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Operations Drilling Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

* Implement safe, environmental sound and efficient well operations. * Ensure that required approvals ... Drilling Supervisor in the coordination of offshore requirements and day-to-day events.

Familiar with drilling and completions operations * Proficient in Excel with a strong understand of ... engineering across energy and the built environment, helping to unlock solutions to some of the ...

Familiar with drilling and completions operations * Proficient in Excel with a strong understand of ... engineering across energy and the built environment, helping to unlock solutions to some of the ...

*MPD Operations Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$59K - $79K/yr

The Level 2 Office-Based MPD Engineer is responsible for supporting Managed Pressure Drilling operations from the office. This role involves performing engineering calculations, reviewing data from ...

*MPD Operations Engineer

Houston, TX

$66K - $89K/yr

The Level 2 Office-Based MPD Engineer is responsible for supporting Managed Pressure Drilling operations from the office. This role involves performing engineering calculations, reviewing data from ...

... with Engineering management, plant management, team members and stakeholders. * Estimate the ... Provide technical support to operations (debottlenecking and optimization, maintenance projects ...

Position Summary The Drilling & Completions Engineer is responsible for the planning and execution of safe and cost-efficient D&C and workover operations. This individual will collaborate with safety ...

Sr. Well / Drilling Engineer

Mont Belvieu, TX · On-site

$94K - $129K/yr

... with Engineering management, plant management, team members and stakeholders. * Estimate the ... Provide technical support to operations (debottlenecking and optimization, maintenance projects ...

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Operations Drilling Engineer information

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$36K

$85K

$135K

How much do operations drilling engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for operations drilling engineer in the United States is $85,029.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,500.00 and $94,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying oil field job?

The highest paying oil field jobs are typically senior drilling engineers, drilling managers, and reservoir engineers, with salaries often exceeding $150,000 annually. These roles require extensive experience, specialized skills, and often involve working in remote or challenging environments, sometimes with additional bonuses or hazard pay.

What are Operations Drilling Engineers?

Operations Drilling Engineers are professionals responsible for planning, overseeing, and optimizing the drilling of wells in the oil and gas industry. They design drilling programs, select appropriate equipment, and ensure that drilling operations are conducted safely, efficiently, and in compliance with regulations. Their work involves close collaboration with geologists, rig crews, and other engineers to minimize costs and environmental impact while maximizing productivity. They also troubleshoot issues that arise during drilling and play a critical role in ensuring well integrity and safety.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Operations Drilling Engineers in the oil and gas industry can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles. High compensation is often associated with senior positions, offshore work, or companies operating in high-demand regions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Operations Drilling Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operations Drilling Engineer, you need a strong background in petroleum engineering, drilling practices, and geology, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with drilling engineering software (such as Landmark or WellView), well control certifications, and knowledge of industry safety standards are essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are critical soft skills for coordinating with multidisciplinary teams and handling unexpected drilling challenges. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and cost-effective drilling operations in complex environments.

What is the difference between Operations Drilling Engineer vs Drilling Supervisor?

AspectOperations Drilling EngineerDrilling Supervisor
ResponsibilitiesDesigns and plans drilling operations, ensures safety and efficiency, collaborates with teamsOversees daily drilling activities, manages personnel, enforces safety protocols
CredentialsBachelor's in Petroleum Engineering or related field, relevant certificationsSimilar credentials, often with additional supervisory training
Work EnvironmentOffice-based with site visits, technical planningOn-site management of drilling operations
Industry UsageCommonly employed in oil and gas companies for technical planningTypically found in operational management roles on drilling sites

While both roles are integral to drilling operations, the Operations Drilling Engineer focuses on technical planning and design, whereas the Drilling Supervisor manages daily site activities and personnel. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the drilling industry.

How much do oil drilling engineers make?

Oil drilling engineers typically earn a median annual salary between $80,000 and $150,000, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Senior engineers or those with specialized skills and certifications can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $200,000 annually. Compensation may also include bonuses, overtime, and benefits due to the demanding nature of the work environment.

Are drilling engineers in demand?

Drilling engineers are in steady demand in the oil and gas industry due to the ongoing need for exploration and production activities. They require technical skills, knowledge of drilling equipment, and safety certifications, and employment opportunities are often influenced by market conditions and energy prices.

What are some common challenges an Operations Drilling Engineer faces when coordinating between on-site personnel and office teams?

Operations Drilling Engineers often serve as the crucial link between field crews and office-based teams, which can present challenges such as ensuring clear communication, aligning operational goals, and managing real-time problem-solving. Balancing immediate drilling needs with broader company objectives requires strong organizational and interpersonal skills. Additionally, adapting to rapidly changing drilling conditions and unexpected issues, while keeping all stakeholders informed and aligned, is a key part of the role. This environment helps develop resilience and fosters effective teamwork, making it a dynamic and rewarding position for those who thrive on collaboration.
More about Operations Drilling Engineer jobs

Offshore Drilling Engineer

Intec Sea

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

  1. Implement safe, environmental sound and efficient well operations.
  2. Ensure that required approvals are obtained prior to initiation of any activity and that the activity is then conducted in accordance with the approvals received.
  3. Develop realistic Cost Estimates which reflect an appropriate level of contingency.
  4. Prepare Risk Analysis and mitigation plans are as appropriate.
  5. Recommend implementation of new techniques and practices.
  6. Follow up on significant problems & make recommendations for improvement.
  7. Document Lessons Learned in Maxwell databases and utilize in future plans.
  8. Provide technical assistance & operational analysis to offshore personnel.
  9. Track and analyze operational performance.

10. Assist the Cost Analyst in tracking costs, actively monitor costs performance during the well operations including completion.
11. Monitor daily well view input to ensure data integrity, Provide daily and weekly project status reports and information for management.
12. Provide guidance and instructions to the selected service companies.
13. Order equipment within company policy.
14. Maintain good communications and awareness amongst well operations related sections by holding onshore pre-spud or pre-work over meetings and assist the Drilling Supervisor in the coordination of offshore requirements and day-to-day events.