Drilling Engineer

Formentera Partners LP•Austin, TX

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Formentera Operations is hiring a Drilling Engineer to optimize drilling operations across multiple basins. The role involves designing, planning, and executing drilling programs while promoting safety, efficiency, and environmental responsibility. The engineer will work with multidisciplinary teams and contribute to the growth and success of Formentera Operations. The position is based in Austin, Texas, in-office, with preferred willingness to travel to U.S. field locations for a cumulative 30–60 days per year. The role requires prolonged sitting, some bending and stooping, occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds, and manual dexterity to operate a computer keyboard and calculator.

Requirements

At least 5 years of recent experience as a Drilling Engineer, with a track record of working in multiple basins.
Bachelor’s degree in engineering, such as Mechanical, Petroleum, or a related engineering field.
Proficiency with drilling software and tools, including Wellview, Compass/Wellplan or equivalent, wellbore stability analysis, and fluid hydraulics.
Strong understanding of drilling practices, equipment, and regulatory requirements.
Strong problem-solving skills and ability to make critical decisions under pressure.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Demonstrated commitment to safety, environmental stewardship, and ethical conduct.
Well Control Certification (Drilling Surface - Supervisor Level).
Ability to work independently on specific drilling tasks and collaboratively on cross-functional technical teams, including communicating with non-technical staff.

Nice To Haves

Ability and willingness to travel to U.S. field locations for a cumulative 30–60 days per year.
Practical knowledge of other field operations, including production and facilities design; hands-on completions experience in a dedicated completions role is a plus.
5–10 years of experience at an active E&P company, with preference for candidates currently active in the field.
Practical understanding of petroleum economics and ability to contribute to the Asset/Deal valuation process.

Responsibilities

Develop, plan, and oversee vertical and horizontal drilling programs across multiple basins, including casing design, wellhead systems, directional planning, drilling fluid systems, and cement design.
Apply knowledge of drilling techniques, technologies, and equipment to optimize processes and enhance performance.
Ensure drilling operations comply with safety standards and environmental regulations, implementing practices to mitigate risks.
Monitor and manage drilling budgets, identify cost-saving opportunities, and write AFEs.
Analyze drilling data to identify trends, inefficiencies, and improvement opportunities, and use data-driven decisions to enhance performance.
Collaborate with geologists, reservoir, production, land, regulatory, and field operations personnel to achieve drilling goals and milestones.
Evaluate vendor performance and keep current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices to improve drilling operations.
Maintain accurate records, prepare technical reports, and present findings.