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Trainee Offshore Drilling Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hercules Offshore

Drilling Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$150 - $210/hr

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

NOV, Inc.

Associate Electrical Engineer

Houston, TX · Hybrid

* Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering or Engineering Technology - Electronics ... ATEX, IECEx, UL, FM, and CSA for offshore drilling installations. * Experience with AutoCAD ...

NOV, Inc.

Associate Electrical Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering or Engineering Technology - Electronics ... ATEX, IECEx, UL, FM, and CSA for offshore drilling installations. * Experience with AutoCAD ...

NABORS

Principal Mechanical Engineer

Houston, TX

... offshore drilling rigs including but not limited to API, ASME, ASCE, IEEE, ASHRAE, etc ... Performs engineering calculations, drawing review and other engineering functions in relation to ...

NABORS

Senior Engineer- Structural

Houston, TX

$96K - $130K/yr

... offshore drilling rigs including but not limited to API, ASCE, etc. * Discipline specific ... Performs engineering calculations, drawing review and other engineering functions in relation to ...

NABORS

Project Engineer I

Houston, TX

The Project Engineer I is responsible for developing and successfully executing projects including ... offshore drilling rigs including but not limited to API, ASME, ASCE, AISC, ASHRAE, and other ...

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Trainee Offshore Drilling Engineer information

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How much do trainee offshore drilling engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee offshore drilling engineer in the United States is $21.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get into offshore drilling with no experience?

To become a trainee offshore drilling engineer with no experience, candidates typically need a background in engineering or geosciences, and should pursue relevant certifications such as Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET). Gaining entry-level positions or apprenticeships with drilling companies, demonstrating a willingness to learn, and acquiring safety and technical training can help start a career in offshore drilling.

What is a trainee offshore drilling engineer?

Trainee Offshore Drilling Engineers are entry-level professionals who assist in planning and overseeing drilling operations on offshore oil or gas rigs. They work under the supervision of experienced engineers to learn about drilling techniques, equipment maintenance, safety protocols, and project management. Their role often includes hands-on training in both the technical and practical aspects of offshore drilling, preparing them for more advanced engineering positions in the oil and gas industry.

How to become a trainee offshore drilling engineer?

To become a trainee offshore drilling engineer, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in petroleum engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field. Relevant skills include knowledge of drilling equipment, safety procedures, and environmental regulations, and obtaining certifications such as BOSIET or HUET can improve job prospects. Prior internship or work experience in the oil and gas industry is also beneficial for entry into trainee roles.

What does a trainee offshore drilling engineer do?

As a Trainee Offshore Drilling Engineer, your daily responsibilities typically include monitoring drilling operations, assisting with equipment inspections, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. You’ll work closely with senior drilling engineers, rig supervisors, and technical crews to learn about drilling processes, troubleshooting, and reporting. This hands-on role often involves preparing documentation, collecting data, and participating in safety meetings, all of which help you build a strong foundation for future advancement within the offshore drilling sector.

How much do offshore drilling engineers make?

Offshore drilling engineers typically earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, with experienced professionals and those working in high-demand regions earning higher salaries. Compensation often includes additional benefits such as overtime pay, hazard pay, and allowances for working in remote environments.

What is the difference between Trainee Offshore Drilling Engineer vs Junior Offshore Drilling Engineer?

AspectTrainee Offshore Drilling EngineerJunior Offshore Drilling Engineer
QualificationsTypically pursuing or recently completed relevant engineering degreesBachelor's degree in petroleum, mechanical, or related engineering
Work EnvironmentTraining onboard rigs or in offices under supervisionHands-on drilling operations with increasing responsibilities
CertificationsBasic safety and offshore certifications (e.g., BOSIET)Advanced safety certifications, offshore survival, and technical training
ResponsibilitiesLearning drilling processes, assisting senior engineersPerforming specific drilling tasks, supporting operations

In summary, a Trainee Offshore Drilling Engineer is an entry-level position focused on learning and training, while a Junior Offshore Drilling Engineer has more hands-on responsibilities and technical duties, requiring some prior experience or certifications.

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

To thrive as a Trainee Offshore Drilling Engineer, you need a degree in engineering (typically petroleum, mechanical, or chemical engineering), strong analytical skills, and a solid understanding of drilling operations. Familiarity with drilling simulation software, rig safety systems, and relevant industry certifications such as Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET) are often required. Strong teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you adapt to challenging offshore environments and coordinate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining operational efficiency, safety, and compliance in high-risk offshore drilling operations.
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Trainee Offshore Drilling Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trainee Offshore Drilling Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,990 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Offshore Drilling Engineer

INTEC SEA

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Implement safe, environmental sound and efficient well operations. 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. Develop realistic Cost Estimates which reflect an appropriate level of contingency.

Prepare Risk Analysis and mitigation plans are as appropriate. Recommend implementation of new techniques and practices. Follow up on significant problems & make recommendations for improvement.

Document Lessons Learned in Maxwell databases and utilize in future plans. Provide technical assistance & operational analysis to offshore personnel. 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.

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