Job Description

The Fluids Plant Supervisor is responsible for the safe, compliant, and efficient operation of the Liquid Mud Plant (LMP) in Pemba, overseeing bulk material handling, drilling fluid blending and mixing, materials management, and the performance of Bulk Plant (BP) staff.

The role ensures full adherence to HSE and QMS requirements, supervises the transfer of drilling fluids to and from the LMP and vessels, and manages plant maintenance for LMP assets in support of drilling operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure 100% compliance with HSE and QMS requirements related to Bulk Plant operations and bulk material handling.
• Support HSE initiatives by collaborating with the CSO and HSE Specialist.
• Ensure bulk product blending and mixing procedures are completed accurately and that the QAQC process is strictly adhered to.
• Demonstrate a strong understanding of Materials Management principles.
• Work with the materials management team on cycle counts, balance, inventory levels, and documentation.
• Monitor the total cost of materials and implement cost-effective improvements.
• Demonstrate a strong understanding of HSE regulations related to Bulk Plants and bulk material handling.
• Follow the documented waste management plan, including ancillary items such as containers and pallets used for bulk material mixing and blending.
• Manage the performance, training, and development of Bulk Plant (BP) staff.
• Supervise drilling fluid mixing in the LMP.
• Supervise the drilling fluid transfer to and from the LMP and vessels.
• Ensure all QA/QC processes are strictly adhered to and records are properly maintained.
• Manage ACP plant maintenance for LMP assets.

HSE & Risk

• Chemical exposure – contact with drilling fluids and additives (barite, bentonite, caustic soda, polymers) causing skin, eye, or respiratory irritation.
• Pressurized equipment hazards – hose whip, pump failure, and mechanical injury during plant operations or maintenance oversight.
• Manual handling – oversight of lifting and handling of chemical bags and hoses by the team.
• Spills & environmental risk – drilling fluid leaks during blending or transfer that can affect soil or the marine environment.
• Fire/explosion risk – linked mainly to bulk material handling and control of ignition sources.
• Managerial/operational risk – incorrect blending ratios, miscommunication, or inadequate supervision affecting drilling performance and safety.
• Remote/coastal site risks – delayed emergency response and demanding working conditions.

Qualifications & Experience

• Proven experience supervising bulk/liquid mud plant or drilling fluids operations, preferably in oil & gas.
• Strong understanding of drilling fluids, blending/mixing procedures, and materials management.
• Prior team leadership or supervisory experience, including staff training and performance management.
• Strong HSE mindset aligned with client and international oil company (IOC) standards.
• Secondary education minimum (technical qualification preferred).
• English required; Portuguese is an advantage.
• Certifications preferred: H2S Awareness, BOSIET/FOET, site-specific HSE induction.

Key Skills

• Strong understanding of Materials Management principles and QA/QC processes.
• Leadership and staff development capability.
• Cost monitoring and continuous improvement mindset.
• Good communication with CSO, HSE Specialist, and materials management team.
• Working knowledge of plant equipment and maintenance planning.
• Ability to work under pressure in a remote/coastal operating environment.