Job Overview:
Weatherford is seeking an experienced Mechanical Design Engineer to join our Rod Lift Downhole Pumps team in Houston, TX. This is a hands-on, P3-level product engineering role where you''ll take full ownership of projects from concept through production release. You''ll work at the intersection of product design, manufacturing, and field performance, translating real-world challenges from demanding environments-like high-sand Permian Basin wells and corrosive, high-GOR applications-into durable, reliable engineering solutions for one of the world''s most widely deployed artificial lift methods.
Responsibilities:
Lead product design and development of rod lift downhole pump components including barrels, plungers, valve cages, seats, and peripheral hardware
Own the full product lifecycle from concept, design, and prototype through testing, production release, and sustaining support
Create detailed 3D models and 2D production drawings using PTC Creo Parametric, including BOMs and specifications with proper GD&T
Select appropriate materials for oilfield environments (alloy steels, hard coatings, elastomers) considering wear, corrosion, and pressure conditions
Conduct engineering analyses including tolerance stack-ups, stress calculations, FEA, and design verification testing
Collaborate cross-functionally with manufacturing, field service, sales, and applications teams to ensure producible, cost-effective designs that incorporate customer feedback
Manage multiple concurrent projects with minimal supervision, maintaining schedule, budget, and quality targets
Maintain engineering documentation in PDM/PLM systems with proper revision control and design traceability
Support failure analysis investigations and translate findings into corrective design actions
Ensure compliance with API 11AX and related standards
Skills Required:
Strong mechanical engineering fundamentals: statics, dynamics, materials, and fluid mechanics
Proficiency in PTC Creo Parametric or equivalent 3D CAD (SolidWorks, NX, CATIA)
Ability to design precision-machined components with proper GD&T for production
Working knowledge of fluid mechanics and positive displacement pump hydraulics
Clear written and verbal communication skills with ability to present technical content to diverse audiences
Strong project management abilities with capacity to deliver on time with minimal supervision
Qualifications Required:
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering or closely related field
5-8+ years of experience in oil & gas mechanical, design, or field engineering
Hands-on experience with rod lift downhole pumps (field, manufacturing, or product design)
Qualifications Preferred:
Direct experience with sucker rod pump components: barrels, plungers, valves, and couplings
Experience in the Permian Basin, Midcontinent, or other major rod lift producing regions
Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering or Professional Engineer (PE) license
Experience with FEA/structural simulation tools (ANSYS or equivalent)
Proficiency with PTC Windchill or equivalent PDM/PLM system
Experience designing welded structures and weld-joint specifications
Familiarity with API 11AX and related artificial lift standards
Knowledge of NACE MR0175 / sour service material requirements
Experience with failure analysis methodologies (8D, fishbone, FMEA)
Familiarity with oilfield artificial lift systems broadly (ESP, gas lift, plunger lift)
Experience providing field technical support or conducting field trials
Travel Requirement: Up to 10% annually
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