Drilling Supervisor Job Description

From the coldest regions of the earth to some of the deepest and unforgiving waters of the oceans, oil and gas drilling rig facilities engage in the extraction of hydrocarbons. A mentally demanding job as much as a physical one, it attracts only men and women of a strong willed character who tend to excel in this environment. Management and supervision of the crews who perform this work demands an extensive knowledge and understanding of several different fields.

Qualifications

The ability to work away from home for extended periods in varying locations of the world is at the top of the list. An oil and gas drilling background with experience in performing those tasks is required to maintain a safe and productive facility. Regulatory agencies and companies who employ drilling supervisors require multiple certifications including well control, first aid and others. Knowledge of engineering, geology and drilling rig tools is required.

Responsibilities

The drilling supervisor is often the senior member of the drilling location. Responsibilities include budgetary considerations, ensuring supplies and materials are available when needed, meeting the crew and staff's needs for the performance of their duties, as well as daily reporting to various entities of the current activities.

Career Path

Depending on the size of the oil and gas company, the drilling supervisor position is either contracted to a consultant group or kept in the full time employ of the company. Both offer opportunities to advance into a superintendent, and later management, position as they become available. Most drilling supervisors have either started with the company at an entry level position or been assigned to a drilling crew for one to three years after having graduated from college.

Industries Served

A segment of the energy industry, oil and gas drilling is the primary field employing drilling supervisors. While the duties are similar regardless of the company, geographic locations and drilling rig types vary widely. Other drilling opportunities, such as water well drilling, do exist, but make up a very small part of the overall drilling population.

Salary

The position of a drilling supervisor employs both degreed engineers and specialists with years of practical experience in the industry. Among one of the highest paying positions in the industry, drilling supervisors often command from $80,000 to $200,000 per year.

References

• Atlas 4 Jobs: Drilling Supervisor