Western Energy is hiring a Operations Manager, Drilling Services to join our team in our Leduc location!

The Operations Manager – Drilling Services is responsible for the leadership and oversight of Western Energy Services Corp’s drilling operations (Horizon and Stoneham Drilling) across both Canadian and U.S. regions. This role ensures safe, efficient, and high-performance delivery of our clients' drilling programs through the direct supervision of Field Superintendents, who work in coordination with Rig Managers.

Reporting directly to the President and CEO, the Operations Manager will play a critical role in driving operational excellence, executing strategic objectives, and ensuring the long-term profitability and sustainability of the drilling services division. This role will involve oversight, planning, execution, and continuous improvement of drilling projects, managing capital upgrade projects, and fostering a culture of safety, performance, and profitability. Additionally, the Operations Manager will be responsible for maintaining high-performance standards across the operation while managing relationships with clients.

Key Responsibilities: 

Leadership & Supervision:

• Supervise operational staff ensuring adherence to company policies, government regulations, and customer requirements. Provide guidance and support to field teams, fostering a positive, efficient, and safe work culture.
• Coach and mentor Field Superintendents to develop their leadership skills and promote continuous improvement within their teams.
• Set performance targets for rig teams and conduct regular evaluations. Ensure performance standards are met and communicated effectively to all team members.

Operational Efficiency:

• Work closely with field superintendents to develop effective and efficient execution of well plans, ensuring that rigs are properly maintained and operated according to company standards.
• Strive to improve cost-efficiency while maintaining the highest operational standards, ensuring that drilling projects stay within budget and meet quality expectations.
• Oversee the maintenance and inspection of drilling rigs and equipment, ensuring that all equipment is operating efficiently and meets certification requirements.
• Conduct periodic audits and inspections of rigs to maintain the highest operational standards and ensure compliance with company procedures.
• Maintain and manage client relationships by addressing concerns promptly and ensuring that contractual obligations are met to the highest standards.

Capital & Upgrade Projects Management:

• Lead the planning, execution, and management of capital projects and upgrades across drilling rigs and associated equipment.
• Work with cross-functional teams to ensure capital expenditures are aligned with strategic company goals, timelines, and budgetary constraints.
• Monitor and ensure the successful completion of capital projects, ensuring that projects are delivered on time, within scope, and under budget.
• Coordinate upgrade projects to improve operational efficiency and the technological capabilities of drilling rigs and related equipment.

Procurement Collaboration:

• Collaborate with the procurement team to ensure timely acquisition of necessary materials, equipment, and services for drilling operations, capital projects, and rig upgrades.
• Provide technical input for procurement processes, including evaluating suppliers, ensuring equipment meets operational requirements, and optimizing cost efficiency.

Specific Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• 15+ years drilling industry experience with at least 5 years in a progressively responsible management role. 
• In-depth knowledge of drilling operations, safety standards, and industry best practices. Familiarity with drilling equipment, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Ability to make well-informed, timely decisions under pressure and manage operations efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to work with others to achieve results
• Sound leadership, coaching and teambuilding skills.

Special Conditions of Employment

• Field and other office visits are required; must hold valid driver’s license and be able to meet site safety requirements
• Overtime and after-hours response will be required.
• Some travel will be required to attend client meetings and other site / office meetings.

We thank you for your interest, however only those candidates selected for interview will be contacted.

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