Patterson-UTI Drilling

The New Standard for Drilling Performance
Drill safer, smarter and faster with Patterson-UTI Drilling's comprehensive fleet of pad-capable rigs featuring advanced walking systems to enhance your operations so you can reach your apex.

Patterson-UTI's Drilling Automation team is a growing group of energetic, passionate individuals working to improve our operations through automation. The Project Engineer will be responsible for the performance analysis and iterative improvement process of automated power system applications. The preferred candidate should understand power systems (generators, switchgear, etc.) and have a strong knowledge in controls and automation systems. This role will be the direct report to the Product Development Manager, and consistently collaborate with software developers, data scientists, and operations teams.

Some example projects that we are developing, testing, and deploying include:

• Lithium-ion battery energy storage systems
• Automated/Advisory generator management systems
• Utility (grid) power applications

The successful candidate will set high standards, demonstrate strong project management skills, be professional in written, verbal, and personal actions in any situation, and have an analytical mindset.

Detailed Description:

• Act as a technical advisor for functional specifications of power systems products; enhance products from existing ideas, expand on market requirements, and advance development based on industry research and the needs of customers
• Define test acceptance criteria and conduct adequate manual and simulated testing in a laboratory environment with a test and quality engineer
• Coordinate beta test programs, including rig selection, program alignment with internal and external stakeholders, software/hardware installation and commissioning, data export and analysis
• Work with data scientists to compile and analyze data from beta tests, be able to translate results to prepare recommendations for further testing or future development
• Oversee development of supporting technical documentation, including design specifications, test procedures, commissioning procedures, training materials, and technical presentations
• Travel to rigs to assist with new product installations and upgrades; assist with overall product launches

Job Requirements:

• Able to work both independently and as part of a team, managing multiple tasks and projects simultaneously to meet challenging deadlines
• Excellent analytical skills, able to think strategically and translate concepts into action plans and track results
• Able and willing to visit a drilling rig location on a semi-regular basis to gain subject matter knowledge
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Have excellent soft skills to gain rapport within the organization and seek out buy-in for our products

Minimum Qualifications

• A bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline
• 2+ years of experience in an engineering or related role

Preferred Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in the oil & gas drilling industry
• 2+ years of experience in controls and automation systems and/or power management systems
• 3+ years of experience in project engineering

Additional Details:

This position requires the person to be able to work in a time sensitive, high visibility role and regularly travel as needed to support business units and to visit work sites. It may also require extended travel to remote locations and/or overnight stay(s) during variable hours. Variable work hours include hours worked on the weekend, on holidays, and hours to travel within and outside of the assigned region. The Engineer must work with an emphasis on planning, multitasking, and prioritization to maximize efficiency of the team. Must be able to work closely with others and manage customer interaction in a professional manner. Ability to safely navigate work sites with occasional walking, climbing, standing, stepping, working at heights, etc., during normal operating conditions (day/night, outdoor hot/cold weather) and while utilizing designated personal protective equipment (PPE).