Tool pusher

About the job

Company Description

IOTA Group has been supporting its clients for over 40 years by providing specialised technical expertise for complex international projects, particularly in the energy and infrastructure sectors.

As part of a major deep geothermal drilling project in the canton of Vaud, Switzerland, IOTA is seeking several experienced drilling professionals to strengthen the teams involved in this campaign.

Job Description

We are looking for several experienced Tool Pushers / Drilling Foremen to participate in a deep geothermal drilling campaign in Switzerland.

Operations will be carried out on a lightweight drilling rig – Super Light Rig – equipped with an MPD (Managed Pressure Drilling) system.

The site will operate 24/7, with 12-hour shifts on a 3x3 rotation.

Technical training and project familiarisation of one to two weeks are planned in Switzerland in December 2026, before operational start-up scheduled for January 2027.

Your main responsibilities will include:

• Supervising and controlling all drilling operations in close coordination with the Drilling Supervisor.
• Ensuring the proper execution of operations until the well objectives are achieved.
• Planning and organising drilling operations on the Super Light Rig with MPD system.
• Managing drilling teams and ensuring compliance with operational instructions issued by the Senior Drilling Supervisor.
• Constantly ensuring the safety of personnel, environment, and equipment.
• Ensuring compliance with Well Control requirements.
• Participating in the supervision of Well Killing operations in well control situations.
• Ensuring proper execution of planned equipment maintenance.
• Ensuring availability of equipment, parts, and consumables necessary for operations.
• Leading, supporting, and developing the skills of drilling teams.
• Promoting a strong HSE culture among all teams.
• Preparing drilling operation reports and equipment status reports in accordance with project procedures.

Qualifications

• We are seeking an experienced professional with a proven track record in onshore drilling operations.

  Required experience:

• Minimum 12 years’ experience in Oil & Gas Onshore drilling operations or deep geothermal.
• Career path demonstrating prior experience as Assistant Driller then Driller before progressing to Tool Pusher roles.
• Minimum 2 years’ experience in continental Europe.
• Strong experience in supervising teams and drilling operations.
• Good knowledge of Well Control operations and contingency situations.
• Experience in planning and coordinating rig activities.

• Expected skills:

• Proven leadership and ability to manage drilling teams.
• Excellent communication skills in multicultural and multidisciplinary environments.
• Strong skills in risk management and contingency management.
• Good command of operational planning and equipment monitoring.
• Strong awareness of HSE, safety, and environmental requirements.
• Ability to work effectively with the Drilling Supervisor, field teams, and contractors.
• Advanced professional English is essential.

• Required / expected certifications:

• IWCF Level 4
• OPITO H2S
• MIST or BOSIET
• Valid OEUK medical certificate

• Experience with operations using an MPD – Managed Pressure Drilling system will be a real advantage.

Additional Information

• Project: Deep geothermal drilling
• Location: Canton of Vaud, Switzerland
• Technical training: 1 to 2 weeks in Switzerland in December 2026
• Operational start: January 2027
• Initial duration: 4 to 6 months, with possible extension depending on project needs
• Organisation: 3x3 rotation
• Working hours: 12-hour shifts – 24/7 operations

Do you have solid experience as a Tool Pusher and wish to join a deep geothermal drilling campaign in Switzerland?

Join the IOTA teams and send us your application.