The Liquid Mud Plant (LMP) QA/QC Specialist is responsible for the oversight of contractors providing the management and operation of the LMP and associated logistics within the field. In this role, the LMP QA/QC Specialist ensures that contractors are in compliance with Oxy’s directives related to the production, recycling, maintenance, and movement of drilling fluids within the Oxy LMP. Ensuring that the appropriate maintenance and operating procedures specific to both contractors and Oxy’s facility are being implemented is a key responsibility. This position serves as the primary point of contact between Oxy and the contractors managing the facility and those operating within and in support of it.
The Liquid Mud Plant QA/QC Specialist’s responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Ensuring that the contractor’s LMP HES Management Systems are in place and being followed, and that all operations at the LMP are conducted safely and in alignment with Oxy’s overarching HES expectations and policies.
Closely monitoring all costs associated with the operation of the LMP, including facility maintenance and upkeep, as well as the management, maintenance, and recycling of Oxy drilling fluids.
Ensuring the contractor meets all technical requirements related to testing, analysis, and treatment protocols necessary for the most efficient and cost-effective utilization of drilling fluids in the field and the operation of the LMP.
Closely monitoring the management of inventory moved into, out of, and utilized within the LMP. By tracking product utilization and associated costs, the LMP QA/QC Specialist ensures that Oxy receives appropriate value for money for the services provided.
Overseeing the management of stock levels at the LMP and ensuring optimal product availability to support drilling operations.
Overseeing the Liquid Mud Transport contractor’s management of their responsibilities in providing liquid mud transport throughout the various fields. By directly coordinating with respective rigs and transport contractor personnel, the LMP QA/QC Specialist ensures the most efficient utilization of resources.
Ensuring that LMP work schedules are optimal from both HES and operational perspectives.
Ensuring all preventive maintenance obligations prescribed by the LMP Operating Manual and facility-specific maintenance documentation are followed by the contractor managing the LMP.
Establishing and monitoring performance KPIs that measure contractor competency in the daily operation of the LMP and liquid mud transportation services.
Demonstrating excellent LMP-specific HES awareness and the ability to evaluate the competencies of LMP crews relative to their ability to operate the facility according to Oxy’s HES standards.
Overseeing the functioning of the LMP-based mud laboratory, ensuring activities are conducted safely and in accordance with API standards and Oxy’s specific requirements necessary to support drilling operations.
A Bachelor’s degree in engineering, science, or a relevant specialization.
Minimum of 10 years of experience in drilling fluids operations and services, including at least 3 years as a mud engineer on the rig.
Experienced and familiar with drilling fluids chemistry and theory, with the ability to conduct laboratory testing of drilling fluids and develop strategies within a Liquid Mud Plant to optimize drilling fluid formulation, blending, and recycling.
Must have a strong working knowledge of liquid mud tanks, solids control equipment, pneumatic tools, compressors, hydraulic systems, piping manifolds, valves, pumps, and associated fluid mixing equipment.
Understands the importance of spill control equipment and procedures, and plant safety standards.
Demonstrated ability to effectively interact with other departments, including rig-site Oxy DSMs and other contractor personnel.
Excellent speaking, writing, computer, and email communication skills.
