Directional Driller/MLWD

Directional Driller

KSA/UAE/Africa

Drilling Supervisor / Operations Manager

The Directional Driller plays a pivotal role in ensuring the successful execution of directional drilling operations. This involves operating advanced drilling tools and technologies, monitoring drilling parameters in real-time, and making necessary adjustments to optimize the well's path. The successful candidate will be responsible for maximizing the efficiency and safety of drilling operations while adhering to project specifications and client requirements.

1. Directional Drilling Operations: Plan, execute, and manage directional drilling operations to drill wellbores according to the target trajectory, maintaining precise control over well direction.
2. Tool and Equipment Management: Set up, operate, and troubleshoot directional drilling equipment such as downhole motors, rotary steerable systems (RSS), measurement-while-drilling (MWD) tools, and logging-while-drilling (LWD) systems.
3. Well Path Planning & Trajectory Control: Collaborate with drilling engineers and geologists to interpret the well plan, making adjustments to drilling parameters such as weight-on-bit, RPM, and flow rates to maintain the well path.
4. Data Monitoring & Reporting: Monitor real-time data from MWD/LWD systems, including inclination, azimuth, and formation data, to ensure the wellbore remains on course. Prepare detailed reports on drilling progress and tool performance.
5. Communication & Collaboration: Coordinate with the rig crew, drilling engineers, and other service providers to execute drilling operations efficiently. Communicate regularly with the operations team and clients to provide updates on well progress.
6. Troubleshooting & Problem-Solving: Diagnose and address operational challenges such as stuck pipe, hole instability, or downhole tool failure, ensuring quick resolution to minimize downtime.
7. Safety & Compliance: Adhere to and promote safety protocols, ensuring that all directional drilling activities comply with company policies, client requirements, and industry safety standards (e.g., OSHA, HSE, API regulations).
8. Optimization & Performance Improvement: Continuously assess drilling performance and make adjustments to improve drilling efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize risks associated with the well's trajectory.
9. Rig Site Supervision: Provide on-site supervision during drilling operations, ensuring all drilling equipment is properly operated and maintained, and that the rig crew is following the correct procedures.
10. Post-Job Analysis & Reporting: Review drilling operations upon job completion, prepare post-well reports, and evaluate the effectiveness of the directional drilling strategy. Identify areas for improvement in future operations.

1. Education: Bachelor's degree in petroleum engineering, mechanical engineering, or related technical field preferred. Relevant industry experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
2. Experience: Minimum 3-5 years of experience in directional drilling, with hands-on experience using MWD/LWD systems, rotary steerable systems (RSS), and downhole drilling tools.
3. Technical Skills: Proficiency in directional drilling software (e.g., Landmark, WellPlan, or other industry software). Knowledge of wellbore surveying techniques and the ability to interpret geological and directional data.
4. Certifications: Well control certification, H2S training, and other relevant industry certifications preferred (e.g., IWCF or IADC certification).
5. Physical Requirements: Ability to work in physically demanding environments, including offshore and remote locations, while enduring long shifts and extended time away from home.
6. Driver's License: Valid commercial driver's license (CDL) or equivalent may be required depending on the region.
7. Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey technical information clearly and work effectively in a team environment.

1. Technical Proficiency: Deep understanding of directional drilling tools, techniques, and downhole equipment.
2. Problem-Solving: Ability to troubleshoot downhole issues and adjust drilling parameters to address challenges such as wellbore deviation or equipment malfunction.
3. Attention to Detail: High level of precision in monitoring and adjusting the well trajectory to ensure compliance with the well plan.
4. Collaboration & Leadership: Ability to lead the drilling team and coordinate effectively with engineers, geologists, and rig crews to achieve well objectives.
5. Safety Focus: Strong commitment to maintaining a safe working environment and ensuring adherence to all safety protocols.