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Mud Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member III

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$22.75 - $31/hr

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

AECOM

SUE Field Supervisor

Arlington, VA · On-site

We offer a comprehensive suite of Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE), private utility locating ... Frequently across outdoor construction environments with a variety of uneven terrains such as mud ...

AECOM

SUE Field Supervisor

Arlington, VA · On-site

We offer a comprehensive suite of Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE), private utility locating ... Frequently across outdoor construction environments with a variety of uneven terrains such as mud ...

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All JobsMud Engineer JobsMud Engineer Jobs in Washington

Mud Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$94.6K

$131.1K

$138.2K

How much do mud engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for mud engineer in Washington is $131,140.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $137,000.00 and $137,600.00 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.
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Mud Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mud Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $131,140 per year, or $63 per hour.

Driller/Exploration Team Member III

TERRACON

Woodbridge, VA • On-site

$22.75 - $31/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Terracon rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 120 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

51st of 72 rated business consultants

Job description


Exploration Team Members (ETMs) will perform subsurface exploration duties using conventional drilling or in-situ testing techniques. Drill methods may include; auger drilling, mud rotary drilling, air rotary drilling, and diamond bit coring techniques. In-situ testing techniques may include cone penetration testing (CPT), pressure meter testing, and rock dilatometer testing. Work may also include the installation of instrumentation such as piezometers, monitor wells and inclinometers. Work as part of a multiple person team on projects. ETMs will perform daily tasks including: survey and locate drilling points; conduct site reconnaissance; load/unload tooling, materials and samples; classify soil and rock samples; perform routine maintenance and basic repairs on drilling equipment, prepare internal (daily field forms) and external (DOT Logs) paperwork. 

Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm comprised of more than 8,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations nationwide. Since 1965, Terracon has evolved into a successful multi-discipline firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon's growth is due to our talented employee-owners exceeding expectations in client service and growing their careers with new and exciting opportunities in the marketplace. Terracon was recognized as the #1 firm in Asbestos and Lead Abatement.

Terracon's vision of "Together, we are best at people" is demonstrated through our excellent compensation and benefits package. Based on eligibility, role and job status, we offer many programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off and holidays, education reimbursement, and various bonus programs.
Innovation and hands-on practice come together in our geotechnical consulting services. We provide geotechnical services nationwide for a wide range of projects, drawing on six decades of historical geotechnical data, a fleet of more than 200 drill rigs, 140 accredited laboratories, and thousands of employees to quickly organize or capture site data wherever projects are located.From AI-supported solutions and predictive technologies to geophysics and traditional exploration, we deliver precision, value-added subsurface information and engineering and scientific expertise to solving our clients' challenges and achieve their goals for project sustainability, quality, and efficiency.

Requirements:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum 3-years' experience.
  • Proficient in geotechnical and/or environmental drilling methods.
  • Valid driver's license with acceptable violation history.
  • Ability to obtain a DOT Medical Card within first 30 days of employment.
  • Many states require specific driller/well installation licensure. When applicable, such licensure is required.

Preferred Certification and Skills:

  • Experience in
    • In-Situ test methods
    • Instrumentation Installation
    • Barge Drilling
    • Angle Drilling
    • Environmental Drilling
  • Regional Drilling Licensure
  • Valid Class A or B commercial driver's license.

The employee will be expected to perform the following tasks:

  • Demonstrate an ability to problem solve and implement solutions on routine to moderately complex problems with guidance from management or other senior level ETMs. Operate a geotechnical drill rig to advance boreholes to all depths required in their region.
  • Oversee a 2 or 3 man drill crew in all tasks associated with drilling operations.
  • Be proficient in multiple drilling methods common to their region.
  • Install instrumentation and monitoring wells.
  • Perform routine repairs and maintenance.
  • Perform surveying, site reconnaissance, and utility clearance tasks.
  • Drive all forms of drilling equipment to and from project locations.
  • Inspect and complete routine maintenance of equipment.
  • Assist in project preparation and pre-task planning.
  • Follow safety rules, guidelines and standards for all projects. Participate in pre-task planning. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
  • Be responsible for maintaining quality standards on all projects.

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