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Project Drilling Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Drilling Engineer will support Hercules Offshore Drilling & Completion (D&C) team. This ... project Directional Surveying Policy Manage the interfaces between engineering, operations ...

Collaborate with cross-functional teams including project managers, geologists, reservoir engineers, drilling personnel, procurement, and permitting teams. * Assist in the preparation of well ...

Collaborate with cross-functional teams including project managers, geologists, reservoir engineers, drilling personnel, procurement, and permitting teams. * Assist in the preparation of well ...

The Senior Drilling Engineer is responsible for leading the design, planning, and execution of ... Perform other duties and special projects as assigned POSITION SPECIFICATIONS: * Bachelor's degree ...

The Senior Drilling Engineer is responsible for leading the design, planning, and execution of ... Perform other duties and special projects as assigned POSITION SPECIFICATIONS: * Bachelors degree ...

Lead collaboration across project teams including subsurface, drilling operations, procurement, and permitting to ensure aligned well delivery. * Prepare and own detailed well programs, engineering ...

Lead collaboration across project teams including subsurface, drilling operations, procurement, and permitting to ensure aligned well delivery. * Prepare and own detailed well programs, engineering ...

The Sr. Drilling Engineer will be responsible for working directly with the Vice President of Well ... Prepare project timelines, cost estimates and procedures, review reports and records for accuracy ...

The Sr. Drilling Engineer will be responsible for working directly with the Vice President of Well ... Prepare project timelines, cost estimates and procedures, review reports and records for accuracy ...

Drilling Engineer - ACES JOB SUMMARY The Drilling Engineer will be accountable for engineering ... ESSENTIAL DUTIES Perform engineering analysis of projects including calculations and equipment ...

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Project Drilling Engineer information

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$27.5K

$120.2K

$324.5K

How much do project drilling engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for project drilling engineer in the United States is $120,197.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,500.00 and $145,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Project Drilling Engineers?

Project Drilling Engineers are professionals responsible for planning, designing, and overseeing drilling operations for oil, gas, or geothermal wells. Their role includes ensuring that drilling projects are completed safely, efficiently, and within budget while adhering to environmental and regulatory standards. They collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, select appropriate drilling techniques, and troubleshoot technical issues that may arise during the drilling process. Project Drilling Engineers also analyze data, prepare reports, and coordinate logistics to optimize project outcomes.

What are some typical challenges a Project Drilling Engineer faces when coordinating multi-disciplinary teams on-site?

Project Drilling Engineers often work closely with geologists, rig crews, safety officers, and contractors, which can present coordination challenges due to differing priorities and communication styles. Balancing technical requirements, safety standards, and project deadlines requires strong organizational and interpersonal skills. Additionally, unforeseen issues such as equipment failures or geological surprises may require quick problem-solving and adaptability to keep the project on track. Open communication and effective leadership are key to overcoming these challenges and ensuring project success.

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

AspectProject Drilling EngineerDrilling Supervisor
ResponsibilitiesDesigns drilling programs, oversees technical aspects, ensures safety complianceManages daily drilling operations, supervises drilling crew, enforces safety protocols
CredentialsBachelor's in Petroleum Engineering or related field, relevant certificationsExperience in drilling operations, safety training, technical knowledge
Work EnvironmentOffice-based with site visits, planning and technical analysisOn-site supervision of drilling activities
Industry UsageCommonly employed in oil and gas exploration projectsTypically found in operational drilling sites

The Project Drilling Engineer focuses on planning, designing, and technical oversight of drilling projects, while the Drilling Supervisor manages daily operations and crew on-site. Both roles require technical knowledge and safety awareness but differ in scope and responsibilities.

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

To thrive as a Project Drilling Engineer, you need a solid background in petroleum engineering or a related field, along with experience in well design and drilling operations. Familiarity with drilling software (such as WellPlan or Landmark), safety regulations, and industry certifications like IWCF or IADC Well Control is essential. Strong analytical thinking, communication, and team coordination skills help you manage complex projects and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring safe, efficient, and cost-effective drilling operations.
More about Project Drilling Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Project Drilling Engineer jobs? For Project Drilling Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Project Drilling Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $120,197 per year, or $57.8 per hour.
Drilling Engineer

Drilling Engineer

Hercules Offshore

Houston, TX

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

The Drilling Engineer will support Hercules Offshore Drilling & Completion (D&C) team. This position will manage directional planning databases and coordinate interfaces between engineering, operations, logistics, and subsurface teams.

Responsibilities:

Specifically work with the D&C Well Delivery Team on the development phase I drilling campaign
Ensure compliance with Company and Drilling & Completion policies, standards and approved procedures
Manage wells directional planning database plus survey database
Drafting and owning project Directional Surveying Policy
Manage the interfaces between engineering, operations, logistics and subsurface during all phases of the well/project
Liaison and management of daily interface between D&C and all stakeholders
Support drilling engineering projects
Work with the Well Delivery Team on Phase I drilling campaign
Manage directional planning and survey databases (Compass)
Draft and maintain the project’s Directional Surveying Policy
Perform torque, drag, and hydraulics analysis using industry software for program optimization
Assist in well planning, design, engineering, costing, and operational execution
Prepare scopes of work for tenders, evaluate vendors, and draft award recommendations
Ensure Well Barrier Schematics are current and valid
Maintain campaign performance database (TvD curves, NPT records, KPIs)
Coordinate After Action Reviews (AAR) and Lessons Learned database
Engage and manage service companies to ensure safe and efficient delivery
Participate in risk assessments, DWOP/CWOP, and pre-job planning meetings

Requirements

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Experience:

6-8 years in drilling engineering with operators or service companies
Experience in multi-well development projects with directional/horizontal wells
Proficiency in Landmark tools (Wellplan, StressCheck, Compass) or equivalents
Valid IWCF Level 4 certification preferred