Principal Drilling Engineer

About the role

The Principal Drilling Engineer provides technical leadership and engineering support for the planning, design and execution of drilling and work‑over operations. This senior position ensures safe, efficient and cost‑effective drilling programmes while maintaining strict compliance with company standards, procedures and HSE requirements.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the development of drilling and work‑over programmes, including well design, tubular design and completions.
• Support rig operations and oversee wellbore construction, drilling‑fluid selection and well‑control measures.
• Identify, assess and mitigate operational risks throughout the drilling lifecycle.
• Coordinate with internal stakeholders, contractors and service providers to ensure seamless execution.
• Maintain compliance with HSE policies, industry standards and company procedures.

Required profile

• Minimum 15 years of drilling operations engineering experience with an operating company.
• Bachelor’s degree in Petroleum Engineering or a related engineering discipline from an accredited university.
• Strong analytical mindset with the ability to make sound operational decisions.
• High energy, enthusiasm and a commitment to exceed performance expectations.

Required skills

• Well design, tubular design, completions, wellbore construction.
• Drilling‑fluid engineering and well‑control expertise.
• Good understanding of geology.
• Proficiency with drilling engineering software such as Compass, Well Plan, Stress Check and Casing Seat (or equivalent).