Wells Project Management Team Leader
About the role**:**
Segment: Exploration of Natural Resources (SOCAR Exploration)
Department: Projects & Operations
Reports To: P&O Manager
Location: Azerbaijan
About the Role:
We are seeking an experienced Wells PM Team Leader to lead the planning, execution and overseeing of exploration well projects across drilling, completion, workover, and abandonment operations, safely, on time, and within budget. This role leads multidisciplinary teams across organization and outside of it, and ensures compliance with technical, HSE, and regulatory requirements while optimizing well performance and cost efficiency.
Key Responsibilities:
Project Leadership & Delivery:
Lead end-to-end well project execution from concept to handover
Ensure wells are delivered safely, on schedule, and within AFE budget
Define project objectives, scope, and execution strategy
Oversee multiple well operations and provide strategic direction
Well Planning & Engineering Oversight:
Review and approve/assure well programs, drilling/completion designs, and procedures
Ensure robust barrier design and well integrity standards are met
Coordinate with subsurface teams (geology, reservoir) for optimal well placement
Drive technical assurance and peer reviews
HSE & Risk Management:
Champion a strong safety culture and ensure full HSE compliance
Lead risk assessments (HAZID, HAZOP, SIMOPS reviews)
Ensure proper well control and barrier management practices
Oversee incident investigations and implement lessons learned
Budget & Cost Control:
Own and manage AFE (Authorization for Expenditure) and well budgets
Monitor cost performance and forecast expenditures
Identify cost optimization opportunities without compromising safety
Manage cost overruns and implement corrective actions
Contractor & Vendor Management:
Select and manage drilling contractors and service companies
Support contract negotiations and management
Oversee contract execution and performance (KPIs, SLAs)
Ensure quality assurance and service delivery standards
Lead tendering and technical evaluations where required
Operations Supervision & Performance:
Monitor real-time operations and provide decision support for critical issues
Ensure operational readiness before spud (rig, equipment, personnel)
Track and improve KPIs (NPT, cost efficiency, safety performance)
Drive continuous improvement across well delivery
Stakeholder & Regulatory Interface:
Act as the main focal point for internal stakeholders, partners, and regulators
Ensure compliance with local and international regulations
Prepare and present project updates to senior management
Qualifications and Experience:
Degree in Petroleum Engineering, Drilling Engineering, or related field
10–15+ years of experience in well engineering/operations (exploration and development)
Proven experience in leading well projects (exploration and development) or drilling teams
Strong knowledge of well integrity, well control, and drilling operations
Certifications (e.g., IWCF / IADC Well Control) preferred
Experience in vendor selection and contracting processes
Fluency in English is required; additional languages are a plus
Key Skills and Competencies:
Leadership and decision-making under pressure
Strong technical and operational expertise
Financial and commercial awareness
Risk management and problem-solving
Communication and stakeholder management
What We Offer:
Opportunity to work on complex and technically challenging projects
Exposure to international standards and best practices
Collaborative and high-performing work environment
Opportunities for professional growth and development
Competitive compensation and benefits package including health insurance, performance bonuses, training and development opportunities and etc.
Interested candidates can send their cv to the e-mail address in the Apply for job button.
