INTRODUCTION
Job Title: Drilling Engineer 2
Name: Steve Osborne
Company Overview: Steve Osborne works as a Drilling Engineer with Husky Energy, where he thrives on the diverse technical demands and high-pressure problem-solving required in the oil and gas sector. Steve finds motivation in leading complex projects and solving challenges.
Job Overview
Steve’s daily tasks include reviewing operations, optimizing performance, managing costs, planning upcoming work, and designing wells in detail. His schedule differs between onshore and offshore work; onshore, he typically works 10 hours per day, while offshore rotations often extend to 16-hour days for three weeks at a time, followed by three weeks off. Offshore responsibilities include supervising operations, planning in the field, and documenting project outcomes. Steve contends with varying environmental conditions such as fog, heavy seas, and high winds, which necessitate a strong commitment to safety. His current position focuses on well planning for Husky’s East Coast operations, but he foresees potential opportunities to transition to a leadership role in well planning, move into completions, or even explore international projects.
Career Path
Steve earned his Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering from Memorial University, where courses in math, physics, and English helped prepare him for the technical and communication demands of his career. He completed multiple university work terms, including roles in pipeline maintenance in Saskatchewan, HSEQ operations with the C-NLOPB, and two placements within Husky Energy’s Drilling Group, leading to his current position. His career progression began with two years in an onshore role, followed by an offshore rotation. Steve hopes to further develop his expertise in well planning and is considering future assignments abroad.
Day in the Life
Steve’s lifestyle and work environment vary between his onshore office-based duties and the offshore rotation. His onshore role involves technical and strategic planning within a 10-minute commute. Offshore, the physical environment presents added challenges, from variable weather and seas to the continual movement of the rig. Working in the oil industry has shown Steve the importance of a vigilant, safety-focused approach, especially in offshore settings where the heavy machinery and unpredictable conditions require heightened awareness.
Skills and Tools
Technical Skills: Operations review, cost management, well design, field supervision.
Soft Skills: Objective decision-making, problem-solving under pressure, teamwork, and safety awareness.
Tools Used: Drilling and well-planning software, offshore rig equipment, and cost-control systems.