MPD Operator

Role Overview

This position primarily involves supporting the setup, operation, upkeep, and troubleshooting of Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) systems and associated equipment during onsite applications. The operator will guide the team in the management and function of MPD systems, including specialty riser joints, umbilical reels, control skids, manifolds, and related equipment. Tasks include deploying, retrieving, and testing MPD-related tools and ensuring all operations are safely conducted within equipment limits. Compliance with corporate, local, and client standards for well control equipment and practices is mandatory.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate MPD systems in various applications such as pressurized mud cap drilling and underbalanced drilling.
• Collaborate with operational teams to monitor well conditions and maintain operational parameters within influx management limits.
• Support drilling activities including connections, integrity tests, logging, and cementing during MPD sections.
• Compile daily progress reports and assist with comprehensive end-of-well documentation of MPD operations.
• Perform routine calculations related to MPD operations.
• Assist with installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of MPD equipment offshore, particularly for below tension ring applications.
• Help ensure preservation and lubrication of MPD equipment both in storage and in use.
• Participate in offsite drilling operation workshops, hazard identification sessions, and training exercises.
• Conduct maintenance and repairs on MPD and ancillary equipment, including preventive maintenance and thorough documentation within electronic systems.
• Coordinate procurement of MPD spare parts, tools, and materials through forward planning and purchase requests.
• Identify and address any safety-related design discrepancies.
• Review OEM bulletins and equipment alerts for regional applicability and implement necessary action plans.
• Ensure adherence to Noble’s Management of Change procedures when modifications are needed.
• Comply fully with health, safety, and environmental policies and procedures.
• Support project teams with managed pressure drilling equipment installation and commissioning.
• Oversee vendor progress on equipment construction and repair.
• Assist with other duties or projects as assigned, including operations on other vessels or regions during idle MPD periods and support rig crew with maintenance tasks.

Supervisory Scope

• No direct reports.
• Indirect supervision of rig-based subsea personnel.

Qualifications and Experience

• Minimum high school diploma or equivalent.
• At least 3 years of technical experience in managed pressure drilling and related support systems.
• Minimum 2 years of practical experience in MPD operations.
• Competency to operate below tension ring MPD systems.
• Familiarity with active and rotary control devices.
• Knowledge of hydraulic downhole modeling and current/future MPD technologies.
• Hands-on skills in hydraulic, mechanical, and electronic troubleshooting.
• Understanding of machinery and mechanical equipment function.
• Strong decision-making and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills with ability to work autonomously and collaboratively.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office suite.
• Possession of valid well control certification.
• Capability to travel approximately 100%, reflecting the offshore rotational nature of the role.