hours, working with advanced MWD technology and EM telemetry systems in a fast-paced, technically focused environment. About the Role: As an MWD Operations Specialist, you will be responsible for the efficient setup, operation, and monitoring of Measurement While Drilling systems to support directional drilling operations.

You will interpret real-time drilling data, optimize tool performance, and provide critical input to ensure wells are drilled safely, accurately, and efficiently. Working closely with directional drillers and field teams, you will help drive decision-making and maintain high standards of data quality and system reliability. Key Responsibilities: Configure, operate, and monitor MWD systems, including XEM/xBolt tools, to support ongoing drilling operations.

Interpret real-time drilling and formation data to support directional drilling decisions and wellbore placement. Coordinate with directional drillers and drilling supervisors to adjust drilling parameters based on real-time data and downhole tool performance. Troubleshoot and resolve MWD and EM telemetry issues, ensuring continuous, reliable data transmission to surface.

Validate, quality-check, and document MWD data, ensuring accuracy and completeness for reporting and post-well analysis. Maintain and update operational records, tool run histories, and job logs in accordance with company procedures. Support pre-job planning, tool selection, and configuration to meet well program requirements and client specifications.

Adhere to company and client safety standards, operational procedures, and best practices during all phases of MWD operations. Key Requirements: Proven experience operating Measurement While Drilling systems in a drilling environment. Hands-on experience with XEM/xBolt MWD tools and EM telemetry systems.

Strong capability in real-time drilling data interpretation and application to directional drilling operations. Solid understanding of directional drilling concepts, wellbore placement, and drilling dynamics. Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot MWD tools and telemetry issues under time-sensitive conditions.

Proficiency with MWD surface software and data acquisition systems. Strong communication skills for effective collaboration with field personnel, directional drillers, and office-based teams. Ability to work standard Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM schedule with flexibility for operational demands as required.

Desirable Skills: Experience with multiple MWD tool platforms and telemetry methods beyond EM. Familiarity with drilling optimization, vibration mitigation, and performance drilling practices. Exposure to data integration with drilling reporting systems and real-time operations centers.

Experience supporting both onshore and offshore drilling operations. Knowledge of basic well planning and survey management. Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent required; technical diploma or associate degree in a related field (e.g., Petroleum Technology, Electronics, Instrumentation) preferred

Formal training or certification in MWD operations from a recognized provider or employer training program. Safety certifications relevant to drilling operations (e.g., H2S, Well Control awareness) preferred. Valid driver's license and ability to meet company and client site access requirements

If you are an experienced MWD professional with strong XEM/xBolt and EM telemetry skills and want to contribute directly to high-performing drilling operations, you are encouraged to apply.