Drilling Superintendent - Abidjan

Oil & Gas – Drilling Operations – Côte d'Ivoire (Onshore)

Remit: Lead and be accountable, from the onshore base in Abidjan, for the safe, efficient and cost-effective delivery of a one-well drilling campaign on a jack-up rig, from preparation and mobilization through to well delivery and demobilization, in line with the Client's drilling program, HSE standards and budget.

Context & Environment

Our client, an oil and gas operator, is preparing a short drilling campaign of one well in Côte d'Ivoire, using a jack-up rig. The Drilling Superintendent is an onshore position: he/she will join shortly, working remotely during the preparation phase with regular Microsoft Teams meetings, then working in-country from Abidjan when required. Spud is expected around mid-Q2 2027.

Main Responsibilities

Well Planning & Preparation

• Review and finalize the drilling program, well design and operational procedures with the Client's technical teams

• Prepare and follow the campaign schedule and mobilization plan, including rig, equipment, materials, services and logistics

• Verify rig suitability and the site-specific assessment for the jack-up, including positioning, preload and leg penetration aspects

• Prepare contingency plans, risk assessments and MOC, and organize pre-spud readiness reviews

Operations Execution

• Oversee drilling operations from the onshore base, ensuring compliance with the drilling program, well control policy and operating procedures

• Direct the Company Representatives / Drilling Supervisors on the rig and ensure 24-hour operational coverage

• Make timely technical decisions to optimize performance, manage non-productive time and resolve operational issues

• Ensure well integrity and strict application of well control barriers throughout the campaign

Contractor & Stakeholder Management

• Manage the interface with the rig contractor and all service companies, and monitor contract performance

• Coordinate with the Client's management, partners, local authorities and supply base on operational and regulatory requirements

• Ensure effective communication between the offshore team, the onshore support team and the Client

HSE & Compliance

• Promote and enforce a strong HSE culture across the rig and onshore teams, including audit follow-up and incident investigation

• Ensure compliance with applicable regulations, Client standards and industry best practices

Cost Control & Reporting

• Track costs against the AFE / budget and report variances and forecasts

• Issue daily, weekly and end-of-well reports and capture lessons learned

• Ensure a safe and orderly demobilization and handover of well data and documentation

Candidate Profile