| Location | Houston, TX |
Job Summary
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.
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
Skills/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
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
Skills/Education 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
Understanding of Managed Pressure Drilling principles
Familiarity with flow test equipment; Pumps (centrifugal, hydraulic, triplex, etc) and 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
About Us:
Weatherford is a leading global energy services company. Our world-class experts partner with customers to optimize their resources and realize the full potential of their assets. Across our operating locations, including manufacturing, research and development, service, and training facilities, operators choose us for strategic solutions that add efficiency, flexibility, and responsibility to any energy operation.
When you join Weatherford, you instantly feel connected to something bigger - a community that is grounded by our core values and driven to create innovative solutions for our customers. We celebrate each other's successes, grow together, and learn from each other constantly. Individually, we are impressive. Together, we are unstoppable. We are One Weatherford.
Weatherford is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.
#LI-KP1