Senior Manager – Drilling Operations (EPC)

Title: Senior Manager – Drilling Operations (EPC) "Belong, Connect, Grow, with KBR! The KBR team of teams delivers future-forward science, technology and engineering solutions and mission-critical services that help governments and companies around the world accomplish their most important objectives, while also helping achieve their sustainability goals. KBR Sustainable Technology Solutions provides holistic and value-added solutions across the entire asset life cycle. These include world-class licensed process technologies, differentiated advisory services, deep technical domain expertise, energy transition solutions, high-end design and engineering capabilities, and smart solutions to optimize planned and operating assets." KBR is looking for Senior Manager – Drilling Operations (EPC) with Offshore project experience in MEGA EPC projects to be based in Abu Dhabi for PMC project.

Below is a professional Job Description (JD) for Senior Manager – Drilling Operations suitable for an oil & gas operator, drilling contractor, or national oil company. Job Title Senior Manager – Drilling Operations Department Drilling & Wells Operations Reports To Director / VP Drilling & Wells Job Location As per business requirements Job Purpose The Senior Manager - Drilling Operations is responsible for leading, planning, and managing all drilling activities to ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective execution of drilling programs. The role provides strategic direction for drilling operations, oversees well delivery performance, drives operational excellence, ensures regulatory compliance, and delivers wells in line with production and development objectives.

Operational Management Lead and oversee drilling operations for onshore and/or offshore assets. Develop and execute annual drilling plans, budgets, and resource requirements. Ensure drilling programs are completed safely, on schedule, and within approved budgets. Monitor drilling performance and implement continuous improvement initiatives. Optimize drilling processes to improve efficiency, reduce non-productive time (NPT), and lower operational costs. Review and approve drilling procedures, well designs, and operational programs. Health, Safety, Environment & Quality (HSEQ) Promote a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with company HSE policies. Ensure all drilling activities comply with local, international, and industry regulations. Lead incident investigations and implement corrective actions. Drive risk management initiatives, well control preparedness, and emergency response planning. Strategic Leadership Develop long-term drilling strategies aligned with corporate objectives. Identify opportunities for technology adoption and operational innovation. Support field development plans and reserve growth initiatives. Provide technical and operational expertise to executive leadership. Financial & Commercial Management Prepare and manage drilling budgets and cost forecasts. Monitor drilling expenditures and identify cost optimization opportunities. Review and approve contractor invoices, contracts, and procurement strategies. Participate in tender evaluations and contract negotiations. Stakeholder & Contractor Management Manage relationships with drilling contractors, service providers, and regulatory authorities. Coordinate with subsurface, production, reservoir, facilities, and project teams. Ensure contractor performance meets agreed KPIs and contractual requirements.

Leadership Lead and develop multidisciplinary drilling teams. Mentor drilling engineers, superintendents, and field personnel. Establish performance objectives and succession planning initiatives. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning.

Education Bachelor's Degree in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related Engineering discipline. Master's Degree is preferred. IWCF or IADC Well