The Rig Manager is responsible for the overall safe, efficient, and cost-effective operation of a drilling rig. This includes ensuring compliance with safety regulations, managing crew performance, overseeing drilling operations, and coordinating with company representatives and third-party service providers. The Rig Manager plays a key leadership role in maintaining operational excellence while upholding the highest safety and environmental standards.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Operations & Performance Management

• Oversee all drilling, workover, and maintenance operations on the rig.
• Ensure the rig operates within budget, schedule, and technical specifications.
• Monitor daily drilling reports, operational logs, and equipment performance.
• Optimize drilling efficiency while maintaining safety and procedural compliance.

2. Health, Safety & Environmental Compliance

• Enforce company HSE policies and industry best practices (API, OSHA, IADC, NEBOSH, ISO 45001, etc.).
• Conduct and participate in safety meetings, risk assessments, and incident investigations.
• Ensure PPE compliance and enforce safety protocols to prevent incidents.
• Maintain compliance with environmental protection measures and emergency response plans.

3. Crew Management & Leadership

• Supervise and manage rig personnel, contractors, and service providers.
• Assign duties and monitor crew performance to ensure high productivity and adherence to safety standards.
• Train and mentor rig crews to improve skills and knowledge.
• Ensure adequate manpower levels and shift coverage.

4. Equipment & Maintenance Oversight

• Ensure rig equipment, machinery, and drilling tools are properly maintained and inspected.
• Schedule and oversee preventive maintenance to minimize downtime.
• Coordinate with the maintenance team to resolve mechanical, hydraulic, or electrical issues.

5. Communication & Coordination

• Serve as the primary point of contact between the rig and corporate office.
• Liaise with company representatives, drilling engineers, and third-party vendors.
• Provide daily operation updates, incident reports, and performance analysis to management.

Skills

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field (preferred).
• Minimum 15+ years of experience in drilling operations, with at least 3 years in a rig management role.
• Strong background in land or offshore drilling operations.
• Experience working with different rig types (jack-up, semi-submersible, land rigs, deepwater, etc.).
• Saudi or GCC experience

Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of drilling programs, well control, and rig maintenance.
• Expertise in HSE protocols, risk assessment, and incident investigation.
• Ability to lead, train, and motivate teams in high-risk environments.
• Effective problem-solving, decision-making, and crisis management skills.
• Certifications (Preferred):

IWCF or IADC Well Control Certification

✔ H2S Awareness & Safety Certification

✔ BOSIET/HUET Certification (for offshore operations)

✔ NEBOSH or OSHA Safety Certification

• ✔ First Aid & Firefighting Training