Upstream Position: Drilling Fluid Specialist
Location: Namibia
Start Date: 15 October 2026
Duration: 3–4 months
Work Location: Offshore
Rotation: 4 x 4
Contract Type: Contract
We are seeking an experienced Drilling Fluid Specialist to support offshore deepwater drilling operations in Namibia. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing and optimising drilling fluid systems throughout the drilling programme, ensuring safe, efficient and cost-effective operations.
The role will involve working closely with the Drilling, Wellsite, Mud Logging, Cementing and other well services teams to monitor drilling fluid performance and respond to changing downhole conditions.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage drilling fluid systems during offshore deepwater drilling operations.
- Monitor and maintain fluid properties in accordance with the drilling programme and operational requirements.
- Conduct regular testing and analysis of drilling fluids and make recommendations for treatment and adjustments.
- Monitor mud weights, rheology, filtration, solids control and other critical fluid properties.
- Provide technical advice and support to the drilling team on drilling fluid-related matters.
- Monitor and manage wellbore hydraulics and pressure conditions.
- Identify and troubleshoot drilling fluid-related problems, including losses, wellbore instability, contamination and hole-cleaning issues.
- Work closely with the Drilling Specialist and Offshore Installation Manager to ensure drilling fluid requirements are aligned with operational objectives.
- Maintain accurate records of drilling fluid properties, treatments, volumes and consumption.
- Monitor drilling fluid products and inventory and ensure sufficient materials are available offshore.
- Provide daily and end-of-well reporting as required.
- Ensure all drilling fluid activities are carried out in accordance with company HSE procedures and offshore operating standards.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives to optimise drilling performance and minimise fluid-related costs.
Experience & Qualifications
- Proven experience as a Drilling Fluid Specialist in offshore oil and gas operations.
- Previous experience working on deepwater drilling operations is essential.
- Experience with drilling fluid systems used in complex offshore wells.
- Strong understanding of drilling hydraulics, wellbore stability, hole cleaning and solids control.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary offshore drilling team.
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
- Good technical reporting and communication skills.
- Experience in Namibia or other African offshore operations would be advantageous.
Offshore Certifications
Candidates must hold valid:
- IWCF Level 4 Well Control – Drilling
- Offshore Survival / BOSIET or equivalent offshore safety certification
- Valid Offshore Medical Certificate
All certifications must be valid for the duration of the assignment or capable of being renewed before mobilisation.
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