Senior Engineering Manager – Pipe Handling & Robotics

Nabors•Houston, TX

20h

About The Position

The Senior Engineering Manager – Pipe Handling & Robotics leads the design, development, and delivery of advanced pipe handling systems — including power tongs/wrenches and catwalk machines — as well as robotic drilling floor automation systems. This role provides strategic and technical leadership across new construction, refurbishment, upgrade, and modification projects for Canrig pipe handling and robotics product lines. The Senior Engineering Manager partners cross-functionally with Operations, Marketing, Projects, QC, and Purchasing to ensure engineering excellence, safety compliance, and product innovation. This position maintains deep expertise in automated pipe handling, robotic systems integration, and oilfield equipment standards, and is accountable for guiding a team of engineers from concept through field commissioning.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related discipline required.
Minimum 10–12 years of progressive engineering experience in oilfield equipment design, with a focus on pipe handling systems (wrenches, catwalks, elevators, racking systems) and/or robotics/automation.
Demonstrated expertise in the design and integration of automated or robotic pipe handling equipment for land or offshore drilling applications.
Strong knowledge of hydraulic systems, electromechanical systems, and multi-axis robotic platforms.
Proficiency with applicable codes and standards: API, IADC, ASME, AWS, ASTM, and relevant oilfield equipment standards.
Experience with PLC-based control systems, HMI development, and safety interlock/control system integration.
Strong project management skills; ability to manage multiple concurrent projects and lead cross-functional teams.
Demonstrated ability to develop and manage project budgets and resource plans.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to interface at all organizational levels, including executive leadership and field crews.
Proficiency in business software (MS Word, Excel, Project); familiarity with Primavera or similar scheduling tools preferred.
Proficiency in 3D CAD design tools (SolidWorks preferred); familiarity with structural modeling software (e.g., RISA3D, StruCAD).
Ability and willingness to travel domestically and internationally as needed (estimated up to 25%).
Must demonstrate strong critical thinking, spatial reasoning, and problem-solving capabilities.

Responsibilities

Lead the full engineering lifecycle — design basis, work scope, technical requirements, and deliverables — for pipe handling (wrench/catwalk) and robotics product development and project execution.
Oversee mechanical and systems design of power tong/wrench assemblies, hydraulic and electric catwalk systems, and multi-axis robotic pipe handling equipment (e.g., horizontal-to-vertical, stand-building robots).
Direct integration of robotics and automation systems with rig control infrastructure, including PLC/HMI platforms, remote operation consoles, and safety interlock systems.
Provide technical leadership and strategic direction to engineering teams across all phases of product development, including feasibility studies, prototyping, testing, and field deployment.
Establish and enforce design standards aligned with API, IADC, ASME, AWS, and other applicable codes for pipe handling and robotics equipment.
Review and approve engineering calculations, technical drawings, and specifications for compliance with company standards, client contract requirements, and safety regulations.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives in pipe handling automation and robotics to enhance rig floor safety, reduce personnel exposure in hazardous zones, and improve operational efficiency.
Manage project budgets, resource allocation, and delivery schedules; report project status to Operations and Engineering leadership.
Develop and mentor engineering staff and project managers; support succession planning and technical capability development.
Collaborate with PSC and vendors to qualify components, negotiate technical solutions, and maintain delivery schedules for pipe handling and robotics systems.
Support field commissioning, troubleshooting, and technical support for deployed pipe handling and robotic systems at customer locations.
Ensure all project areas meet the highest practical standards of safety and environmental compliance.
Maintain current knowledge of emerging technologies in oilfield robotics, automated pipe handling, and digital rig floor solutions.