Pipelay Engineer

Position Overview

The Pipelay Engineer is responsible for the engineering analysis, procedure development, and execution support for offshore pipeline and flowline installation campaigns using S-lay, J-lay, and reel-lay methods. This role demands specialized knowledge of pipeline mechanics, vessel capabilities, and installation methodology to deliver safe and efficient pipelay operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop installation procedures for offshore pipelines and flowlines covering S-lay, J-lay, and reel-lay methods
• Perform pipeline installation engineering analyses including lay stress analysis, buckling assessment, collapse analysis, and on-bottom stability
• Calculate pipeline tension requirements, stinger configurations, and abandonment/recovery procedures
• Prepare vessel-specific pipelay documentation including tensioner settings, roller configurations, and line-up procedures
• Support offshore pipelay campaigns as vessel-based or onshore engineering representative
• Coordinate with vessel marine teams on weather criteria, DP requirements, and station-keeping during lay operations
• Manage pipeline installation risk assessments and contingency procedures for flooding, buckling, and weather stand-by scenarios
• Review and approve field joint coating, NDT, and automatic welding procedures for compliance with project specifications
• Monitor pipelay progress and analyze production data to optimize lay rates and identify improvement opportunities
• Prepare as-laid pipeline documentation including alignment sheets, as-laid surveys, and installation completion reports

Qualifications

Required

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Civil, or Pipeline Engineering; Master's degree preferred
• Certifications: BOSIET/FOET (for offshore support); Valid Offshore Medical; Chartered Engineer status preferred
• Experience: Minimum 5 years in offshore pipelay engineering; experience with at least two lay methods (S-lay, J-lay, reel-lay)
• Technical Skills: Pipeline stress analysis (OFFPIPE, Sima, OrcaFlex); DNV-ST-F101 and API 5L compliance; welding and NDT knowledge; installation vessel spread knowledge

Preferred

• Deepwater J-lay installation experience (1,500m+)
• Reel-lay experience for flowlines and umbilicals
• HP/HT pipeline installation engineering experience
• Pipeline buckling and walking assessment expertise