Lead Performance Drilling Engineer

. Optimize safety, ft/day, and $/ft performance within drilling .

Posted 11/2/2026full-timeUnited StatesSenior💰 $200,000 - $235,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in optimizing drilling performance through technical knowledge in casing design, directional drilling, and BHA design, while ensuring safety and compliance with industry standards. Proven ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams and deliver continuous improvement in drilling operations.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Drilling EngineeringCasing DesignDirectional DrillingDrilling Performance OptimizationHSE Compliance

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Drilling FluidsCementingContingency PlanningTorque & Drag ModellingHydraulicsHorizontal Well DrillingBHA DesignRock Mechanical PropertiesData AnalyticsTechnical Proposal Development

Soft Skills

Excellent CommunicationPresentation SkillsLeadershipCollaborationProblem-Solving

Tools & Technologies

Computer Software for ModellingData Analytics Tools

Certifications & Qualifications

BS Degree in EngineeringWC CertificationMurchison TrainingExtended Reach Drilling Training

Industry Keywords

Drilling ProjectsRisk AssessmentsMOCsContinuous ImprovementOperational Efficiency

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Optimize safety, ft/day, and $/ft performance within drilling
Work with engineering peers, well site supervisors, the remote operations center, and subsurface team members
Deliver improvements in on-bottom and flat-time metrics
Promote safe, compliant, and technically sound well delivery
Design and execute safe, technically sound, and cost-effective drilling projects
Support technical performance improvements within the drilling program
Execute drilling performance projects across the company
Drive continuous improvement through standardization
Analyze drilling inefficiencies and make parameter/BHA recommendations
Identify risks and mitigating controls, including risk assessments and MOCs
Align procedures with corporate, regulatory, and asset standards
Collaborate with Drilling Engineers, Drilling Superintendents, cross-functional teams, and vendors
Prepare and present information to peers and cross-functional teams
Secure service bids from approved subcontractors and engage qualified contractors
Research offset wells and evaluate new drilling ideas, methods, and techniques
Manage workload as rig activity changes
Promote a safe, inclusive, and engaging work environment

Requirements

What you’ll need

BS degree in Engineering from an accredited (USA accreditation standard) university
Preferred degrees are Petroleum, Mechanical or Civil Engineering
8 or more years of experience as a Drilling Engineer with an independent or major oil company in a similar capacity
Work experience with an industry service provider is a plus
Experience with computer software for modelling casing design, directional well plan, hydraulics, torque & drag
Detailed and demonstrated technical knowledge of drilling horizontal wells
Engineering and operational experience in casing design, directional drilling, drill string/BHA design, drilling fluids, cementing, and contingency planning
Strong awareness of rock mechanical properties, drill bits, drilling fluids, downhole drilling vibration, and BHA/performance components
Excellent communication and presentation skills
Industry training such as WC Certification, Murchison, Extended Reach drilling, or similar courses is preferred
Ability to develop ideas and technical proposals with minimal supervision
Track record optimizing drilling performance and promoting continuous improvement
Ability to seek new and more efficient ways to improve drilling performance
Leadership in managing an HSE-compliant operation without sacrificing operational efficiency
Familiarity with data analytics tools and basic programming skills
Must be legally authorized to work full-time in the United States for any employer other than your current employer
Must not require sponsorship now or in the future for employment visa status

Benefits

Comp & perks

Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Paid time off
Discretionary annual bonus program
Long-term incentive program
401(k) matching program
Reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities
Up to 10% travel should be expected with this role