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Trainee Mud Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pull back the product with the correct hole opener and utilize the correct mud mixture to insure ... Provide assistance and training to all drilling trainees. * Maintain and inspect rig regularly.

Pull back the product with the correct hole opener and utilize the correct mud mixture to insure ... Provide assistance and training to all drilling trainees. * Maintain and inspect rig regularly.

Pull back the product with the correct hole opener and utilize the correct mud mixture to insure ... Provide assistance and training to all drilling trainees. * Maintain and inspect rig regularly.

Pull back the product with the correct hole opener and utilize the correct mud mixture to insure ... Provide assistance and training to all drilling trainees. * Maintain and inspect rig regularly.

Pull back the product with the correct hole opener and utilize the correct mud mixture to insure ... Provide assistance and training to all drilling trainees. * Maintain and inspect rig regularly.

Showing results 41-60

Trainee Mud Engineer information

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$30.5K

$68.6K

$115.5K

How much do trainee mud engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee mud engineer in the United States is $68,617.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,000.00 and $74,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a trainee mud engineer?

A Trainee Mud Engineer is an entry-level professional who assists in the preparation and management of drilling fluids, commonly known as 'mud,' used in oil and gas drilling operations. Their main role is to learn how to maintain the properties of drilling fluids to ensure efficient drilling and protect the wellbore. Trainees typically work under the supervision of experienced mud engineers, conducting tests, monitoring mud systems, and gaining hands-on experience in the field. Over time, they develop the knowledge and skills needed to take on more responsibility and eventually become fully qualified Mud Engineers.

What is the difference between Trainee Mud Engineer vs Mud Engineer?

AspectTrainee Mud EngineerMud Engineer
CertificationsBasic safety and industry-specific trainingAdvanced certifications, such as IWCF or IWCF-equivalent
Work ExperienceEntry-level, on-the-job trainingSeveral years of experience in mud logging and drilling operations
Work EnvironmentSupervised drilling sites, assisting senior staffOperational drilling sites, responsible for mud system management
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning mud system operations, assisting with maintenanceManaging mud properties, ensuring drilling efficiency and safety

The main difference between a Trainee Mud Engineer and a Mud Engineer is experience and responsibility. Trainee Mud Engineers are in training, focusing on learning basic operations under supervision, while Mud Engineers are fully responsible for mud system management on drilling sites. Certifications and work experience are key factors distinguishing the roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trainee mud engineer?

To thrive as a Trainee Mud Engineer, you need a background in chemistry, geology, or engineering, typically supported by a relevant degree or diploma. Familiarity with drilling fluid systems, laboratory testing equipment, and industry-specific software such as mud logging tools is important. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork enhance performance in this role. These skills and qualities ensure safe, efficient drilling operations and help maintain well integrity in challenging field environments.

What are some common challenges faced by trainee mud engineers during their early assignments?

Trainee Mud Engineers often encounter challenges such as adjusting to the fast-paced, demanding environment of drilling sites and learning to troubleshoot mud system issues in real-time. They must quickly develop a solid understanding of drilling fluid properties and how these affect drilling performance, while also becoming proficient in using various testing equipment and maintaining detailed records. Collaboration with drilling supervisors, senior mud engineers, and rig crew is crucial, and adapting to shift work and remote site conditions can also be an adjustment. With experience, trainees gain confidence and technical expertise, paving the way for career growth in the oil and gas industry.
More about Trainee Mud Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Trainee Mud Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Trainee Mud Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Mud Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Mud Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Trainee Mud Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Trainee Mud Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Trainee Mud Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Trainee Mud Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Trainee Mud Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $68,617 per year, or $33 per hour.

Gas Directional Drill Operator/ Locator

MasTec Utility Services

Humble, TX

$20.25 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Overview

MasTec Utility Services delivers critical infrastructure construction and engineering services for power delivery, gas, and water customers, specializing in overhead and underground electric distribution for power delivery systems, gas distribution construction for gas systems, and turnkey solutions for a variety of water, sewer, and civil infrastructure projects. Backed by the strength of decades of experience, unrivaled industry skills, and a deep commitment to core values, MUS delivers safe, innovative, and environmentally responsible services that provide extraordinary value to clients.

MasTec Utility Services is a purpose-driven company. Our core values guide our strategy, performance, and culture. We believe in maintaining an environment where team members can make an impact, grow, and thrive. A place where they find meaning and purpose in doing the important work of ensuring communities have the vital energy, light, and communications to prosper. Our culture is inclusive and welcoming. Our teams are empowered with abundant training, tools, and opportunities to follow their curiosity and ambitions. Everyone has an equal chance to advance. Everyone is supported, respected, and challenged to be their best. We’re always looking for talented and dedicated people to join us and love where they work.

MasTec Utility Services is a proud subsidiary of MasTec (NYSE: MTZ), a Fortune 500 Company ranked by Energy News-Record as one of the leading contractors in the country. MUS is part of the MasTec Power Delivery segment. We are certified as a minority-controlled company by the National Minority Suppliers Development Council (NMSDC). Our rich diversity of people and ideas makes us a stronger, more innovative organization.

Job Summary

The Gas Directional Drill Operator/Locator is responsible for safely operating the directional drill or locating utilities for a gas drill crew to install and service mainline conduit via HDD then locate the drill head to understand elevation changes and make decisions on drilling depths to avoid hitting underground utilities. This position supports the Line team and works with personnel within the department. 

Operate the drill rig efficiently.


Responsibilities
  • Prepare job and drill so that the shot can be performed safely.
  • Pothole all utilities that will either be paralleled or crossed during the bore shot.
  • Verify existing utilities.
  • Fill water tanks with water.
  • Combine water with chemicals for boring according to the ground you are drilling in.
  • Locate the drill head from point A to point B without hitting any utilities at the correct depth.
  • Hook up swivel, reamer, and pipe product that will be pulled back to complete the bore shot.
  • Before the bore shot is started, walk out bore shot to ensure all utilities have been located and develop a plan for going above or below each utility or obstacle in the bore path.
  • Pull back the product with the correct hole opener and utilize the correct mud mixture to insure that the product makes it from point B to point A.
  • Inspect and maintain equipment.
  • Provide assistance and training to all drilling trainees.
  • Maintain and inspect rig regularly.
  • Implement best practices for utility verification.
  • Read blueprints and assist in preparing drill log records.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma, or equivalent.
  • One year of relevant experience.
  • Current and valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License with tanker endorsement.
  • Current OSHA 10 Certification

Preferred

  • 5 or more years of experience.
  • Experience operating Vermeer and/or Ditchwitch Directional Drills.
  • Experience locating with Subsite and/or Digitrack Locating Equipment.

Physical Demands and Work Environment 

This job operates in a field environment. This role routinely requires extended periods of bending, squatting, climbing, kneeling, pushing, pulling, lifting, lifting in awkward positions, standing, and twisting. Also, working in inclement weather conditions, such as extreme heat, extreme cold, rain, ice, snow, and wind.  

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. This position is physically active, with lifting required. Must be able to bend and lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Clarity of vision at 20 feet or more or 20 inches or less, with the ability to judge distance and space relationships. Precise hand-eye coordination. Ability to identify and distinguish colors. 

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. The Company reserves the right to revise or change the job duties as the need arises. Management reserves the right to change the description, duties, or work schedules to accommodate individuals with disabilities.  

Benefits available include Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability and Life insurance, a 401k plan and Employee Stock Purchase plan. MasTec is a publicly traded company MTZ (NYSE).

Equal Employment Opportunity: 

The Company’s policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, gender, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable law and EEOC regulations. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories.

Qualifications:
  • High school diploma, or equivalent.
  • One year of relevant experience.
  • Current and valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License with tanker endorsement.
  • Current OSHA 10 Certification

Preferred

  • 5 or more years of experience.
  • Experience operating Vermeer and/or Ditchwitch Directional Drills.
  • Experience locating with Subsite and/or Digitrack Locating Equipment.

Physical Demands and Work Environment 

This job operates in a field environment. This role routinely requires extended periods of bending, squatting, climbing, kneeling, pushing, pulling, lifting, lifting in awkward positions, standing, and twisting. Also, working in inclement weather conditions, such as extreme heat, extreme cold, rain, ice, snow, and wind.  

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. This position is physically active, with lifting required. Must be able to bend and lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Clarity of vision at 20 feet or more or 20 inches or less, with the ability to judge distance and space relationships. Precise hand-eye coordination. Ability to identify and distinguish colors. 

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. The Company reserves the right to revise or change the job duties as the need arises. Management reserves the right to change the description, duties, or work schedules to accommodate individuals with disabilities.  

Benefits available include Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability and Life insurance, a 401k plan and Employee Stock Purchase plan. MasTec is a publicly traded company MTZ (NYSE).

Equal Employment Opportunity: 

The Company’s policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, gender, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable law and EEOC regulations. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories.

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME