Wellsite / Coil Tubing Drilling Engineer (CTD / UBD / MPD)
Location: Middle East (Onshore)
Contract Type: Contractor - Rotational
Rotation: 28 days on / 28 days off
Project Duration: Long-term assignment (approx. 18 months)
Mobilisation: Immediate (subject to onboarding & compliance)
Overview
Performance Energy is supporting a major service company delivering a technically complex onshore gas storage drilling project in the Middle East. We are seeking experienced Wellsite / Coil Tubing Drilling Engineers to join a high-performing operational team working at the intersection of CTD, UBD, and MPD operations.
This role is suited to engineers who are comfortable operating in wellsite leadership positions, acting as the technical and operational interface between the service company, drilling crews, and the end client.
Role Purpose
The Wellsite / CTD Engineer will be responsible for leading and calling CTD operations in line with approved procedures, ensuring safe execution, real-time decision making, and effective communication across all stakeholders on location.
You will play a key role in:
Operational execution
Well flow analysis and modelling
Underbalanced drilling control
Coordination between drilling, geology, and service crews
Key Responsibilities
Act as the wellsite focal point between the CTD crew and the client representative
Call and execute CTD operations in accordance with SOPs and approved programs
Lead wellsite decision-making during drilling and contingency scenarios
Utilise Well Flow modelling software to analyse real-time well behaviour
Monitor and interpret:
Work closely with client geologists and drilling teams to identify fractures and optimise well objectives
Ensure compliance with HSE standards, operational procedures, and well control requirements
Provide accurate reporting and technical feedback throughout the operation
Technical Project Context
(Provided for clarity on complexity - not client-identifying)
Well Type: ERD gas storage wells
Environment: Onshore / desert operations
Drilling Method: Coil Tubing Drilling
CT Size: 2
•" CT
Profile:
Vertical section to approx. 11,000+ ft
Shoe track drill-outs
Extended laterals (~4,000+ ft)
Open-hole sidetracks (no whipstock)
Drilling System: Two-phase (Nitrogen & Water)
Operating Window: Tight UBD window requiring active flow control
Objective: Identify natural fractures and utilise subsurface formations for seasonal gas storage
Essential Experience
Proven experience in CTD operations, with exposure to UBD and/or MPD projects
Strong understanding of underbalanced drilling principles and packages
Hands-on experience using Well Flow modelling software
Prior experience in a wellsite leadership role (service company or operator side)
Ability to operate confidently in high-pressure, technically demanding environments
Preferred / Advantageous Background
Experience as a Field or Wellsite Drilling Engineer on MPD/UBD projects
Engineering background strongly preferred over purely operational CTD roles
Experience working in hot, remote, desert environments
Demonstrated ability to manage physical and operational demands of rig-based work
Certifications (Mandatory)
Additional Information
Rig-based role with rotational schedule
Visa, mobilisation, and logistics managed by Performance Energy and regional partners
Interview process will be highly technical and reference-driven
Why Performance Energy
We specialise in placing high-calibre technical professionals into complex energy projects across the Middle East. Our focus is long-term delivery, technical credibility, and ensuring both our clients and consultants are set up for success from day one.
