Drilling Site Manager
Zanskar Geothermal & Minerals, Inc.
Company Overview
Zanskar Geothermal & Minerals, Inc.
HeadquartersSalt Lake City, United States
Founded2019
SizeApproximately 50 employees (source: linkedin.com). The company has raised approximately $65 million in equity by early 2024, with a total funding of at least $95 million, and holds $200 million in contracted future revenues expected to grow 10x in coming years (source: activate.org).
What They Do
Zanskar Geothermal & Minerals, Inc. specializes in next-generation geothermal energy, utilizing advanced technologies such as AI, machine learning, and big data to revolutionize geothermal discovery. The company was co-founded by Carl Hoiland and Joel Edwards, who aimed to address the stagnation in the geothermal industry by developing software models that analyze reservoir volume, rock density, and magnetic fields to forecast energy output. This innovative approach allows Zanskar to sell data as a "treasure map" to grid-scale developers, significantly reducing exploration risks and costs (source: xplorer.vc). Their services include AI-driven software for pinpointing geothermal prospects, real-time optimization tools for energy output, and comprehensive project development from discovery to operational plants (source: zanskar.com). Zanskar's target markets focus on utility-scale power for decarbonizing electricity grids, serving clients in intensive computing, electrification, and energy resilience (source: activate.org). The company has made more greenfield discoveries than the entire sector achieved in the previous decade, positioning itself as a leader in geothermal discovery (source: utahbusiness.com).
Projects & Track Record
One of Zanskar's notable achievements includes the acquisition of an operating geothermal power plant at the Lightning Dock geothermal field in New Mexico, which has been fully repowered by a new production well capable of over 200 Megawatts thermal (MWth) output, marking it as the most productive pumped geothermal well in the United States (source: activate.org). The company has successfully originated and de-risked a substantial portfolio of geothermal projects, with several projects currently online delivering firm, utility-scale power (source: zanskar.com). Ongoing projects include a pipeline of greenfield power developments across the western U.S., with dozens of sites already identified for gigawatt-scale power potential (source: activate.org). Zanskar has established contracts with key clients, including the U.S. Department of Defense, for energy resilience exploration, further solidifying its position in the geothermal market (source: utahbusiness.com).
Recent Developments
In May 2024, Zanskar successfully closed a $30 million funding round led by Obvious Ventures, with participation from several prominent investors, to scale AI exploration and accelerate technology development (source: thesaasnews.com). The company has also secured multiple contracts with the U.S. Department of Defense through the Defense Innovation Unit, showcasing its growing influence in the geothermal sector (source: activate.org). Zanskar's recent drilling success at Lightning Dock, New Mexico, with the 200+ MWth well, further highlights its operational capabilities and commitment to advancing geothermal energy solutions (source: utahbusiness.com). The company continues to build momentum with a small team, aiming for major commercial contracts within the next year post-2024 (source: activate.org).
Working There
Zanskar is actively hiring for various high-impact roles, likely spanning departments such as AI/machine learning, geoscience, field data collection, drilling operations, software development, and project development. The company emphasizes a small team dynamic that drives technological iteration and field programs (source: utahbusiness.com). Hiring is primarily centered at its Salt Lake City headquarters, with potential field-based opportunities tied to projects in the western U.S., particularly in New Mexico (source: linkedin.com). The company culture is described as fast-paced and barrier-breaking, where team members rapidly iterate models and collect unprecedented volumes of field data, contributing to discoveries that are both exciting and rewarding (source: utahbusiness.com). Specific benefits offered to employees are not documented in the available sources.
Last updated on Feb 23, 2026 | Report an issue
Job Description
Geothermal energy is a massive renewable energy resource sitting below our feet. There is 2,300 times more energy in geothermal heat in the ground than in oil, gas, coal, and methane combined. At Zanskar, we're using better technology to find and develop new geothermal resources in order to make geothermal a cheap and vital contributor to a carbon-free electrical grid.
Outcomes - Problems you'll solve
As a Drill Site Manager, you will be the on-site lead for a single drilling rig, executing the approved drilling program, supervising the crew, and ensuring safe, efficient progress each shift. You will work closely with the Drilling Superintendent and engineering staff, escalating issues and providing accurate daily reports.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead daily rig activities and supervise drilling crews to deliver the well plan safely and on schedule.
- Enforce HSE and regulatory requirements; conduct pre-shift safety meetings and ensure proper permits are in place.
- Monitor drilling parameters (MSE, ROP, WOB, mud properties, etc.) and adjust within program guidelines; promptly communicate variances to the Drilling Superintendent.
- Coordinate on-site logistics-materials, consumables, and service personnel-to minimize non-productive time.
- Maintain rig equipment readiness by scheduling routine inspections and first-line maintenance; initiate work orders for more complex repairs.
- Generate accurate daily reports (operations, costs, and HSE) and participate in after-action reviews.
- Mentor and train crew members on safe work practices and basic drilling procedures.
- Support continuous improvement by suggesting practical efficiency or safety enhancements observed in the field.
Competencies - What we're looking for
- 5+ years of drilling experience, including at least 5 years in a supervisory driller role on a drilling rig or equivalent work.
- Working knowledge of rotary drilling equipment, directional drilling, cementing, drilling fluids, and well control fundamentals.
- Ability to travel and work extended field rotations (e.g., 14 on/14 off or 14 on/7 off as operations dictate).
- Proven track record of maintaining a safe work environment and following standard operating procedures.
- Strong communication and basic computer skills for daily reporting (Google Workspace or similar).
Preferred Qualifications
- Geothermal drilling and flow testing background.
- Training in performance drilling using MSE
- Familiarity with preventative maintenance programs and basic rig troubleshooting.
General Field Requirements
- At least 18 years old, eligible to work in the U.S., and possess a valid driver's license with no major infractions in the past three years.
- Commit to personal and team safety, demonstrate professionalism, and maintain a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.
- Comfortable working outdoors in all weather, lifting/pushing/pulling up to 50 lbs, bending, kneeling, and standing for long periods.
- Able to navigate remote locations with GPS and follow company communication protocols.
Benefits
- Paid holidays
- 18 days PTO + PTO accrual increase based on tenure
- Medical, Dental & Vision coverage
- Short term and long term disability
- Equity Packages
- 401k with matching
- Paid Parental Leave
Equal Opportunity Employer
Zanskar is an equal-opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local fair employment practice laws.
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Job expired?Please let Zanskar Geothermal & Minerals, Inc. know you found this job on Rejobs. It helps us grow and get more people working in renewable energy.
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About the role
September 9, 2026
September 9, 2026
Full time
Hybrid
Company
Zanskar Geothermal & Minerals, Inc.
- Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
5+ years of drilling experience, including supervisory role
UTC-07:00