Rig Manager - Land Rig
Job Purpose / Objective
The Rig Manager (Senior Toolpusher) is responsible for the overall management, supervision, and safe operation of a 1500 HP land drilling rig. This position has full authority over rig operations, personnel, equipment, and site activities to ensure drilling operations are executed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with the approved well program and contractual requirements.
The Rig Manager provides leadership to all rig personnel, ensures regulatory and safety compliance, manages operational performance, and serves as the primary on-site representative of the drilling contractor.
Key Accountabilities:
Leadership and Overall Rig Supervision
Provide overall leadership and direction for all rig personnel.
Ensure drilling operations are conducted safely, efficiently, and in accordance with the approved well program.
Supervise drill and maintenance rig crew members.
Establish clear lines of communication across all shifts and departments.
Safety, Compliance, and Risk Management
Demonstrate visible leadership in health, safety, and environmental performance.
Enforce strict adherence to all safety policies, procedures, and permit-to-work systems.
Exercise stop-work authority and support personnel who raise safety concerns.
Lead safety meetings, incident investigations, and hazard identification processes.
Ensure proper implementation of well-controlled standards and emergency response procedures.
Drilling Operations Oversight
Ensure drilling operations are executed in accordance with the approved well plan.
Review daily drilling parameters, performance data, and operational reports.
Monitor well-control readiness and ensure equipment is properly maintained and tested.
Support critical decision-making during abnormal well conditions or emergencies.
Equipment and Asset Management
Ensure all rig equipment is maintained in accordance with planned maintenance programs.
Coordinate with Chief Mechanic and Chief Electrician to schedule major maintenance and overhauls.
Oversee rig move planning, rig-up, and rig-down operations.
Ensure proper inspection and certification of hoisting equipment, pressure control equipment, and lifting gear.
Planning and Coordination
Coordinate daily and long-term operational planning.
Liaise with the Operator’s representative and third-party service providers.
Conduct pre-job planning meetings and risk assessments for major operations.
Ensure proper logistics coordination for materials, fuel, water, and waste management.
Review and approve work schedules to optimize efficiency and cost control.
Reporting and Documentation
Review and approve daily drilling reports and operational logs.
Maintain accurate records of operational performance, incidents, downtime, and maintenance.
Ensure proper documentation of well controlled drills and emergency exercises.
Provide regular operational updates to management and stakeholders.
Ensure accurate documentation during rig stacking, preservation, or reactivation.
Personnel Management and Development
Recruit, onboard, and mentor rig personnel were applicable.
Conduct performance evaluations and identify training needs.
Promote workforce development and succession planning.
Ensure compliance with work/rest schedules and fatigue management.
Address disciplinary matters in a fair and consistent manner.
Cost Control and Operational Efficiency
Monitor operational expenditures and promote cost-effective practices.
Optimize resource allocation to reduce waste and inefficiencies.
Identify opportunities for performance improvement and operational enhancement.
Support continuous improvement initiatives.
Health, Safety, and Environmental Responsibilities
Ensure all operations are conducted in a safe and environmentally responsible manner.
Lead emergency response coordination during well control events or site emergencies.
Ensure spill prevention and waste management practices are followed.
Promote a proactive safety culture throughout the rig.
Education and Qualifications
High school diploma or equivalent; technical or engineering qualification preferred.
Valid well control certification is appropriate for supervisory level (e.g., IWCF or IADC).
Extensive experience in drilling operations, including prior experience as a Driller.
Significant supervisory experience on land drilling rigs, preferably 1500 HP.
Strong understanding of drilling systems, well control principles, and rig equipment.
If you are interested in finding out more, please send your CV to info@liberaconsultants.com.