Senior Drilling EngineerDepartment: Upstream Operations - Drilling & Completions
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: US TX Houston - Corporate Office
Job DescriptionPosition Summary: Caturus Energy is seeking a highly skilled Senior Drilling Engineer with expertise in Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) and experience in High-Temperature, High-Pressure (HTHP) environments. The ideal candidate will play a critical role in planning and executing complex well designs, optimizing drilling performance, and ensuring operational efficiency while maintaining the highest safety standards.
While prior experience in Haynesville, Austin Chalk, and Eagle Ford formations is a plus, it is not a requirement. The successful candidate will work closely with multi-disciplinary teams, including geologists, reservoir engineers, and operations personnel, to deliver high-quality drilling programs in challenging environments.
Key Accountabilities:Drilling Engineering & Well Design- Design, plan, and execute drilling programs with a focus on MPD techniques to optimize wellbore stability and pressure control.
- Apply HTHP drilling best practices to mitigate downhole risks and ensure well integrity.
- Evaluate offset well data to improve drilling efficiency and minimize non-productive time (NPT).
- Collaborate with geologists and reservoir engineers to optimize well trajectories and target intervals.
Operations & Execution- Provide real-time technical support to rig-site teams for MPD and conventional drilling operations.
- Implement and monitor drilling optimization strategies, including ROP (Rate of Penetration) management, bit selection, and drilling fluid optimization.
- Lead troubleshooting efforts for drilling dysfunctions, well control events, and formation-related challenges.
- Coordinate with service providers and vendors to ensure the use of cutting-edge MPD technologies.
Safety, Compliance & Performance Optimization- Ensure adherence to HSE (Health, Safety, and Environmental) standards and regulatory requirements.
- Conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation plans for complex drilling scenarios.
- Utilize data analytics and performance tracking tools to drive continuous improvement.
- Implement lessons learned from previous drilling operations to enhance best practices.
Technical Leadership & Collaboration- Mentor and train field team in MPD and HTHP drilling methodologies.
- Participate in drilling optimization workshops and contribute to the development of standard operating procedures (SOPs).
- Support budgeting and cost estimation for drilling projects to optimize economic performance.
Qualifications Education, Certificates, and Licenses:- Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineer, Mechanical Engineering or a related field required.
Experience:- 10+ years of experience as a Drilling Engineer with a strong focus on Managed Pressure Drilling Proven track record in HTHP well operations and experience handling well control challenges Experience in Haynesville, Austin Chalk or Eagle Ford a plus
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:- Proficiency in drilling engineering software (e.g., K&M ERA, WellView, Corva, or similar).
- Strong understanding of pressure management techniques, well control, and fluid dynamics.
- Knowledge of downhole tools, BHA design, and MPD choke systems.
- Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills in high-pressure environments.
- Strong communication and leadership abilities to collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams.
- Ability to work independently while supporting field operations as needed.
