Lab Technician - Managed Pressure Drilling Flow Loop

The Flow Loop Mechanical Lab Technician (MPD) supports engineering and product line teams by conducting development testing by operating specialized flow loop systems, high pressure/high temperature (HPHT) systems, and other test systems that simulate operating conditions for various oil field tools.  This role focuses on evaluating managed pressure drilling (MPD) equipment performance, testing fluid behavior under dynamically controlled pressure conditions representative of real drilling operations and maintenance test facility.

Testing Operations 

Flow loop operation and testing

Set up, assemble, and execute test programs for Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) systems and oilfield drilling and completion tools.

Operate, and monitor MPD flow loop systems designed to simulate drilling conditions (surface back pressure (SBP), standpipe pressure (SPP), and pressure control scenarios)

Conduct validation testing of MPD equipment (chokes, flow meters, pressure sensors, control systems)

Perform functional testing of instrumentation and control systems

High pressure/High Temperature Testing

Set up, assemble, and execute test programs for various downhole and completion tools

Assist engineering with troubleshooting and evaluation of potential failure modes

Test Rig operation and support

Assist in setup and operations for various drilling and intervention tools on the WFT test rig

Support engineering with test execution, troubleshooting, and performance evaluations

Data Acquisition & Reporting

Collect, record, and monitor real-time test data using various data acquisition systems (PLCs, LabVIEW, Siemens-based systems, Canary Labs)

Assist in analyzing pressure dynamics and system behavior during testing

Export and compile test data for logs, test reports, and technical summaries

Equipment Maintenance & Troubleshooting

Inspect, calibrate, and maintain high pressure flow loops, pumps, valves, and instrumentation

Troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, and instrumentation issues

Conduct preventative maintenance on equipment to ensure proper operation and maximize equipment longevity

Perform and/or assist with assembly, modification, and upgrades of test systems

Ensure tools, test equipment, and materials are maintained and stored properly

Lab Operations & Facility Support

Maintain flow loop and lab cleanliness, organization, and housekeeping (including 5S/lean practices)

Manage test equipment inventory and material handling (Forklifts, Hoists, Mobile Crane Unit, etc.)

Perform routine equipment checks before and after testing

Support continuous improvement of processes and procedures

Perform various other duties and activities assigned by supervisor within the physical constraints of the job

High School Diploma or equivalent

2-5+ years of related experience in any of the following:

Electrical/mechanical assembly

Flow loop operations

API R&D Design Validation Testing

Mechanical aptitude with knowledge of electrical, AC/DC circuits, and electro/mechanical devices

Mechanical and electrical troubleshooting

Proficient with measuring instruments/devices (e.g. tapes, gauges, micrometer, callipers, etc.)

Proficient with basic hand tools (wrenches (pipe, chain, spanner), sledgehammers, screw drivers)

Familiarity with instrumentation and measurement devices (Flow, pressure, temperature, etc.)

Experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook

Strong English communication skills (written, verbal and reading comprehension)

Time management skills 

Ability to lift approximately 25-50 lbs

Ability to work in indoor/outdoor environments and varying conditions

 

Associate degree or technical certification in: Petroleum Technology; Mechanical Engineering Technology; Electrical Engineering Technology; Process/Instrumentation Technology or equivalent practical experience

Experience in oil and gas industry or industrial environment

Operations/field experience in oil and gas

Drilling, well control, high-pressure systems or MPD related environments 

Experience with MPD systems or drilling simulators 

Downhole tools experience

Understanding of Managed Pressure Drilling principles

Familiarity with flow test equipment; Pumps (centrifugal, hydraulic, triplex, etc) and Flow hoses and connections (flanged, hammer union, etc.)

Ability to read and interpret P&IDs, wiring schematics, hydraulic/flow schematics, mechanical drawings and assembly instructions

Knowledge of high pressure/high temperature testing

 

 

Weatherford is a leading global energy services company. Our world-class experts partner with customers to optimize their resources and realize the full potential of their assets. Across our operating locations, including manufacturing, research and development, service, and training facilities, operators choose us for strategic solutions that add efficiency, flexibility, and responsibility to any energy operation.

When you join Weatherford, you instantly feel connected to something bigger – a community that is grounded by our core values and driven to create innovative solutions for our customers. We celebrate each other’s successes, grow together, and learn from each other constantly. Individually, we are impressive. Together, we are unstoppable. We are One Weatherford.

Weatherford is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

 

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