Lab Technician II - Managed Pressure Drilling Flow Loop

Job Purpose

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.

Roles & Responsibilities

• 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

Experience & Education

REQUIRED

• 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

PREFERRED

• 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

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

REQUIRED

• 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

PREFERRED

• Understanding of Managed Pressure Drilling principles
• Familiarity with flow test equipment

o Pumps (centrifugal, hydraulic, triplex, etc)

o 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

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