Driller - Permian Basin

Patterson-UTI•Warfield, TX

About The Position

The Driller monitors well conditions and drilling parameters and operates and monitors the drilling rig’s hoisting, well control, mud, and power systems. The role supervises the rig crew, delegates work to Derrickhands, Motorhands, and Floorhands, and communicates with rig personnel and third parties, including customer representatives and Directional Drillers. The Driller operates equipment from the console, including raising and lowering the drill stem, lowering casing, making drill-stem connections, controlling mud pumps and rotary table speed, and adjusting weight on the bit. The position oversees drilling activities, follows the established drilling plan, maintains well control, supports equipment maintenance and problem solving, keeps the rig and cabin clean, and records drilling activities and submits daily Tour Sheets. This position works outdoors for the entire tour shift in varied weather and typically hazardous industrial conditions. The schedule is a 14-days-on/14-days-off rotation, with 12.5-hour shifts that may include days, nights, weekends, and holidays. Mandatory or unscheduled hours outside the assigned schedule may also be required.

Requirements

Demonstrated ability to successfully complete the duties of a Floorhand, Motorhand, and Derrickhand.
Ability to use a computer and multiple monitors to track drilling activities.
Ability to use standard formulas and basic mathematical equations for well-control calculations.
Ability to communicate directions and expectations effectively to rig crew and third parties.
Ability to repetitively climb steep stairs and independently lift and carry 50 pounds while walking on uneven surfaces.
Comfort working at heights of 50 feet or greater for extended periods.
Willingness to travel to and work in remote locations on a 14-days-on/14-days-off rotational schedule, with 12.5-hour shifts that may include days, nights, weekends, and holidays.
Willingness to work mandatory and unscheduled hours outside the assigned schedule with little or no advance notice.
Willingness and ability to attend and successfully complete classroom training and testing to qualify for a rig assignment.
Ability to meet pre-employment testing requirements, which may include drug and alcohol testing and background checks, and to undergo periodic drug or alcohol testing during employment, subject to applicable law.
Valid Well Control Certification or IADC WellSHARP certification, or ability to obtain certification upon hire.
High school diploma or GED.
At least six months of experience as a Driller on a drilling rig.
Experience running Amphion and/or Omron dual-joystick rigs.
Twelve months of stable related work history.
Ability to remain alert and focused, make sound and quick decisions in changing and hazardous conditions, and follow verbal and written instructions in English.
Ability to work independently during downtime and wear required personal protective equipment.

Nice To Haves

Advanced education, such as college or trade school.
Twelve months of experience as a Driller on a drilling rig.
Two to three years of experience working in a rig-based position for a drilling contractor.

Responsibilities

Monitor well conditions and drilling parameters and operate the rig’s hoisting, well control, mud, and power systems.
Oversee drilling activities and monitor rig employees and third parties working on, entering, or exiting the rig floor.
Operate the Driller’s console to raise and lower the drill stem, lower casing into the well, make drill-stem connections, control or run mud pumps, control rotary table speed, and adjust weight on the bit.
Follow the established plan for drilling operations and maintain well control.
Supervise and direct the rig crew, delegate tasks, and provide leadership, instruction, training, and development to rig employees.
Ensure the Derrickhand maintains proper drilling fluid properties and assist with rig-up and rig-down procedures.
Communicate with the Rig Manager, Company Man, Directional Driller, crew members, customer representatives, and other third parties as necessary.
Ensure regular maintenance of equipment and machinery and assist the Rig Manager with preventing and solving problems to keep the rig operational.
Maintain daily logs of drilling activities and submit daily Tour Sheets.
Maintain the Driller’s cabin and perform general rig and drilling-floor housekeeping, including sweeping, shoveling, cleaning, painting, and washing equipment.
Support other crew members, ensure compliance with safety procedures, and perform other assigned duties.