Lead Drilling Engineer

Our client, a major operator based in Aberdeen has a requirement for a Lead Drilling Engineer on a PAYE / Agency Worker contract. The role will be based in Aberdeen and offers hybrid working.

ROLE

This is a high priority requirement to support ongoing projects within their technical services team. Within technically challenging areas, with budgetary and time constraints, the role will play an important role in optimising well operations and ensuring that wells are fit for purpose. As well as developing the asset D&W strategy for tackling technical challenges. This is critical to achieving the objectives of the TS D&W function.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Project management and supervision of all Wells Construction Engineering tasks with full autonomy as per WCM Procedure (L2-WCM-00-001). Ensuring wells are designed and prepared in accordance with company Rules and UK Regulations, in a timely manner, in liaison with the other project members (Completion, testing, fluids etc). Management of all key interfaces related to the specific Well Project (rig Contractor, Key Contractors, internal TE Teams, external Partners, Authorities etc.).
Responsible for the detailed review and QC of all engineering work conducted by the SDE/DE to achieve the well design and delivery.
Supervise team of DE/SDE to deliver specific studies/activities to a high standard and with positive outcome.
Supervise and coach/mentor other DE/SDE in the team.
Assist the Asset Drilling & Wells Team Leader and demonstrate management commitment to safety.
Assist the Asset Drilling & Wells Team Leader to implement and sustain a strong performance & cost culture within D&W.
Assist the Asset Drilling & Wells Team Leader in developing asset specific specialties e.g. (Deepwater, HPHT, Extended Reach Drilling).
Supervision/preparation of wells budget and duration and ensure accurate follow-up is done on a frequent basis by the Drilling Engineers.
Propose changes and/or innovations with properly identified risks and expected benefits. Document such innovations in the REX system.
Ensure material stock remains compatible with the drilling schedule and update/follow up equipment preparation for routine/non-routine operations with the assistance of the Drilling Engineer.
Effective contract management of contracts allocated, ensuring best value for company and proper execution of the contract. Follow up of contractor performances, plan and conduct QA/QC audits and SQM.
Defining the contracting strategy for particular services. Lead call for tenders and award of contracts for the provision of services specific to the projects and assist the negotiation of drilling related contracts required for future operations. Support the Asset Drilling & Wells Team Leader and Joint Venture and Development Departments as technical interface assistant between the client and its partners for the drilling aspects.
Ensure active performance tracking and management, deploy company DAF and Group digital tools to improve drilling performance.
Collaborate with relevant Geoscience Metiers in the organisation and preparation of Well Statement of Requirement.
Organise and participate to HAZID/HAZOP when required and ensure recommendations are applied.
If assigned to CNS - Master ‘HPHT specialties’, such as HP/HT casing design in WellCAT and Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) operations.
If assigned to WOS - Master ‘Harsh Environment / Rig station keeping specialties’, to be able to optimize the wells construction programs around the WOS Harsh Environment challenges.
If assigned to NNS - Master ‘Platform Drilling environment’, to be able to optimize the wells construction programs around the NNS Platform Drilling challenges.
Optimisation of safe working practices and Carbon Footprint Reduction (CFR) are considered in all subjects.
‘Major risks’ are identified and mitigated in the development of operational programmes and lead the well risk assessment process as required.
Drilling programmes/end of well reports are prepared to the required deadlines, standard and accuracy.
Applications (HSE notifications, DECC permits) and returns to external agencies are prepared as required to satisfy the overall drilling programme in a timely manner, track and co-ordinate approvals and permits.
Application for derogations as required.
Proactively identify and prepare programme amendments/MOCs in case of unscheduled events.
All programs, updates/MOCs and notifications are in line with the Well Examination Scheme
Act as stand in for the Asset Drilling & Wells Team Leader in his absence, covering chain of command and operational responsibilities
REQUIREMENTS

The job holder will hold a BSc of MSc or equivalent in appropriate engineering discipline (Mechanical, Chemical, Offshore or Petroleum) with >10 years’ experience in well engineering.
Capable of leading teams/individuals for specific scopes.
Chain of Command DM level.
Organisational skills to prioritise and manage a heavy workload in a rapidly changing environment.
Drilling Engineering software (T-DESK, Wellcat, Wellview )
Job Holder will be committed to developing skills and experience in technical discipline i.e. well completion design, well architecture calculation etc.
Well-developed knowledge of contractual/legal/terms & conditions/insurance issues.
Ability to drive high quality delivery of complex studies / projects with minimal supervision.
Previous experiences of asset specific domains desirable