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Workover Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Chess

Adjunct Well Control Instructor

San Jose, CA · On-site +1

$30.64 - $45.26/hr

Drilling operations Intervention or workover operations Wellsite completions or wellsite operational experience Well control specialist or well control engineer * Possession of or ability to readily ...

All JobsWorkover Engineer JobsWorkover Engineer Jobs in California

Workover Engineer information

What does a workover engineer do?

A Workover Engineer is responsible for planning and overseeing well intervention and maintenance operations to optimize oil and gas production. They design workover programs, select appropriate tools, and ensure that operations are conducted safely and efficiently. Their role involves troubleshooting well issues, coordinating with service providers, and managing costs to maximize well performance. Workover Engineers play a critical role in extending the life of wells and enhancing recovery rates.

What are some common challenges a workover engineer might face on the job?

Workover Engineers often face challenges such as unpredictable downhole conditions, tight project deadlines, and the need to quickly adapt to changing operational requirements. They must troubleshoot complex well issues, coordinate closely with field crews, and manage logistics to minimize equipment downtime. The role typically involves both office-based planning and field supervision, requiring flexibility and strong organizational skills. Overcoming these challenges offers valuable experience and the opportunity to develop expertise that can lead to senior engineering or project management positions.

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

To thrive as a Workover Engineer, you need a solid understanding of well intervention, completion operations, and petroleum engineering principles, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with well control equipment, downhole tools, and industry software such as Wellview or OpenWells, as well as applicable safety certifications like IWCF or IADC, is fundamental. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and teamwork skills are valuable assets for collaborating with multi-disciplinary field teams. These qualifications ensure safety, operational efficiency, and the successful execution of complex well servicing operations.

What are popular job titles related to Workover Engineer jobs in California?

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What job categories do people searching Workover Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Workover Engineer jobs in California are:

Workover Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Workover Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 16% Internship, and 84% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Wells Engineer

California Resources Corporation

Bakersfield, CA • On-site

$86K - $117K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

California Resources Corporation is a publicly traded oil and natural gas exploration and production company and the largest oil and natural gas producer in California. We operate our world-class resource base exclusively within the State of California, applying complementary and integrated infrastructure to gather, process and market our production. Using advanced technology, CRC's workforce focuses on safely and responsibly supplying affordable energy for California by Californians.
We are currently looking for a motivated, and creative individual to fill the position of Wells Engineer.
The base annual salary for this posted position is reasonably expected to range from $135K - $177K, with a target annual bonus of 15% of base salary and eligibility to participate in our long-term incentive program. Individual pay decisions are based on several factors, including education, experience level and relevant industry experience. Benefits Include: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k with Match, Paid holidays, FSA, HSA.
Responsibilities:
  • Develop engineering designs, programs, and execution plans for drilling, completion, workover, and abandonment operations.
  • Prepare detailed well cost estimates, authorizations for expenditure (AFEs), and economic evaluations.
  • Perform engineering calculations, risk assessments, and technical studies to optimize well designs and operational performance.
  • Support procurement activities by defining technical requirements and reviewing bids from service providers and contractors.
  • Provide technical support during well execution, including troubleshooting operational challenges and recommending corrective actions.
  • Prepare and lead post-well reviews, look-backs, and lessons-learned sessions to identify opportunities for improvement.
  • Conduct cost-correlation analyses and benchmarking to improve forecasting accuracy and operational efficiency.
  • Track key performance indicators (KPIs) and support initiatives aimed at reducing well delivery costs and improving execution performance.
  • Identify and implement best practices to enhance safety, reliability, and operational excellence.
  • Collaborate with the Regulatory team to support preparation and submission of permits and other required documentation.
  • Ensure well designs and operational plans comply with applicable federal, state, and local regulations, company standards, and industry best practices.
  • Provide engineering support during regulatory reviews, inspections, and audits as needed.
  • Maintain close engagement with field operations teams during critical phases of well execution.
  • Conduct periodic visits to well sites to observe operations, evaluate performance, verify compliance with approved programs, and identify opportunities for improvement.
  • Support field personnel by providing timely engineering guidance and technical expertise.
  • Work effectively with multidisciplinary teams, including Operations, Production, Geoscience, HSE, Regulatory, Supply Chain, and Finance.
  • Prepare technical reports, presentations, and management summaries related to well performance, costs, and project status.
  • Foster a culture of safety, accountability, continuous improvement, and knowledge sharing.
  • Strong understanding of drilling, completion, intervention, well surveillance, well optimization, and/or abandonment engineering principles.
  • Familiarity with well planning software, cost tracking systems, and engineering analysis tools.
  • Knowledge of California permitting processes and regulatory frameworks is desirable.
  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
  • Availability to support critical well operations outside normal business hours on an as-needed basis may be required.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline required.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in drilling, completions, workover, abandonment, integrated wells engineering, or oilfield service company.
  • Experience with California well operations and regulatory requirements is preferred.
  • Experience developing well cost estimates, AFEs, and post-well performance evaluations.
  • Experience implementing engineering solutions using artificial intelligence (AI) a plus.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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