JOBS ADVERTSEMENT

Mitchell Drilling International is a diverse drilling services Company dedicated to safe, efficient and innovative Drilling program delivery for mining projects. As we expand our footprint throughout Africa we are looking to fill the following positions that will be based in Rwanda.

All candidates must have a sound knowledge of Diamond Drilling Surface Core Methods, Reverse Circulation Drilling Methods, Deep Hole Drilling Methods, Mud rotation operator – LDD, Large diameter drilling and Blast Hole Drilling.

Knowledge of drilling equipment such as Sandvik UDR 1500 Drill Rig’s and Sandvik DE 710’s is an added advantage.

DRILL RIG OPERATOR/ SENIOR DRILLER (1 position)

Reporting relationship

The Drill Rig Operator reports to the Head Drill Rig Mechanic (Supervisor), then to the Site Manager or Deputy Site Manager (Rotation).

Job summary / overview

The Senior Driller / Drill Rig Operator is the primary on-site supervisor responsible for leading the drilling crew and overseeing daily operations. S/he manages drilling programs, collect and report data, and ensure safe and efficient drilling operations. The role includes operating and maintaining drilling rigs, troubleshooting equipment, and conducting routine maintenance. The Senior Driller also provides field training, evaluates contractor performance, investigates incidents, and supports senior management in tendering and project planning. S/he ensures compliance with safety, environmental regulations, and operational standards while supervising junior crew members and ensuring the smooth movement of equipment on the rig.

Role & position responsibilities (Duties and Functions)

Drilling Operations

• Operate drilling rigs safely and efficiently, ensuring compliance with safety standards and project goals.
• Adjust rig settings to optimize performance, monitor drilling parameters, and ensure accurate drilling.
• Follow approved drilling plans, safety procedures, and environmental regulations.

Equipment Monitoring and Maintenance

• Conduct daily pre-start inspections and routine maintenance on drilling equipment.
• Monitor equipment performance and track parameters such as depth, pressure, and speed.
• Diagnose and resolve mechanical issues promptly to minimize downtime.
• Ensure preventative maintenance is applied to all equipment, ensuring smooth operations.

Rig Setup and Transportation

• Assemble, dismantle, and transport rigs to new drill sites while ensuring proper functionality.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free site.

Team Collaboration and Reporting

• Work closely with the drilling crew, supervisors, and engineers to address technical challenges.
• Maintain accurate records of operations, equipment usage, maintenance, and daily reports.
• Report any equipment malfunctions, safety concerns, or operational challenges immediately to supervisors.

Training and Development

• Orient junior drillers and trainees on job requirements, safety standards, and company procedures.
• Evaluate the performance of drill rig operators and provide feedback for career development.

Workshop and Facility Management

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the site workshop, ensuring safety and availability of equipment and personnel.
• Implement Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) systems to maintain operational standards.

Drilling Fluids and Materials Preparation

• Prepare drilling fluids, muds, chemicals, and cement as required for specific drilling projects.

Required Education, Work experience, Qualities and Skills 

• A university degree with 5 years of drilling experience, including 3 years as a drilling/mining site supervisor, or have a drilling certificate from a recognized institute, with traceable references or alternatively, more than 10 years of experience as a drilling operator, including previous roles as drilling assistant or drill worker, etc.
• A High school diploma or specialized training in drilling, along with 5+ years of experience in complex drilling operations.
• Proven track record in rotary and diamond/Lithium core drilling, including experience operating specific types of rigs (DD or RC).
• Valid driver's license with a clean record.
• Strong communication, client relations, and project management skills, with the ability to work in various environments and manage complex drilling projects.
• Mechanical ability and technical training in mechanical engineering, geology, hydraulics, or related fields is an asset.
• Experience in implementing and maintaining high-level drilling strategies.
• Proficiency in operating and maintaining drilling equipment.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Awareness of safety protocols and ability to manage high-risk situations.

Work environment and physical requirements 

• Flexible schedule to work out of town regularly, including 12-hour shifts for 1 to 3 weeks in the field.
• Ability to perform manual labor and work outdoors year-round.
• Physically fit and healthy!
• Understanding of geological information and drilling techniques.

Interested and qualified applicants should email their application to: recruitmentbw@mitchellgroup.net  Applicants should include (1) an application cover letter outlining their motivation for applying, (Address a letter to the Regional Human Resources Manager) (2) CV addressing the specific requirements given above all (3) relevant qualifications (Educational awards i.e. Degree, Diploma or / Certificates), and (4) provide professional & traceable references. Please, ensure that the position you are applying for is captured as the email subject for ease of reference.

Only shortlisted applicants will be responded to. All candidates should be free of encumbrances.

Note: The deadline for applications: January 01, 2025, 11:59 pm.

The Management of Mitchell Drilling International