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Mud Engineer Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Northern Dewatering, Inc.

Estimating Manager

Rogers, MN · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Work directly with estimators and engineers to develop solid, buildable bids * Analyze past bids ... stairs, mud, noise, dust, and varying weather conditions * May occasionally be required to lift ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member II

Plymouth, MN · On-site

$24.25 - $33/hr

Drill methods may include auger drilling, mud rotary drilling, air rotary drilling, and diamond bit ... minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations ...

TERRACON

Driller III/Crew Chief

Plymouth, MN · On-site

$24.25 - $33/hr

At Terracon, you'll join one of the nation's leading consulting engineering firms and work ... mud rotary drilling, and diamond coring methods. You will work as part of a dedicated team and ...

TERRACON

Driller III/Crew Chief

Plymouth, MN · On-site

$27.78 - $38.78/hr

At Terracon, you'll join one of the nation's leading consulting engineering firms and work ... mud rotary drilling, and diamond coring methods. You will work as part of a dedicated team and ...

Dakota County

Transportation Maintenance IV

Hastings, MN · On-site

$52K - $81K/yr

... graveling of roads, mud jacking, repairing of frost boils, flood damage repair, continuous ... engineering work done on a County project. 8. Safely operate heavy equipment and related ...

All JobsMud Engineer JobsMud Engineer Jobs in Minnesota

Mud Engineer information

See Minnesota salary details

$81.8K

$113.4K

$119.5K

How much do mud engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for mud engineer in Minnesota is $113,403.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,500.00 and $119,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mud engineer?

Mud engineers, also known as drilling fluid engineers, are specialized professionals in the oil and gas industry responsible for designing, testing, and managing the properties of drilling fluids (commonly called 'mud'). These fluids are crucial for lubricating drill bits, controlling subsurface pressures, stabilizing wellbores, and carrying drill cuttings to the surface during drilling operations. Mud engineers monitor and adjust the chemical and physical characteristics of drilling mud to ensure safe and efficient drilling, minimize environmental impact, and reduce operational risks.

What does a mud engineer do?

As a mud engineer, also known as a drilling fluids engineer or mud man, you manage the drilling fluid used in the digging of oil wells. This involves making adjustments to the liquid being used, supervising the equipment on a rig, and helping test for oil and gas. This position offers a significant amount of control over the specifications of a drilling plan, in part because the fluid mixture must be customized to create the most effective drilling path through the unique terrain of the area. Since your presence is required during the drilling process, mud engineers spend almost all of their time on-site.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mud engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mud Engineer, you need a solid background in chemistry, geology, and drilling fluid technology, often supported by a degree in engineering or earth sciences. Familiarity with drilling fluid software, mud logging systems, and relevant certifications like Well Control or H2S safety are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These skills are essential for ensuring safe, efficient drilling operations and maintaining wellbore stability under challenging conditions.

What are common challenges faced by mud engineers on drilling sites, and how can they be addressed?

Mud Engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining the correct mud properties under varying geological conditions, preventing equipment clogging, and responding quickly to unexpected wellbore issues like lost circulation. Addressing these challenges requires strong analytical skills, effective communication with drilling crews, and the ability to adjust mud formulations on short notice. Staying up-to-date with new drilling fluids technology and working closely with geologists and drilling supervisors can help Mud Engineers implement effective solutions and ensure smooth drilling operations.

What is the difference between Mud Engineer vs Drilling Fluids Engineer?

AspectMud EngineerDrilling Fluids Engineer
CredentialsRelevant certifications, technical degrees in petroleum or mechanical engineeringSimilar certifications, specialized training in drilling fluids
Work EnvironmentOffshore/onshore drilling sites, oil and gas industryOffshore/onshore drilling operations, oil and gas industry
Employer & IndustryOil & gas companies, drilling contractorsOil & gas companies, drilling service companies
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Both Mud Engineers and Drilling Fluids Engineers work in the oil and gas industry, focusing on managing drilling fluids to ensure safe and efficient drilling operations. While their roles are similar, the term 'Mud Engineer' is more commonly used in the field, and both titles often overlap in responsibilities and qualifications.

How much do mud engineers get paid?

Mud engineers, also known as drilling fluid engineers, typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the drilling operation. Salaries often increase with certifications, specialized skills, and offshore or remote work environments.
More about Mud Engineer jobs

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The most popular types of Mud Engineer jobs in Minnesota are:

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For Mud Engineer jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Mud Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mud Engineer job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,403 per year, or $54.5 per hour.

Large Telecom Drill Bores Foreman

Dycom Industries, Inc.

Maple Grove, MN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Dycom Industries rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Maple Grove, MN
Workplace Type: Field
Employment Type: Hourly
Discover a more connected career
At TelCom Construction, LLC, The HDD Foreman-Large Drill Operations is responsible for leading a horizontal directional drilling crew operating large-diameter drills and advanced tooling systems. This role oversees daily field operations, ensures safe and efficient bore execution, manages crew performance, and coordinates with leadership on project progress. The Foreman must be highly familiar with HDD tooling, including mud motors, grid bores, gyro bores, and steering technologies, and must be capable of making real-time decisions that affect bore success.
Connecting you to great benefits
  • Weekly Paychecks
  • Paid Time Off, Parental Leave, and Holidays
  • Insurance (including medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, disability, life insurance)
  • 401(k) w/ Company Match
  • Stock Purchase Plan
  • Education Reimbursement
  • Legal Insurance
  • Discounts on gym memberships, pet insurance, and much more!

What you'll do
Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead daily drill operations for large-diameter bores, ensuring safety, efficiency, and quality.
  • Operate or supervise operation of large HDD rigs including setup, alignment, and bore path execution
  • Oversee tooling selection including mud motors, grid bores, gyro bores, reamers, and cutting heads
  • Coordinate with locator to ensure accurate steering, depth control, and bore path adherence
  • Manage drilling fluid requirements including mud mix, viscosity, additives, and pump performance
  • Supervise reclaim/mud system operations and ensure proper fluid recycling
  • Lead site setup and teardown including rig staging, safety controls, and environmental compliance
  • Train and direct crew members including laborers, operators, and support technicians
  • Communicate with operations leadership regarding progress, issues, and daily reporting
  • Ensure safety compliance including PPE, trench safety, equipment lockout/tagout, and hazard mitigation
  • Perform quality checks on bore path, pullback, reaming, and final product installation
  • Troubleshoot equipment issues including pumps, motors, drill heads, and steering systems.
  • Lead new site Job Safety Analysis
  • Read engineering drawings, prints and technical documents for OSP facilities
  • Draw prints or sketches and provide field notes describing OSP facilities
  • Safely operate and control all equipment necessary to complete tasks assigned to crew
  • Determine bore path and locate utilities
  • Utilize "Mud" mixing systems
  • Ensure accurate drilling and utility protection
  • Schedule, maintain equipment & tooling, and perform site set-up and clean-up
  • Resolve property owner complaints and document work
  • Perform work in all weather conditions
  • Other duties as assigned

What you'll need
Required Skills & Qualifications:
  • 3-5+ years HDD experience, including large-diameter drills (5+ years preferred)
  • Strong understanding of mud motors, grid bores, gyro bores, steering tools, and advanced HDD tooling
  • Ability to read and interpret bore plans, utility maps, and job specifications
  • Strong leadership and communication skills
  • Ability to operate or supervise operation of large HDD rigs
  • Mechanical aptitude with pumps, hydraulics, mud systems, and reclaim equipment
  • Valid driver's license; CDL preferred
  • Ability to work long hours and travel regionally as needed

Preferred Experience:
  • Experience running bores over 12-24 inches
  • Experience with gyro steering systems for long or complex bores
  • Experience with rock drilling using mud motors and specialized tooling
  • Prior foreman or lead operator experience
  • OSHA, First Aid, CPR certifications
  • To be 18 years of age or older
  • Authorization to work in the United States for this company
  • High School Diploma, GED equivalent, or relevant work experience
  • Valid state driver's license (cannot be Provisional), including an acceptable driving record
  • Valid Class A Commercial driver's license with tanker endorsement or willingness to obtain it
  • At least 3 years of experience operating drill bores equipment within the telecommunications or construction industry

Physical abilities & exposures
  • Routinely: work with arms above shoulder level, in confined space and remote locations, operate vehicle and heavy machinery, squeeze, fine hand motion, bend, stoop, stand, walk, climb stairs and lift greater than 55 pounds
  • Occasionally: use ladder, keyboard and mouse

Why grow your career with us
Your career here is more than just a job - it's your pathway to opportunity. Our hands-on training, supportive environment, and responsive leadership connect you to work with purpose. Our commitment to you extends beyond professional development to a safety-first culture that ensures you can do what you do best, with peace of mind.
Building stronger solutions together
Our company is an equal-opportunity employer - we are committed to providing a work environment where everyone can thrive, grow, and feel connected.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
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