Upstream Our client is looking for 4 MPD Supervisor – Unconventional Operations, for a long term job in Argentina.
The MPD Supervisor is responsible for planning, coordinating, and supervising Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) operations on unconventional drilling projects. The role ensures the safe, efficient, and compliant execution of MPD activities while providing technical leadership to field personnel and acting as the primary interface between the client, drilling contractor, and service teams. The supervisor is accountable for maintaining wellbore pressure control, optimizing drilling performance, and ensuring all MPD equipment and personnel operate to the highest HSE and operational standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Supervise all MPD operations throughout the drilling campaign, ensuring safe and efficient execution.
- Lead MPD crews during rig-up, commissioning, drilling, tripping, cementing, and rig-down activities.
- Ensure MPD systems are configured, tested, and operated in accordance with company procedures and client well programs.
- Monitor real-time drilling parameters and wellbore pressures to maintain the operating window and respond to abnormal conditions.
- Coordinate with the Company Representative, Drilling Supervisor, Directional Drillers, Mud Engineers, and Rig Contractor to optimize drilling performance.
- Provide technical guidance during connections, pressure management, managed connections, and contingency or well control situations.
- Conduct pre-job planning meetings, toolbox talks, risk assessments, and daily operational briefings.
- Ensure compliance with company HSE policies, client requirements, industry standards, and regulatory requirements.
- Supervise preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of MPD equipment.
- Review and approve operational reports, daily logs, incident reports, and equipment maintenance records.
- Mentor and develop MPD Specialists, Choke Operators, and junior field personnel.
- Support operational improvements by identifying efficiencies and implementing best practices.
Qualifications & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or equivalent field experience.
- Extensive experience in Managed Pressure Drilling operations, including supervisory responsibilities.
- Demonstrated experience on unconventional drilling projects (shale, tight gas, CBM, or multi-well pad operations).
- Strong understanding of drilling hydraulics, pressure management, well control, and MPD equipment.
- Valid IWCF or IADC Well Control certification (Supervisor level preferred).
- Experience with automated MPD control systems and real-time drilling data analysis.
- Proven leadership, planning, and client relationship management skills.
- Excellent communication, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
- Willingness to work rotational schedules in remote field locations.
Preferred Competencies
- Expertise in Constant Bottom Hole Pressure (CBHP), Pressurized Mud Cap Drilling (PMCD), and other MPD techniques.
- Experience supporting extended-reach, horizontal, and high-rate unconventional wells.
- Knowledge of drilling optimization, lost circulation mitigation, and narrow pressure window management.
- Familiarity with industry standards and recommended practices, including API and IADC guidance for MPD operations.
- Strong safety leadership and commitment to operational excellence.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Safe execution of MPD operations with zero HSE incidents.
- Compliance with approved operating procedures and client requirements.
- Achievement of drilling performance objectives while maintaining well integrity.
- Equipment reliability and operational readiness.
- Accurate operational reporting and effective crew leadership.
- Positive client feedback and successful delivery of project objectives.
Benefit of Working with Visuna?
- A dedicated member of the team responsible for your placements and welfare
- Some of the best day rates in the industry
- FREE worldwide insurance and Medevac cover whist on a Placement
- 24/7 access to our specialist support team
- Assistance and advice on a range of business topics
- FREE access to our Competency Scheme
- Increased exposure to potential clients and more placement opportunities