Kick
A kick is a critical safety situation in oil and gas drilling where unwanted fluids (like oil, gas, or water) enter the wellbore during drilling operations. Think of it like a warning sign that something isn't right in the well. It's similar to shaking a bottle of soda - if not managed properly, it could lead to bigger problems. Understanding kicks is essential for drilling personnel as they are early indicators that could prevent more serious incidents. When you see this term in resumes, it usually relates to someone's experience in well control, safety management, or drilling operations.
Examples in Resumes
Managed Kick detection and control procedures on deepwater drilling projects
Successfully handled multiple Kick situations during high-pressure well operations
Trained junior personnel in Kick prevention and response protocols
Typical job title: "Drilling Engineers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Drilling Engineers
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Industry Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a complex kick situation in a high-pressure well?
Expected Answer: A senior professional should discuss multiple aspects including early detection signs, proper response procedures, team coordination, and risk management strategies. They should also mention experience with various types of kicks and different well conditions.
Q: Describe a time when you had to make a critical decision during a kick incident.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership ability, quick decision-making skills, and knowledge of emergency response protocols. Should include examples of successful kick control operations they've managed.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the main indicators of a kick during drilling operations?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain common signs like unexpected increase in flow rate, changes in pump pressure, and pit gain. Should demonstrate understanding of monitoring systems and quick response procedures.
Q: How do you train junior staff in kick prevention?
Expected Answer: Should discuss training methods, key safety points, common mistakes to avoid, and importance of regular drills and practice scenarios.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is a kick and why is it important to detect it early?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic understanding of what causes kicks, why they're dangerous, and the importance of early detection in preventing more serious well control incidents.
Q: What are the basic steps in kick response?
Expected Answer: Should be able to outline the fundamental response steps, including shutting in the well, alerting supervisors, and following established safety protocols.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of kick indicators
- Knowledge of safety procedures
- Ability to monitor well parameters
- Understanding of basic well control equipment
Mid (2-5 years)
- Kick prevention and control procedures
- Emergency response coordination
- Team supervision during well control events
- Risk assessment abilities
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced well control management
- Emergency situation leadership
- Training and mentoring capabilities
- Complex well operations oversight
Red Flags to Watch For
- No well control certification
- Lack of hands-on drilling experience
- Unable to explain basic kick indicators
- No knowledge of safety procedures
- Gap in understanding well control equipment
Related Terms
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