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: December 06, 2026

Do you have any questions about this vacancy?

Vacancy reference: CR-307414

SP

Corporate recruiter

Sneha Poranki

+61 8 9429 5645

Contact

Anything else ?

Shape your future

Are you ready for the next step in your career? Join Brunel’s powerful global network, where passionate, results-driven specialists come together with industry-leading clients. By connecting specialists to pioneering projects, we drive change in many industries, enabling growth and delivering great outcomes. Brunel helps you reach your full potential and empowers you to make an impact within a purpose-driven global company.

Explore your career opportunities!

Our Culture and Values

At Brunel, we are proud of our unique corporate culture, which is shaped and nurtured by the collective efforts of our employees. Our work environment is characterised by an authentic, communicative and inclusive approach to teamwork that fosters an atmosphere of collaboration and creativity. Our values are at the center of everything we do – for our clients, our colleagues and ourselves.

Learn more about our global network of specialists!

Our ESG Commitment

Since 1975, our mission has always been to connect specialists to exciting career opportunities, to support the development of these careers, and to offer fair and equal employment. This has enabled us to create a truly sustainable and durable business model. Having a passion for people and caring deeply for the environment is not only part of Brunel’s DNA but is also reflected in our culture and values. As a global company, we take our social responsibility very seriously.

Join us on our mission!

Are you the perfect match for this vacancy? Apply in 1 minute and let's get in touch!

Are you in perfect match ?