Sr. Operations Geologist - Southwest Business Unit

The Sr. Operations Geologist provides operational support in the evaluation and development of conventional and unconventional resource plays in Texas and New Mexico (Midland, Delaware and Maverick Basins). Must demonstrate a willingness to acquire and execute skills as an Sr. Operations Geologist integrated with other disciplines.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES/DUTIES:

• Geologic support of multi-rig development and exploration drilling program at the Asset Team level, including but not limited to:
  1. Pre-drill assessments, support creation of initial drill plans integrated with multi-discipline teams prior to spud
  2. Communicate with drilling personnel to effectively target intervals dictated by asset teams providing guidance and geological support as necessary (day or night)
  3. Monitor active drilling progress evaluating directional surveys/geologic data making directional changes in the lateral to stay in the geological target zone on long reach horizontal wells
  4. Coordination & integration of well site & office related geologic functions as necessary
  5. Provide support for lookback evaluations of lateral placement, assist in regulatory efforts as needed
  6. Post drill summary reports and evaluations for future operational efficiencies
  7. Interface and establish best practices with 3rd party 24-hour steering vendor
• Utilize a broad application of geological principles and theories in support of developing assets
• Create technically sound assessments of geologic applications associated with operational functions
• Assist in team efforts to identify, evaluate, and implement changes to increase operational efficiencies and reduce costs
• Provide technical guidance for drilling programs integrated with other disciplines
• Analyze log data, correlations, control points, and generate geologic maps
• Integrate/collaborate with other disciplines on geotechnical work including, but not limited to, data loading, data management, project building, and target optimizations projects
• Execute skills coordinating/integrating efficiencies in the field and office
• Conduct business with the highest ethical standards; demonstrate decision-making skills that ensure the safety of all persons associated with SM facilities
• Other duties as assigned

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Intermediate level of skills and familiarity with Microsoft Office
• Basic knowledge of, or willingness to learn and adapt to geological and geophysical computer software and applications.
• Experience with Petrel/Spotfire software desired.
• Knowledge of and proof of experience in geosteering horizontal wells with various Geosteering software – StarSteer preferred.
• Knowledge of geologic, drilling, and engineering procedures and terminology
• Analytical problem solving, and decision-making skills, error-free detailed work
• Strong written and verbal communication and presentation skills
• Self-motivated, organized, results driven
• Effective and efficient time management skills
• Team Player-willingness to integrate/collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams for a common goal
• Familiarity with the Permian Basin, Eagle Ford, and Austin Chalk a plus

EXPERIENCE/EDUCATION:

• Bachelor’s Degree in geology or geophysics/geoscience is required
• Combined 10- years of Wellsite and/or Office based Operations Geology work experience

OTHER: 

• Anticipate sporadic round the clock communications and problem solving with the asset & drilling teams.
• Anticipate “outside of office” hours in order to perform necessary duties while drilling laterals-dependent on rig activity and needed team support.

Schedule: Hybrid work schedule working one week in the office and the next week remote. Office weeks based in Denver or Houston (Denver is preferred), With occasional trips to Midland and associated field visits.

SM Energy offers competitive compensation and benefits programs which include, but are not limited to, variable pay, health care coverage, retirement plan, protection coverage, time off and leave programs, training and development opportunities and a range of allowances connected to specific work situations. Details are available at Careers :: SM Energy Company (SM) (sm-energy.com).

Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the position is filled.