Drilling Operations Lead

Hybrid Remote • Houston, TX • Drilling Job TypeFull-timeDescriptionFervo is working to build the most cost-effective, repeatable geothermal power plants in the world. Delivering on this mission requires first-of-a-kind well designs, disciplined execution in the field, and continuous learning across the full well lifecycle. Joining Fervo’s Geoblock Factory organization means operating where subsurface innovation meets real-world execution, with safety, reliability, and capital efficiency as non-negotiables. We are seeking a Drilling Operations Lead who is excited by Fervo’s mission and motivated to lead a team of engineers and field personnel executing advanced geothermal drilling operations in a highly dynamic environment. This role is ideal for a leader with strong field instincts, deep drilling operations experience, and the ability to build and manage a high-performing team where standard oil and gas playbooks must be adapted—or reinvented—for geothermal applications. The Drilling Operations Lead is responsible for leading Fervo’s drilling operations team and overseeing daily execution across active rigs to ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective delivery of wells. The Drilling Operations Lead will manage and develop a team of field personnel, set operational priorities, and serve as the primary point of accountability for rig-site execution. RequirementsResponsibilitiesLead and manage a team of Drill-Site Managers (DSMs) and Field Superintendents across active drilling operations, setting priorities and providing day-to-day directionIn alignment with the Drilling Engineers, support real-time execution decisions on active rigs, coordinating recovery plans and technical reviews during NPT eventsEstablish and enforce HSE standards and practices across all rig sites, ensuring full compliance with company and regulatory requirementsDevelop, mentor, and grow team members’ technical and leadership capabilities, including career development planningDrive continuous improvement in well cycle time, cost, and performanceCoordinate with drilling contractors, service providers, and vendors to ensure resources and equipment support planned operationsServe as the primary escalation point for operational issues, resolving conflicts and driving cross-functional alignment with planning, supply chain, and engineering teamsLead post-well closeout reviews and ensure lessons learned are captured and implemented across the teamRepresent drilling operations in leadership reviews and communicate program status, risks, and resourcing needs QualificationsRequiredBachelor’s degree in engineering (or equivalent field experience)10+ years of experience in drilling engineering / operations, including experience leading field teams (minimum 5 years with an operator in US Onshore horizontal drilling)Prior experience leading or supervising Drilling OperationsAbility to demonstrate competency in core well engineering fundamentals, including casing design, directional drilling, drill string / BHA design, drilling fluids, cementing, and contingency planningExperience in risk assessment, well time / cost estimates, and planning complex drilling operationsExperience executing horizontal drilling in unconventional wellsExperience with supply chain and cost managementExcellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skillsStrong problem solver committed to continuous improvement and operational excellenceUnwavering commitment to protecting Health, Safety, and Environment in all aspects of design and operations Preferred Prior experience in a field leadership role overseeing multi-rig drilling operationsHands-on field experience across drilling, completions, and/or workover operationsExperience managing multiple rigs or crews concurrentlyExperience mentoring or developing early-career staff into leadership rolesExperience working on first-of-a-kind, non-standard, or technically complex well designs