Control Engineer – Drilling Rig Systems

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Control Engineer to lead the maintenance, troubleshooting, and upgrade of electronic and control systems on drilling rigs. The role involves supervising technicians, ensuring compliance with OEM and regulatory standards, and delivering reliable performance for critical rig operations.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and maintain SOPs for electronics and control systems, reviewing maintenance procedures and testing requirements.
• Lead advanced troubleshooting of control platforms such as Amphion, Cyberbase, Centurion, engine load‑sharing, hydraulic/pneumatic automation, AC & DC drives, and rig instrumentation (VDaq, Mudwatch, Drillwatch).
• Support rig technicians during downtime events, validate root‑cause analyses, and ensure corrective actions address mechanical, hydraulic, or control‑system failures.
• Review and recommend preventive‑maintenance schedules, function‑test intervals, and task lists to meet OEM and safety standards.
• Conduct integrity inspections of control hardware, digital communication networks, PLCs, SBCs, and related computers, escalating risks and certification gaps.
• Provide expertise for system upgrades, overhauls, and recertification projects, reviewing engineering documentation, FAT/SAT plans, and pressure‑testing protocols.

Required profile

• 10‑15 years of hands‑on experience in a supervisory role overseeing electronics and drilling control systems.
• Extensive OEM training or work experience with major drilling rig manufacturers.
• Strong knowledge of electronics, communication systems, and software used onboard rigs.
• Proven ability to develop technical standards, documentation control, and data management processes.

Required skills

• PLC programming and troubleshooting
• SCADA systems
• Instrumentation and networking
• CMMS usage
• Hydraulic and pneumatic control systems
• AC and DC drives
• Rig instrumentation (VDaq, Mudwatch, Drillwatch)
• Fire & Gas, PAGA, PABX, navigation monitoring systems
• Jacking and fixation PLCs, crane and vehicle electronics