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Senior Drilling Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SM-Energy Company

Sr. Drilling Engineer

Midland, TX · On-site

The Senior Drilling Engineer reports directly to the Drilling Engineering Supervisor and is expected to work closely with the Drilling Superintendents, Drilling Engineering Team, and the Drilling ...

QB Energy

Sr Drilling Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$206K - $255K/yr

Job Summary The Sr. Drilling Engineer is responsible for planning, engineering, and supporting the execution of the company's drilling operations. This position requires a sound knowledge of well ...

Devon Energy

Sr Drilling Engineer

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

The Senior Drilling Engineer, working under limited supervision, is responsible for planning, design, and documentation for complex well drilling programs. The role administers drilling and service ...

Devon Energy

Sr Drilling Engineer

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

The Senior Drilling Engineer, working under limited supervision, is responsible for planning, design, and documentation for complex well drilling programs. The role administers drilling and service ...

Bedrock

Sr. Drilling Engineer

Anchorage, AK · On-site

Prepare the Technical Specifications (& Scope Of Works) for Drilling equipment, materials and services for supporting the process of purchasing / tendering. Support the Well Testing Engineers in ...

Ormat

Sr. Drilling Engineer

Reno, NV · On-site

Provide real-time engineering support during drilling operations, including optimization and structured problem-solving. * Own drilling budgets, cost forecasting, and expenditure control; approve ...

Ormat Technologies, Inc.

Sr. Drilling Engineer

Reno, NV · On-site

Provide real-time engineering support during drilling operations, including optimization and structured problem-solving. * Own drilling budgets, cost forecasting, and expenditure control; approve ...

ProSidian Consulting

Drilling Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site +1

Senior Consultant. We seek Drilling Engineer | Technical Due Diligence & Engineering Validation For Upstream Oil & Gas (Exploration / Production) [DOE0082082] candidates with relevant Energy Industry ...

Targa

Sr. Well / Drilling Engineer

Mont Belvieu, TX · On-site

$94K - $129K/yr

Define project scope, goals and deliverables that support business goals in collaboration with Engineering management, plant management, team members and stakeholders. * Estimate the resources and ...

Targa Resources

Sr. Well / Drilling Engineer

Mont Belvieu, TX · On-site

$94K - $129K/yr

Define project scope, goals and deliverables that support business goals in collaboration with Engineering management, plant management, team members and stakeholders. * Estimate the resources and ...

Trilon Group

Senior Driller

Columbus, OH · On-site

Our talented staff of more than 650+ professionals deliver integrated planning, design, engineering ... Operate geotechnical and environmental drilling equipment, including GeoProbe 7822DT rigs, to ...

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Senior Drilling Engineer information

See salary details

$59.5K

$126.6K

$183.5K

How much do senior drilling engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior drilling engineer in the United States is $126,557.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,500.00 and $143,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Senior Drilling Engineer vs Drilling Engineer?

AspectSenior Drilling EngineerDrilling Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering or related field; extensive industry experienceBachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering or related field; entry to mid-level experience
Work EnvironmentOversees drilling operations, manages teams, and ensures safety standardsAssists in planning and executing drilling operations under supervision
Industry UsageCommonly found in oil and gas companies, service providers, and exploration firmsEntry-level to mid-career roles in similar companies

In summary, a Senior Drilling Engineer typically has more experience, leadership responsibilities, and oversees complex drilling projects, whereas a Drilling Engineer focuses on supporting drilling operations and gaining hands-on experience in the field.

What is a senior drilling engineer?

Senior Drilling Engineers are highly experienced professionals in the oil and gas industry who are responsible for planning, designing, and overseeing drilling operations. They ensure that drilling projects are executed safely, efficiently, and within budget while adhering to all regulatory and environmental standards. Their role involves collaborating with geologists, rig crews, and other engineers to solve complex drilling challenges and select appropriate drilling techniques and equipment. Senior Drilling Engineers also mentor junior staff and contribute to optimizing well performance throughout the drilling lifecycle.

What collaborative interactions does a senior drilling engineer have with other departments during a drilling project?

Senior Drilling Engineers frequently collaborate with geologists, reservoir engineers, and HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) teams to ensure drilling operations are safe, efficient, and aligned with reservoir objectives. They also coordinate closely with procurement and logistics teams for timely delivery of equipment and materials, and with field supervisors to troubleshoot operational challenges. Effective communication across these departments is key to mitigating risks and maintaining project timelines.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a senior drilling engineer?

To thrive as a Senior Drilling Engineer, you need a strong background in petroleum engineering, drilling operations, and project management, often supported by a relevant engineering degree and extensive field experience. Familiarity with drilling software (such as WellPlan or Landmark), well design tools, and industry certifications like IWCF or IADC Well Control is essential. Excellent problem-solving abilities, leadership, and effective communication skills are crucial for coordinating teams and ensuring safety. These competencies are vital for optimizing drilling efficiency, minimizing risks, and delivering projects on time and within budget.
More about Senior Drilling Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Senior Drilling Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Senior Drilling Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Drilling Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Drilling Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Senior Drilling Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Drilling Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Senior Drilling Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Drilling Engineer jobs are:
Senior Drilling Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Drilling Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $126,557 per year, or $60.8 per hour.

Senior Drilling Engineer

Cornerstone Engineering, Inc.

Bakersfield, CA

$100K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Senior Drilling Engineer
Company Overview
Honey Rock Engineers amp; Advisors, LLC, in partnership with Cornerstone Eng. Inc., is a leading consulting firm in oil and gas well engineering and operations. We specialize in providing technical assurance, regulatory compliance, and innovative engineering solutions across the full well lifecycle. With expertise spanning planning, execution, and optimization, our team ensures safe, efficient, and cost-effective well delivery for operators across diverse drilling environments.
Role Summary
Join our team in Bakersfield, CA, for a full-time opportunity as a Senior Drilling Engineer, with California experience. This pivotal role focuses on delivering safe, reliable, and efficient wells by providing engineering design, operational planning, and real-time technical support. Collaborating closely with clients, contractors, and multidisciplinary teams, the engineer will develop well programs, troubleshoot operational challenges, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
Salary Range: $100,000 – $175,000 depending on experience.
Key Qualifications
  • Minimum of 10 years’ experience in drilling engineering
  • Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills with proven ability to adapt to operational challenges.
  • Solid knowledge of drilling standards and processes, well control principles, and regulatory requirements.
  • Proficiency in drilling engineering software and data analysis tools.
  • Excellent communication, teamwork, and client-facing skills.
  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Petroleum, Mechanical, or related field) is required.
Desirable Certifications
  • IWCF or IADC Well Control Certification
  • Professional Engineer (P.E.) license.
  • Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.
  • Relevant OSHA or HSE training.
Scope of Work
  • Planning amp; Design – Develop well plans, casing design, mud programs, and risk assessments.
  • Execution Support – Provide real-time technical input to rig teams, ensuring safe and efficient operations.
  • Optimization – Monitor performance, benchmark results, and apply lessons learned for continuous improvement.
  • Compliance – Ensure adherence to regulatory standards, industry best practices, and client requirements.
  • Collaboration – Partner with geoscience, completions, production, and contractor teams to deliver integrated well solutions.

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