Fluids Superintendent - Onshore Drilling Operations Rotational H/F - IOTA GROUP

Our client is a major oil & gas operator, active in Gabon and recognized for its high standards in safety, performance, and responsibility.The successful candidate will be responsible for the technical leadership, planning, and execution of drilling and completion fluids programs, cementing activities, and waste management operations. This position plays a key role in ensuring safe, efficient, and cost-effective well construction aligned with operator standards and industry best practices.

The role requires close coordination with Drilling, Completion, Logistics, HSE teams, and third-party service providers.

Key Responsibilities

Technical & Operational Oversight

- Lead the preparation and execution of drilling and completion fluids programs.
- Supervise service providers (drilling fluids, completion fluids, solids control, cementing, mud plant operations).
- Oversee cement program design and field execution.
- Provide operational support to drilling teams and assist in resolving field challenges.
- Monitor fluids performance and recommend optimization measures.

HSE & Compliance

- Promote a strong safety culture across all supervised activities.
- Ensure contractor compliance with HSE policies, industry standards, and regulatory requirements.
- Participate in audits and performance reviews of service companies.

Waste Management

- Manage cuttings and mud waste treatment, handling, and disposal in compliance with environmental regulations.
- Supervise waste management contractors to ensure operational efficiency and cost control.

Well Planning & Performance Improvement

- Contribute to well planning by defining fluids and cementing requirements.
- Analyze offset well data and capture lessons learned.
- Evaluate and implement new technologies, chemicals, or operational practices to improve well delivery.

Contract & Cost Control

- Monitor contractor performance against KPIs and contractual obligations.
- Support technical and commercial evaluations during tender processes.
- Ensure proper management of chemical stocks and logistics to avoid operational disruption.

Profile & Requirements

- Engineering degree (Mechanical, Chemical, Petroleum Engineering or equivalent).
- Minimum 15 years' experience in drilling fluids.

- At least 5 years of rig site experience (Mud Engineer and/or Cementing Engineer).
- 3-5 years' experience in a supervisory role for an operator.
- Experience with onshore operations and Water-Based Mud (WBM) systems.
- Strong knowledge of drilling operations, fluids rheology, solids control, and cementing engineering.
- IWCF Well Control - Supervisor Level 4 (or ability to obtain).
- Medically fit for rotational onshore assignments and frequent field visits.

Competencies

- Strong leadership and contractor management skills.
- Structured decision-making and problem-solving approach.
- Results-driven and proactive mindset.
- Comfortable working in multicultural environments.
- Fluent English required; French is an advantage.
- High standards of integrity and commitment to safety.