RD&E Program & Operations Director

Job Title: Director, R&D Programs & Operations

Location: Houston, TX (Global Role)
 

Job Purpose

The Director of R&D Programs & Operations is responsible for driving operational excellence across Weatherford’s global R&D Engineering (RDE) organization. This role ensures that all RDE activities are executed through lean, standardized, and well-documented processes, with clear KPIs to improve delivery, productivity, and quality. The role also oversees technical competency frameworks, engineering enablement, project governance, and global lab operations.

Key Responsibilities Operational Excellence & Process Governance

• Lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of RDE processes, procedures, work instructions, and standards.
• Establish and track KPIs for RDE performance (e.g., cycle time, budget adherence, productivity).
• Promote digital workflows and AI adoption to enhance efficiency and compliance.
• Facilitate cross-functional collaboration to identify and mitigate risks and drive standardization (e.g., design standards, components, DFM).

Engineering Enablement

• Optimize global procurement and vendor management processes in collaboration with Engineering Directors.
• Oversee internal project management tools and workflows (e.g., VSES).
• Evaluate and enhance engineering software tools and systems.

Project Management Oversight

• Conduct monthly reviews of at-risk projects and lead post-mortem evaluations.
• Own project management as a core RDE competency and ensure team capability development.

Global Laboratory & Asset Management

• Lead the strategic direction and operational execution of Weatherford’s global RDE lab network.
• Ensure labs meet safety, quality, and regulatory standards while optimizing resource allocation and innovation.

Communication & Stakeholder Engagement

• Maintain effective communication with internal and external stakeholders.
• Ensure clear expectations and accountability across teams.

Financial & People Leadership

• Ensure financial responsibility across RDE operations.
• Support talent development, succession planning, and performance management in collaboration with HR.

Qualifications Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Science.
• 15+ years in the upstream industry with cross-functional exposure (engineering, product management, manufacturing, etc.).
• 10+ years in engineering operations, process development, and technical support.
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred:

• Advanced degree or certifications.
• Experience in commercial, operational, or manufacturing roles.

Skills & Competencies

• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive change.
• Strong financial acumen and data-driven decision-making.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management.
• Passion for continuous improvement and innovation.

Weatherford is a leading global energy services company. Our world-class experts partner with customers to optimize their resources and realize the full potential of their assets. Across our operating locations, including manufacturing, research and development, service, and training facilities, operators choose us for strategic solutions that add efficiency, flexibility, and responsibility to any energy operation.
When you join Weatherford, you instantly feel connected to something bigger – a community that is grounded by our core values and driven to create innovative solutions for our customers. We celebrate each other’s successes, grow together, and learn from each other constantly. Individually, we are impressive. Together, we are unstoppable. We are One Weatherford.   Weatherford is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.