Operations Supervisor; Downhole Tools Manufacturing and Services

Job Summary

The Operations Supervisor is responsible for managing machining and welding activities related to the manufacturing and refurbishment of downhole drilling tools. The role ensures compliance with strict oil & gas industry standards (API Q1, API Spec 7‑1), maintains high‑precision tolerances, and drives safe, efficient, and quality‑focused operations.

• Production & Operations Management
  • Supervise daily machining and welding operations for downhole tools (mills, PDC bits, stabilizers, subs, etc.)
  • Plan and schedule jobs based on priorities, delivery deadlines, and machine capacity
  • Optimize workflow for CNC machines (turning, milling, deep hole drilling, threading)
  • Coordinate with design, QA/QC, and supply chain teams
• Technical & Process Control
  • Interpret complex engineering drawings and API thread specifications (REG, IF, NC)
  • Oversee precision machining of high‑strength alloy steels and non‑magnetic materials
  • Supervise welding processes including hardfacing, carbide welding, PDC bit repairs, and fabrication
  • Ensure compliance with AWS welding standards
  • Approve machining setups and tooling selection
• Quality Assurance & Compliance
  • Ensure compliance with API Spec 7‑1 and API Q1
  • Monitor dimensional tolerances, surface finish, and thread quality
  • Coordinate NDT activities (MPI, DPI)
  • Review inspection reports and manage NCRs and corrective actions
• Health, Safety & Environment (HSE)
  • Enforce strict HSE policies
  • Conduct risk assessments, toolbox talks, and safety audits
  • Ensure safe handling of heavy components and hazardous materials
  • Investigate incidents and implement preventive actions
• Team Leadership & Development
  • Supervise machinists, CNC operators, welders, and technicians
  • Provide technical guidance and training on API standards and best practices
  • Conduct performance evaluations and manage productivity
• Equipment & Maintenance
  • Oversee maintenance of CNC, deep hole drilling, threading, and welding equipment
  • Ensure calibration of measuring instruments
  • Coordinate preventive maintenance to reduce downtime
  • Improve tooling performance
• Materials & Inventory Control
  • Manage high‑grade materials (4145H mod, Inconel, non‑mag materials)
  • Monitor usage of cutting tools and welding consumables
  • Coordinate procurement of critical materials and spares
  • Reduce scrap and improve material utilization
• Documentation & Reporting
  • Maintain manufacturing records and material traceability
  • Ensure proper WPS and PQR documentation
  • Track KPIs (rejection rates, on‑time delivery, machine utilization)
  • Prepare reports for management and audits

• Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical / Manufacturing Engineering
• 7–12 years of experience in oil & gas downhole tools manufacturing
• Minimum 3–5 years in a supervisory role
• Strong knowledge of API standards for downhole tools
• Expertise in CNC machining, deep hole drilling, and threading
• Hands‑on experience in hardfacing and wear‑resistant coatings
• Familiarity with NDT methods and quality systems
• Strong leadership and decision‑making skills
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
• API Q1 / Q2 awareness or internal auditor certification
• Welding certifications (AWS CWI/CWS or CSWIP)
• NDT Level II (UT / MPI / DPI)
• ISO 9001 Quality Management System training