Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Drill String • Wellbore • Artificial Lift

Rotary Steerable System

Term from Oil Extraction industry explained for recruiters

A Rotary Steerable System is a sophisticated drilling tool used in oil and gas wells that allows operators to drill in precise directions underground. Think of it like a high-tech steering wheel for drilling - instead of drilling straight down only, it helps guide the drill bit in any desired direction while continuously rotating. This technology has largely replaced older methods of directional drilling, making the process faster and more accurate. Companies like Baker Hughes, Schlumberger, and Halliburton are major providers of this technology. These systems are essential for reaching oil and gas deposits that aren't directly below the drilling site, similar to drinking from a juice box with a bendable straw rather than a straight one.

Examples in Resumes

Supervised drilling operations using Rotary Steerable System and RSS technology to achieve 98% drilling accuracy

Trained junior engineers on Rotary Steerable Systems operation and maintenance

Optimized well placement using RSS technology, reducing drilling time by 30%

Typical job title: "Directional Drilling Engineers"

Also try searching for:

Directional Driller Drilling Engineer MWD Engineer RSS Operator Petroleum Engineer Drilling Operations Engineer

Where to Find Directional Drilling Engineers

Professional Organizations

Industry Networks

Events & Conferences

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a situation where the Rotary Steerable System is not performing as expected during a critical drilling operation?

Expected Answer: A senior engineer should discuss troubleshooting steps, backup plans, safety considerations, and communication protocols with the rig team. They should mention examining drilling parameters, system diagnostics, and potential solutions while considering cost and time implications.

Q: What factors do you consider when selecting a Rotary Steerable System for a specific well project?

Expected Answer: Should discuss well profile, formation characteristics, budget constraints, equipment availability, and project timeline. Should also mention consideration of different vendors' systems and their specific advantages.

Mid Level Questions

Q: Explain the difference between push-the-bit and point-the-bit systems in RSS technology.

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain in simple terms how these two main types of steering systems work, their advantages and disadvantages, and typical applications for each.

Q: What safety procedures do you follow when operating a Rotary Steerable System?

Expected Answer: Should discuss pre-job safety meetings, system checks, monitoring procedures, emergency protocols, and communication with the drilling team.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic components of a Rotary Steerable System?

Expected Answer: Should be able to name and explain the main parts like the control unit, steering unit, and sensors in simple terms, and describe their basic functions.

Q: What is the main advantage of using a Rotary Steerable System compared to conventional drilling methods?

Expected Answer: Should explain how RSS allows for continuous rotation while steering, resulting in better hole cleaning, faster drilling, and more precise well paths.