Drilling Engineer

Introduction

Headquartered in Reno, NV, Ormat designs, develops, builds, owns and operates geothermal and recovered energy-based power plants in the US and worldwide. With a spotless international reputation, we’re on track to become a leading global provider of renewable energy.

We take pride in our family-oriented business building practical green energy solutions from the ground up.

Join a team that’s giving new life to the future of our planet.

Overview

This position supports the planning and coordination of safe, efficient drilling and workover operations. It is a lifecycle well engineering role supporting drilling activities across the Concept Select, Define, and Delivery stages of Ormat’s Well Delivery Process, with occasional support for workover operations.

Responsibilities include assisting in the development of engineering design documentation and operational programs, supporting regulatory approvals, maintaining well data and reports, and contributing to cost tracking and budget updates. The role supports real-time operations, assists in troubleshooting, and contributes to capturing results and lessons learned while developing proficiency in engineering tools (e.g., RimBase) and building foundational well engineering capability.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including project managers, geologists, reservoir engineers, drilling personnel, procurement, and permitting teams.
• Assist in the preparation of well programs, procedures, and operational plans.
• Support engineering analysis (e.g., hydraulics, torque & drag, casing, cementing) to ensure safe and efficient operations.
• Participate in pre-spud planning, risk identification, and contingency development.
• Monitor drilling operations and provide support in tracking performance, costs, and daily activities.
• Track drilling costs, support invoice review, and maintain accurate cost reporting.
• Support troubleshooting of operational issues in coordination with field teams and service providers.
• Contribute to post-well reviews by compiling data, identifying trends, and documenting lessons learned.
• Maintain well files, reports, and data systems to ensure accuracy and accessibility.
• Utilize drilling software and tools (e.g., RimBase, dashboards) to support planning and reporting.
• Support contract management activities including tracking performance and delivery of service providers.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
• Communicate results and recommendations clearly to team members and supervisors.
• Build foundational understanding of drilling engineering principles and well delivery processes.
• Develop and continue ownership of discrete tasks or well components.
• Other duties as assigned by management.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering required.
• Relevant experience in drilling engineering or related field preferred.
• Exposure to well planning, design, or field operations is preferred.
• Basic understanding of drilling engineering fundamentals (e.g., well design, hydraulics, casing, cementing) with a willingness to develop technical capability.
• Ability to identify issues and support problem-solving efforts with guidance from more experienced engineers.
• Strong organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with periods of high operational activity.
• Demonstrated willingness to communicate proactively, including direct verbal communication (phone/Teams) to resolve issues quickly.
• Demonstrate a proactive learning mindset and willingness to ask questions.
• Ability to ask questions, seek clarification, and escalation concerns in a timely and effective manner.
• Ability to identify risks and propose solutions with guidance.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly document work and share information across teams.
• Proficiency in standard business software (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and willingness to learn drilling engineering tools and systems (e.g., RimBase).
• Exposure to industry software (e.g., Landmark WellPlan, WellCAT) is a plus.
• Well Control certification (IWCF or IADC) is a plus
• Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally, including occasional weekend and holiday support.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license with a driving record acceptable to ORMAT’s Safe Driving policy.
• Must be able to communicate effectively in English to safely and efficiently perform job duties.

Physical Requirements

• The ability to navigate and work in remote field locations and work outdoors in difficult weather conditions.
• The ability to walk, hike, and work on steep, rough terrain for extended periods of time on occasion.
• Must be able to work in plant/drilling operating areas including exposure to noise, vibrations, heat and cold.
• Must be able to wear any required protective equipment, as required by safety procedures and regulations.

Nearest Major Market: Reno

Nearest Secondary Market: Tahoe