Offshore Drilling Safety Engineer Job Vacancy in Calabar, Nigeria – Oil & Gas Exploration

Job Description

Position: Offshore Drilling Safety Engineer

Company: Shell Petroleum Development Company

Location: Calabar, Nigeria

Experience: 5+ years in offshore drilling safety or related engineering roles

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Petroleum Engineering or related field

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Oil & Gas Exploration

Department: Engineering & Safety

Salary: SSP 3,500,000 – SSP 5,500,000 per annum

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Shell Petroleum Development Company is a global energy leader with a strong presence in Nigeria, delivering innovative solutions across the entire oil and gas value chain. With a commitment to safety, sustainability, and community development, Shell operates a network of offshore platforms, onshore facilities, and downstream assets that power the nation’s economy. As part of Shell’s strategic expansion in the Niger Delta, the Calabar hub serves as a critical gateway for offshore drilling activities, providing world‑class engineering expertise, cutting‑edge technology, and a culture of continuous improvement. Candidates joining Shell in Calabar will become part of a diverse, inclusive workforce that values professional growth, environmental stewardship, and the highest standards of operational excellence. This role contributes directly to Nigeria Jobs, offering a rewarding career path for engineers passionate about offshore safety and the future of energy in Africa.

Job Overview

The Offshore Drilling Safety Engineer will be responsible for ensuring the highest level of safety performance on Shell’s offshore drilling operations in the Gulf of Guinea. Reporting to the Senior Safety Manager, the incumbent will develop, implement, and monitor safety protocols, risk assessments, and compliance programs that align with international standards and Nigerian regulations. The role involves close collaboration with drilling engineers, rig crews, contractors, and regulatory bodies to mitigate hazards, conduct incident investigations, and drive safety culture initiatives. This position offers a unique opportunity to work on complex offshore projects, leverage advanced safety technologies, and contribute to Shell’s vision of safe and responsible energy production. For more information about career opportunities, visit our partner portal at https://nigeriajobsearch.com.

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Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain offshore drilling safety management systems, ensuring compliance with Shell Global Standards and Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) regulations.
• Conduct comprehensive hazard identification, risk assessments, and safety case reviews for all drilling activities.
• Lead pre‑job safety briefings, toolbox talks, and emergency response drills on offshore rigs.
• Monitor real‑time safety performance metrics, analyze trends, and implement corrective actions to reduce incident rates.
• Collaborate with drilling engineers to integrate safety considerations into well design, equipment selection, and operational procedures.
• Investigate incidents, near‑misses, and non‑conformances, producing detailed root‑cause analyses and action plans.
• Provide technical safety guidance to contractors, vendors, and third‑party service providers.
• Support the development of safety training programs and competency assessments for rig personnel.
• Prepare and present safety performance reports to senior management and regulatory authorities.
• Champion a proactive safety culture by promoting best practices, innovation, and continuous improvement across the offshore portfolio.

Required Skills

• In‑depth knowledge of offshore drilling operations, HSE regulations, and industry safety standards (e.g., ISO 45001, API RP 75).
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities with a data‑driven approach to safety performance.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for interfacing with multi‑disciplinary teams and external stakeholders.
• Proficiency in safety management software, incident reporting tools, and risk assessment methodologies.
• Ability to work in challenging offshore environments, including extended rotations on rigs.
• Leadership qualities with a proven track record of influencing safety culture positively.

Education

A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, Safety Engineering, or a related technical discipline is required. Professional certifications such as Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or NEBOSH International General Certificate are highly desirable.

Experience

Applicants must have at least five years of hands‑on experience in offshore drilling safety, safety engineering, or a comparable role within the oil and gas sector. Experience with Shell’s safety management frameworks or similar multinational energy companies will be considered an advantage.

Salary

The compensation package ranges from SSP 3,500,000 to SSP 5,500,000 per annum, commensurate with experience, qualifications, and performance. The package includes performance‑based bonuses, health insurance, pension contributions, and expatriate allowances where applicable.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health and life insurance coverage for employee and dependents.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching contributions.
• Annual performance bonus linked to safety and operational targets.
• Paid annual leave, sick leave, and parental leave in line with Nigerian labor law.
• Professional development budget for certifications, workshops, and conferences.
• Relocation assistance and accommodation support for offshore rotations.

Training

• Induction program covering Shell’s safety culture, policies, and offshore operational procedures.
• Advanced safety engineering workshops, including HAZOP, LOPA, and incident investigation techniques.
• Leadership and communication training to enhance stakeholder engagement.
• Continuous on‑the‑job coaching and mentorship from senior safety professionals.

Working Environment

The role involves a hybrid work setting, with office‑based activities in Calabar and periodic deployments to offshore rigs for inspections, audits, and emergency response drills. Candidates must be prepared for 14‑day offshore rotations, adhering to strict safety and fitness standards. Shell promotes a collaborative, inclusive workplace where diversity of thought drives innovation and safety excellence.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining relevant experience through Shell’s online career portal. Applications will be screened by the Talent Acquisition team, followed by a technical interview, competency assessment, and a final interview with the Senior Safety Manager. Shortlisted applicants will be contacted within two weeks of submission.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Shell Petroleum Development Company is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, race, religion, age, disability, or sexual orientation. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any protected characteristic.