Introduction

Brunel is seeking experienced RCD/MPD Operators for short-term onshore drilling projects in Queensland. The role involves operating and maintaining Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) and Rotating Control Device (RCD) equipment while ensuring safe and efficient drilling operations.

What are you going to do 

The successful candidates will join a specialized drilling team supporting land rig operations in Queensland. The project involves installation, operation, monitoring, maintenance, and troubleshooting of RCD and MPD equipment throughout the drilling campaign.

Candidates with previous experience on Strata systems, MPD equipment, underbalanced drilling operations, or similar technologies will be highly regarded.

  • Rig up and rig down RCD and MPD equipment at onshore drilling locations.
  • Install, commission, and operate RCD systems in accordance with OEM procedures.
  • Monitor equipment performance during drilling, tripping, and intervention operations.
  • Maintain pressure containment throughout drilling activities.
  • Identify and respond to equipment issues, including seal failures, leakage, vibration, and operational abnormalities.
  • Participate in well control drills and emergency response activities.
  • Ensure compliance with site HSE requirements and industry best practices.

Inspection & Maintenance

  • Conduct pre-job, routine, and post-job inspections.
  • Perform maintenance on:
    • Bearings
    • RCD rubbers
    • Hydraulic Power Units (HPU)
    • Associated mechanical components
  • Identify wear and coordinate repairs or replacements.
  • Maintain accurate maintenance and inspection records.
  • Diagnose faults related to:
    • Rotating Control Devices
    • Hydraulic systems
    • Bearings and sealing elements
  • Implement corrective actions to minimise downtime.
  • Support MPD Supervisors with technical problem-solving in the field.

Reporting & Documentation

  • Complete daily operational reports.
  • Track equipment performance and maintenance activities.
  • Communicate equipment status and operational updates to site leadership.

Essential skills and knowledge

To be considered for this opportunity, you will possess:

  • Minimum 6+ years' experience in oilfield drilling operations.
  • Minimum 4+ years' experience in Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) and/or Underbalanced Drilling (UBD).
  • Hands-on experience operating Rotating Control Devices (RCDs).
  • Strong understanding of:
    • Managed Pressure Drilling
    • Well Control
    • Drilling Operations
    • Rig Equipment
  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, manuals, and P&IDs.
  • Strong troubleshooting and mechanical aptitude.
  • Current Medical Certificate.
  • Valid IWCF or IADC Well Control Certification.
  • High School Diploma or equivalent qualification.
  • Experience with Strata MPD systems.
  • Previous experience with leading oilfield service providers or specialist MPD contractors.
  • Experience working on Australian land rig operations.

What we offer 

  • Opportunity to work on high-profile Queensland gas drilling projects.
  • Exposure to advanced MPD and RCD technologies with a global industry leader.
  • Potential for ongoing project opportunities beyond the initial contract.

About Brunel:

Brunel is a recruitment and flexible workforce solution provider which connects talented people with opportunities throughout Australasia and around the world. We specialise in highly skilled roles across a variety of technical, professional, trades and craft disciplines, pairing candidates with industry-leading projects and organisations on a contract, permanent or secondment basis.

Operating in Australasia since 1997, Brunel has major bases of operation in Perth, Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Port Moresby, which are further backed by the strength and reach of a truly global network spanning over 45 countries, 120 offices and 50 years of successful operation.

Brunel is proud to be equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and female candidates.

Do you have questions?

If you have any questions or would like to discuss the details of this role, please contact <Sneha Poranki at p.sneha@brunel.net or +61 8 9429 5645>.

Closing: 06 December 2026

Apply Now

Are you the perfect match for this vacancy? Apply in 5 minutes and let's get in touch!

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Process of your application

Application process & contact

We will now begin examining your application: We will take a close look at your application documents and ask you for additional information if necessary. If your qualifications match our requirements, we will invite you to meet us for the first time.

Project discussion with our customer

If the introductory meeting goes well for you and us, we will arrange a meeting with the customer who has the perfect project for you. This gives you the opportunity to find out more about the customer and the project.

The decision

If you enjoyed the project discussion and the customer is also convinced of your expertise, we will ask you the final and decisive question: Do you want to get started at Brunel?

Introductory conversation with Brunel

In an introductory meeting, we would like to find out more about your interests, ambitions and professional developments. At the same time, we report on working at Brunel and provide information about all career opportunities and prospects.

Welcome to Brunel

Now great times are beginning! With Brunel you have countless opportunities to help shape technological progress. You decide how your career path goes. We support you in every phase of your career. You always have security behind you: Brunel!