Senior Project Manager

Houston, United States | Posted on 06/25/2026

Kerndell delivers expert technical staffing, staff augmentation, auditing, and quality assurance for the oil, gas & energy sector.

We’re seeking an experienced Upstream Drilling and Completions (D&C) QA/QC Senior Project Manager to join Kerndell and support our client’s third‑party inspection (TPI) needs.

This is an office‑based role. The Upstream QA/QC Senior Project Manager is responsible for the operational execution of our client’s quality program, acting as the central operational hub between our client, the field‑based upstream D&C QA/QC Technicians, and the client’s suppliers.

• Quality Management Leadership:
  • Develop and implement the D&C Quality Plan aligned with client and industry requirements, standards, and best practices (DS-1, API Q1/Q2, ISO 9001:2015, etc.).
  • Lead and mentor QA/QC Technicians assigned to provide TPI surveillance of the manufacturing, inspection, assembly, testing, and loadout (as applicable) of downhole drilling and completions equipment.
  • Drive a “Right First Time” quality culture.
• Drilling & Completions Quality Planning:
  • Define quality assurance and control strategies for key D&C activities.
  • Develop Inspection and Test Plans (ITPs) and Quality Control Plans (QCPs) as required.
  • Ensure QA/QC requirements are embedded in D&C programs, service contracts, and procurement specifications.
• Field QA/QC Technician Execution:
  • Supervise and coordinate QA/QC Technician visits of supplier locations.
  • Facilitate resolutions to discrepancies found by QA/QC Technicians during supplier visits.
  • Ensure QA/QC Technician job reporting meets client and Kerndell requirements.
• Non‑Conformance and Corrective Action Management:
  • Manage non‑conformance reports (NCRs).
  • When necessary, contribute to root cause failure investigations, ensure corrective/preventive actions are implemented and tracked, and that lessons learned are captured and disseminated.
• Performance Monitoring and Reporting:
  • Assist in the development, tracking, and reporting of program Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
  • Present quality performance summaries to client management.
  • Proactively promote and reinforce a strong safety culture at all times.

• Proficiency in:
  • Nondestructive examination and testing (NDE/NDT) methods for downhole D&C equipment such as magnetic particle (MT), liquid penetrant (PT), and ultrasonic testing (UT).
  • Relevant industry standards, including DS-1 Volumes 3–5, ISO 9001:2015, API standards (Q1/Q2), DNV 2.7‑1, and ASNT practices.
  • Quality auditing specifications, processes, and techniques.
• Minimum of 5 years of direct experience as an Upstream QA/QC Project Manager, responsible for the operational execution of D&C quality programs.
• Demonstrated success managing clients, QA/QC Technicians, and quality programs.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.

Kerndell offers a comprehensive benefits package that supports your health, financial security, and overall well‑being. Employees enjoy medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with HSA and FSA options. We provide employer‑paid Group Life and AD&D insurance, plus access to voluntary plans such as supplemental life, accident, and critical illness coverage. Our team members receive three weeks of PTO to start and nine paid holidays each year.

Kerndell also offers a 401(k) retirement plan and access to Insperity’s employee portal for pay, benefits, and resources.