What you need to perform it
Primary qualification
- Valid Driller-level well-control certification: IADC WellSharp (Driller) or IWCF Level 3, renewed every two years.
- Internal promotion up the drilling ladder (roughneck → derrickman → assistant driller) per the contractor's matrix (industry practice).
- OPITO BOSIET/FOET with CA-EBS and offshore medical; STCW A-VI/1 per flag. Not an STCW officer billet: industrial personnel under the MODU Code.
Basic STCW
- STCW A-VI/1 (4 basic modules)
- OPITO BOSIET current
Specific courses
- Drilling simulator and the installed control system (NOV/Cameron or vessel OEM)
- Kick and shut-in drills: pit drills, choke drills and stripping
- H2S safety and mud spaces; floor lifts and tubulars
- Permit to work, LOTO and drilling-package energy management
Indicative experience
Indicative: 5-8 years up the offshore drilling ladder, at least 2 as Assistant Driller, before the first Driller's chair; promotion requires simulator hours and contractor assessment.
Observations
The first line of well control: early detection and a correct shut-in are the critical human barrier against a blowout. Progression: Driller → Toolpusher (supervisor-level well control) → Senior Toolpusher/OIM.
What this role does
The well's direct operating authority on shift: runs top drive, drawworks and mud pumps from the doghouse chair, continuously watches influx indicators (pit gain, flow-back, pressures) and shuts the well in with the BOP if a kick is detected. Leads the drill-floor crew and answers to the Toolpusher for safe programme progress.
Typical watches
- 12 hour guards (Day/Night)
Key responsibilities
- Operation of the drilling console (Driller's Console).
- Control del hoisting system, rotary table y top drive.
- Continuous monitoring of well behavior (pressures, penetration rates).
- Immediate response to well control events (kick).
- Direction of the floormen team during maneuvers.
Operational scope
- Drilling console
- drill floor
- 24 hour rotating guards
Profile reviewed by HydroAbyss (2026). Cited rules and timeframes are indicative: the final requirement is set by the flag State, the Administration and each company.