Drilling engineer
Construct wells to extract oil and gas which are effective, safe for people to operate and do not pollute the environment.
About the job
What it's like
As a drilling engineer, you'll design and oversee the drilling of wells to extract oil, gas or other resources from beneath the earth's surface. You'll combine technical knowledge with problem-solving skills to keep projects running safely and efficiently.
You'll focus on planning and managing drilling operations, often in challenging environments. You'll work closely with geologists, rig crews and other engineers to make sure drilling is safe, cost-effective and meets strict regulations. This role is rewarding, especially when you solve complex technical problems or help bring a new well into production.
You might be involved in designing drilling programmes, selecting equipment, monitoring progress and troubleshooting issues as they happen. Drilling engineers are found in the oil and gas industry, geothermal energy, mining and even in some environmental and water supply projects.
Some drilling engineers specialise in offshore drilling, deepwater operations or new drilling technologies.
Your tasks might include:
designing drilling programmes and selecting suitable equipment
monitoring drilling progress and adjusting plans as needed
troubleshooting technical problems on site or remotely
making sure all operations meet safety and environmental standards
working with suppliers to source materials and services
preparing detailed reports and presenting findings to project teams
Green job
In this job you could be doing work to help the environment. You might:
develop safer drilling techniques to reduce environmental impact
support geothermal energy projects for renewable power
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
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Engineering and manufacturing -
Energy
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- analysing
- taking responsibility
- making decisions
- time management
- developing a plan
- attention to detail
- working with numbers
- working with technology
- verbal communication
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
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Design and Manufacture
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Design and Technology
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Engineering Science
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Maths (Mathematics)
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Practical Craft Skills
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Science
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Skills for Work: Energy
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Skills for Work: Engineering Skills
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Foundation Apprenticeship: Engineering
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Foundation Apprenticeship: Automotive
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Foundation Apprenticeship: Construction
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
University
You’ll need a degree or postgraduate qualification in a relevant subject, such as:
Mechanical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Offshore Engineering
Energy Engineering
Engineering Systems
College
Getting qualifications at college, such as an HNC or HND, could help you get a job or progress to more advanced study. Useful subjects include:
Mechanical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Engineering Systems
Measurement and Control Engineering
Energy Engineering
Apprenticeships
Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) mean you learn on the job. You get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time. You might want to consider an MA in areas such as:
Discover MAs on Apprenticeships.scot.
Graduate Apprenticeships (GAs) are designed for industry. You'll spend most of your time learning on the job but you'll also go to uni. You'll get a job, get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time.
You might want to consider a GA in Civil Engineering.
Discover GAs on Apprenticeships.scot
Other apprenticeship schemes
If you have experience in related industries such as engineering, construction or other oil and gas sectors, you might be able to apply directly for more specialised roles.
Getting work experience in a relevant role can help you. Search for opportunities on Volunteer Scotland.
To work offshore you must:
pass regular medical examinations
pass an offshore survival course
get an emergency training certificate (BOSIET)
be aged 18 or older
Find the right course for you
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Drilling engineer'
