Senior Drilling Engineer

About the Company

KoBold builds AI models for mineral exploration and deploys those models — alongside our novel sensors — to guide decisions on KoBold-owned-and-operated exploration programs. KoBold has become the largest independent mineral exploration company and the largest exploration technology developer.

Responsibilities

• Lead hole design, drilling method selection, and rig specification for complex exploration drilling programs
• Develop comprehensive drilling execution plans including scope, cost estimates, schedules, and risk assessments
• Complete detailed engineering design for casing, torque and drag, directional drilling, and mud systems
• Perform root cause analysis on downhole failures
• Provide technical oversight of drilling operations to ensure adherence to safety and data collection objectives
• Manage contractor performance and procurement processes from RFP to bid evaluation
• Mentor junior drilling engineers
• Ensure compliance with regulatory, environmental, and permitting requirements

Requirements

• Undergraduate or Masters degree in Mechanical, Petroleum, Civil, Geological or Electrical engineering
• 7+ years of progressive experience in drilling engineering for oil and gas or mineral exploration
• Advanced knowledge of diamond core drilling operations
• Proficiency in hole design and analysis software tools
• Ability to work in remote and isolated locations for extended periods
• English fluency required; French fluency is a plus
• Valid First Aid Certification
• P.Eng. designation or equivalent professional registration

Preferred Qualifications

• Expert-level knowledge of drilling operations in Africa
• Experience working with interdisciplinary teams of Geologists and Data Scientists
• Experience with logistics for complex remote operations (helicopter, camps, etc.)
• Experience evaluating and introducing new drilling technologies