Is oil & gas production a good career path?
Oil and gas production is an ancient industry. It’s not likely to go anywhere anytime soon. However, some big changes are happening in this sector.
In this career path guide, We’ll talk about what those changes mean for workers in the industry, how you can make the most out of your job, and answer the question: “Is oil & gas production a good career path in 2022”?
Oil and Gas Production Job Description: What You Need to Know
The oil and gas industry employs thousands of workers across the United States. It pays better than most other occupations. On average, oil and gas employees earn $100,00 per year. (Payscale)
However, there are many different types of positions within the industry. Some include engineers, geologists, accountants, lawyers, marketers, salespeople, and truck drivers.
There are plenty of opportunities for anyone willing to put in the effort.
Workplace Safety
The oil and gas industry is one of the most dangerous. Workers face high risks every day. It’s been reported that nearly 6 million people work in the oil and gas industry.
They face dangers like explosions, fires, toxic chemicals, and drowning. Unfortunately, accidents happen frequently, and many workers don’t know how to protect themselves.
Fortunately, though, there are things you can do to make sure your employees are safe while working.
Training workers about workplace safety is very important. You want to ensure that everyone knows what to do in emergencies. This way, no worker gets hurt because he didn’t know what to do. And, if someone does get injured, you can help him recover faster.
There are many ways to improve workplace safety, including ensuring your equipment is well maintained. If something breaks down, you could end up causing an accident.
So, it’s best to keep everything running smoothly. Also, check the weather forecast and plan accordingly. Make sure you have enough workers on hand to cover shifts during inclement weather.
Finally, train your workers about emergency procedures. You want to teach them how to respond quickly and effectively in an emergency.
For example, you might show them videos of what happens when a fire starts. Or, you could give them a checklist of steps to follow in case of an explosion.
Working Conditions
There are many jobs in the oil and natural resources sector. Some people like to work in less demanding roles, while others enjoy challenging tasks.
Offshore rig workers face some of the most difficult working conditions. They must endure long hours, poor living standards, harsh weather, dangerous environments, and high risks.
Industry’s Future
The energy industry provides millions of American jobs. It accounts for more than five percent of total employment in the United States.
And while there are many different types of energy companies, there are some commonalities among them. For example, most energy companies are involved in exploration, production, refining, distribution, marketing, trading, and transportation.
All of these activities require employees with specialized skills. This article looks at how the energy industry impacts Americans daily.
Career Paths in the Oil and Gas Industry
The oil and gas industry offers various career paths, including engineering, marketing, finance, operations, and more. Here are some examples of what you could do in the industry.
1. Engineering Jobs
A petroleum engineer designs wells, pipelines, refineries, and storage facilities. Engineers must understand the science behind the process and design systems that make it possible.
2. Project Managers
A project manager oversees the execution of projects within an organization. Project managers coordinate teams, manage budgets, and oversee schedules.
3. Well Site Supervisors
A well-site supervisor ensures safety during the construction and operation of offshore platforms, rigs, and pipelines. These positions require knowledge of marine biology and chemistry.
4. Mud Logger
Oil and gas companies use mud loggers to measure the amount of water in drilling fluid. They measure how much weight it takes to sink a bucket full of drilling fluid. This is called the “mud density.”
The mud logger uses a special tool to measure the mud density. A mudlogger works by filling up buckets of drilling fluid with air. Then, the mud logger measures how heavy each bucket of drilling fluid is.
5. Mining Engineer
A mining engineer works in underground mines. He designs equipment used in extracting ore from the ground.
His job requires him to understand how rocks and minerals form and interact with one another. In addition to his technical knowledge, he must be able to communicate well with others. Most mining engineers hold a bachelor’s degree.
6. Marketing Coordinator
The marketing coordinator works closely with other members of his or her team, including engineers and geological experts. He or she must be able to communicate well and succinctly.
As the oil and gas sector continues to grow, marketing coordinators have many opportunities to move up into management positions.
7. Geoscientist
A geoscientist works in many fields, including mine, petroleum exploration, environmental preservation, and engineering. They are responsible for interpreting complex data about the earth’s structure and function.
Geoscientists often spend much of their career traveling around the world to study areas where there might be interest in finding new deposits.
8. Energy Engineer
An energy engineer designs, builds, operates, maintains, and repairs pipelines, power plants, refineries, chemical processing facilities, and similar structures used in the production, storage, transmission, distribution, and use of natural resources such as oil, coal, water, steam, electricity, and natural gas.
An energy engineer works under the supervision of engineers and managers responsible for the operation of a facility.
In addition to technical skills, an energy engineer requires knowledge of safety practices, regulations, laws, standards, and procedures; mechanical aptitude; mathematical ability; leadership abilities; oral communication skills; organizational skills; and problem-solving skills.
The median annual wage for electrical/electronics engineers was $90,230 in May 2018. Employment opportunities are expected to grow 18% over the next decade, much faster than average.
9. Petroleum Engineer
A petroleum engineer works behind the scenes to ensure the safe and efficient extraction of oil and gas from underground reservoirs. He or she helps develop production plans that maximize well output while minimizing environmental impact.
A petroleum engineer might play a key role in developing new technologies for extracting oil and gas, horizontal drilling, and hydraulic fracturing. He or she may also be involved in the planning and constructing of new production facilities, offshore platforms, and pipeline systems.
10. Engineering Geologist
An engineering geologist works with engineers to develop oil and gas resources. They are responsible for understanding the earth’s structure, including faults, fractures, and tectonic plates.
Their job includes studying rock formations to determine whether they contain hydrocarbons such as oil and natural gas. They work closely with geophysicists, chemists, biologists, petroleum engineers, and others to ensure that wells drilled into the ground do not cause damage to the environment.
The engineering geologist uses tools like seismographs, borehole instruments, and seismic imaging software to help find places where oil and gas might lie trapped underground.
Once they identify potential locations, they use computer simulations to predict what could happen if the well is drilled there. If the predictions match reality, they design the drill rig and equipment needed to extract the oil and gas.
11. Environmental Compliance Specialist
Environmental compliance specialists help organizations comply with environmental regulations. They review existing policies and procedures to make sure they meet regulatory requirements.
They also ensure that employees follow safety guidelines, such as those related to hazardous materials. These professionals often work directly with government agencies to ensure companies are following all rules and regulations.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts employment opportunities for environmental compliance specialists will grow by 17% over the next decade.
In addition, salaries for environmental compliance specialists vary based on experience levels. A recent study found that average environmental compliance specialists earn $61K annually. (indeed.com)
12. Hydrographic Surveyor
A hydrographic surveyor measures water depths and maps the sea floor. He collects data about the physical features ocean, including temperature, salinities, turbidites, densities, currents, wave,s and tides. He studies the impact of climate change and helps protect our oceans.
13. Natural Gas Trader
Natural gas trading is an important component of the natural gas industry. It is one of the most important parts of the industry because it is what allows energy companies to make money.
Energy companies buy natural gas from producers and sell it to consumers. They do this by buying and selling contracts called futures.
A futures contract allows buyers and sellers to agree on how much natural gas will cost in the future. This lets energy companies hedge against price fluctuations.
A natural gas trader works for a firm that buys and sells natural gas futures contracts. He or she ensures that there is enough natural gas being produced and sold to meet the needs of consumers.
If too many people want natural gas, prices go up. So, the trader tries to keep production low and sales high. Conversely, if no one wants natural gas, prices fall. So, the trader increases production and lowers prices.
There are different types of natural gas traders. Some work for companies that produce natural gas, while others trade on behalf of end users like utilities and industrial plants. Traders typically start working for oil companies but eventually move into natural gas.
The job market for natural gas traders is very competitive. There are about 10,000 jobs available nationwide. Many natural gas traders earn $100,000 per year. However, some earn six figures.
14. Commercial Analyst
A commercial analyst plays an important part in the oil and natural gas industries. They are responsible for analyzing data and forecasting market trends. This position requires experience in the energy sector.
Pros of Pursuing a Career in Oil and Gas Production
The energy industry offers many career paths, including exploration and production. These include geologists, petroleum engineers, website operators, drilling supervisors, rig hands, pipeline technicians, and laborers. Some people work in upstream operations, while others prefer working in downstream operations.
In addition to the above-mentioned jobs, there are numerous other roles within the industry, including sales representative, marketing manager, safety coordinator, quality assurance specialist, and human resources professional.
There are several reasons why someone might want to pursue a career in oil and gas production. For starters, it provides job security.
In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment prospects in the field are expected to grow by 20% over the next decade. Moreover, salaries tend to be very competitive, especially in other industries.
Additionally, you can earn decent pay without having much experience. You don’t necessarily need to attend college or even complete high school to begin working in the field.
If you decide to enter the oil and gas industry, you must understand that there are plenty of opportunities. However, competition tends to be fierce, so you must ensure that you stand out among other candidates. To do this, you must develop strong skills and knowledge.
You can start by taking advantage of online courses offered by reputable institutions like Udemy and Coursera.
If you enroll in one of these programs, ensure that you keep up with assignments and deadlines.
This way, you won’t fall behind and risk losing out on important information.
Cons of Pursuing a Career in Oil and Gas Production
There are also some disadvantages to work in oil and gas production, but they’re not so bad.
One of the biggest drawbacks is its location. Many oil and gas resources are located in remote areas. So, you may have to move to a new location where you don’t know anyone.
Another disadvantage is the actual work involved. Oil and gas production requires physical strength and can be dangerous.
10 Entry-Level Jobs in Oil and Gas Production
1. Oil Truck Driver – Average Annual Salary: $48,553
Oil Truck Driver’s average annual salary is $48,553. This is a great opportunity for someone looking to enter the oil industry. You will need a CDL and the ability to maintain your own vehicle.
This position requires a commercial driver’s license and the ability to keep up to date with paperwork and do basic repairs on the truck. Trucking is an industry that requires long hours, and many people choose to do it as a side hustle. However, because of that, they tend to earn a decent living.
Source: salary.com
2. Petroleum Refinery Operator – Average Annual Salary: $39,120 to 94,120
Petroleum refineries refine crude oil into fuels like gasoline, diesel fuel, jet fuel, and heating oil.
These refineries are usually located next to large cities, producing millions of gallons of fuel annually. A petroleum refinery operator works in a very dangerous environment.
They must understand the process and how to safely operate the equipment. They must also be trained to properly clean the equipment after each run.
Petroleum refineries are large industrial plants that refine crude oil into various products. Refinery workers are responsible for operating the equipment that separates the different components of crude oil.
They also must understand the chemical composition of each product and how to properly store them. A high school diploma is usually enough to get hired at a refinery.
On-the-job training is required to become proficient in the operation of the equipment.
3. Oil Fire Specialist Average Annual Salary: $45,000 – $85,000
An oil fire specialist is a firefighter who specializes in dealing with oil and gas fires. These fires are different than other fires because they are very hard to extinguish.
So not only does someone in the role need to know how to handle those types of fires, but they’re also expected to be familiar with fire prevention regulations and safety procedures.
A firefighting team comprises highly trained professionals who specialize in fighting oil and gas fires. These firefighters are trained to deal with the unique challenges of working in an environment filled with flammable gases and liquids.
So not only does a person in this role need to know how to deal with that kind of fire, but they’re expected to be familiar with safety regulations, fire prevention, and first aid.
Source: careertrend.com
4. Floor Hand – Average Hourly Salary: $61,907
A floor hand usually works directly under the supervision of a drill operator. They do routine checks and maintenance.
This is a very physically demanding job that’ll get you dirty and potentially dangerous. However, the floor hand is the bottom level position on a rig. Meaning it’s the easiest way to get started in this industry.
A floor hand is a low-level worker on a drilling rig. They are responsible for maintaining safety and keeping the rig running smoothly.
Floor hands are often the first line of defense against accidents and are responsible for cleaning up after the drillers. They are the lowest paid workers on a rig and are often the first to go when there’s a layoff.
Source: indeed.com
5. Welder – Average Annual Salary: $47,872
Welding is an occupation that requires skill and experience. A welder must be able to read blueprints and understand what needs to be done.
He or she will also need to be able to follow instructions and work safely. There are different types of welding, including arc welding, gas welding, and plasma welding.
Arc welding is the most common type of welding.
Welding is an essential skill in any oil rig. It is a skilled trade that requires a lot of practice and experience. A welder must be able to weld pipes and other metal objects together, and they need to be able to do it quickly and efficiently.
Offshore rigs are often located far away from cities, making getting help difficult. Welders are also responsible for keeping the rig safe. If something goes wrong, they will need to fix it themselves.
Welding is often taught at trade and vocational schools.
Source: indeed.com
6. Process Technician – Average Annual Salary: $54,535
Process technicians help manufacturers run their processes efficiently. They ensure that all parts are functioning correctly and that the machines are running at peak efficiency.
They may need to adjust the process to meet changing demands. They must be able to troubleshoot problems and fix them quickly.
A process engineer designs processes and systems. They ensure that the process works correctly and efficiently. They also design the equipment that will run the process.
Quality assurance is an important aspect of any product. It ensures that the product meets its specifications and performs as expected.
Quality assurance professionals must be able to test products for defects and ensure that they meet all requirements. They may also need to modify the product if necessary.
Source: indeed.com
7. Roustabout – Average Annual Salary: $37,000
Roustabouts are often hired to help out in the oil fields. They are usually unskilled laborers who are paid low wages.
Their main duty is to load and unload trucks and equipment and perform maintenance.
Roustables are a type of unskilled worker in the oil industry.
They are often hired to help load and unload supplies and perform maintenance. They are also expected to do other miscellaneous jobs around the rig.
Source: indeed.com
8. Petroleum Inspector – Average Annual Salary: $61,425
Petroleum Inspectors are responsible for ensuring that oil meets industry and government standards. Their job is to ensure the oil is safe for consumers and the environment.
They also ensure that the oil is properly labeled and stored.
Petroleum inspectors are responsible for ensuring that oil meets industry and government standards. Their job is to test the oil for quality and file the appropriate paperwork if it doesn’t meet those standards. Petroleum inspectors also flag anything that doesn‘t meet the standards.
Source: glassdoor.com
9. Safety Officer – Average Annual Salary: $77,861
Safety officers are responsible for ensuring that safety procedures and standards for the company are followed. They must be trained in all safety aspects, including health and environmental issues.
A college degree in a related area is usually required.
Source: indeed.com
10. Oiler – Average Annual Salary: $25,125 to $63,200
An oiler is responsible for maintaining heavy equipment. They are often responsible for caring for the machines that produce oil and gas. Oilers are usually paid well because of the importance of their job.
A mechanic is responsible for maintaining the machines that keep the oil flowing. They also take care to ensure that the machines are well maintained.
Oil and gas production requires heavy equipment, meaning that many mechanics will work on the machines. Mechanics are often required to repair and maintain machinery.
10 of the Best Paying Jobs in Oil and Gas Production
1. Natural Gas Trader – Median Annual Salary: $129,868
Natural gas traders are responsible for balancing the supply and demand of natural gas. They need to keep an eye on natural gas prices and ensure that their customers receive the best possible price.
Natural Gas Traders are responsible for monitoring natural gas prices and ensuring that the prices are fair. They also monitor the supply and demand of natural gas and ensure enough supply to meet the demand.
They have a lot of competition, so they must keep an eye out for potential threats. They also have to balance the buying experience – they need to ensure they’re offering the best possible service to their customers. They also need to ensure they’re getting the best product prices.
2. Petroleum Engineer – Median Annual Salary: $137,330
Petroleum engineers design and implement the best ways to extract oil from the earth. They keep abreast of new technologies and techniques to see if they should be applied to the process. Some are also expected to monitor equipment, ensuring that it’s working correctly and properly maintained.
Petroleum Engineers are responsible for the design and implementation of the oil industry. They are also responsible for ensuring that all equipment works correctly and efficiently. They are expected to monitor equipment and ensure that it is functioning properly.
Source: money.usnews.com
3. Process Engineer – Median Annual Salary: $78,500
A process engineer works to make the manufacturing process run better. They need to understand their industry, as well the processing techniques used. They also need to have knowledge of the equipment used in the manufacturing process.
Process engineers work to make the production process better. They need to have knowledge of their industries, as well as the processes used. They also need to understand the materials used and how they react to different conditions.
4. Mechanical Engineer – Average Annual Salary: $79,000
Mechanical Engineering is a very broad field. Mechanical Engineers work with all kinds of machinery, including cars, planes, trains, and even space shuttles.
Mechanical engineering is a broad field that covers everything from designing cars to creating medical devices. Mechanical engineers work with machines for them to be as safe, efficient, effective, and reliable as possible.
Oil and Gas production completely relies on machinery, making mechanical engineers an absolute necessity.
Source: indeed.com
5. Petroleum Geologist – Median Annual Salary: $110,456
Petroleum geologists study the Earth’s crust to determine if oil or gas is present. They also study the rock formations to see if they are stable enough to hold the oil or gas.
They then analyze the drilling results to see if the oil or gas is present. If they find oil or gas, they will help companies extract it.
Petroleum geologists study the rocks that contain oil and gas. They also study the rock formations that hold water, which is necessary for drilling.
They understand the different rock formations and how they affect the likelihood of finding oil and gas.
They know about the different types of wells and how they can be drilled. They also know about the different types and sizes of pumps and other equipment that can extract oil and gas.
Source: salary.com
6. Petroleum Analyst – Average Annual Salary: $76,161
Petroleum analysts work on the oil industry’s business side, pricing, production costs, and demand.
They study how much it costs companies to remove and refine the products, then how high demand there is.
From these calculations, they come up with pricing to keep the company profitable and how much money they need to invest in new equipment.
Analyst jobs are based on numbers, and petroleum analyst jobs focus on the oil and gas business. Analysts work on pricing and production costs and often work on an oil company’s business side.
They study the market and what other companies are doing. Then they calculate how much it will cost to remove and refine the products. From these calculations, the price is determined. If the price is too low, the company won’t be profitable. If the price is high enough, the company will be profitable.
Source: glassdor.com
7. Natural Gas Engineer – Median Annual Salary: $130,000 comparably.com
Natural gas engineers are responsible for extracting natural gas from underground deposits. They also design pipelines and other infrastructure to transport natural gas.
Natural gas engineers must be familiar with the different types of wells, pipelines, and storage facilities. They must also know the safety precautions required when working with natural gas.
Natural gas engineers extract natural gas from underground deposits. Their job is to figure out how to get the gas out of the ground safely and efficiently.
They also design pipelines and other equipment to transport the gas to its destination.
They understand the best practices for extracting natural gas and know how to get the job done safely and efficiently. They also know what equipment is necessary and how to use it.
8. Tool Pusher – Median Annual Salary: $60,000
This is an entry-level position. A tool pusher is in charge of the rig and all the people that help run it. Because of the responsibility, they’ll be well compensated, but they’ll need to put in a lot of effort to get there.
They’re in charge of the equipment, and personnel, keeping everything running smoothly and ensuring the job gets done right.
Tool pusher is a job title that describes someone who works at a construction site. They are in charge of the tools and equipment used to build structures.
They are also in charge of the workers that help build those structures. They are responsible for ensuring everyone is safe while working on the project.
They are also responsible for ensuring the project is completed on time and within budget.
9. Landman – Average Annual Salary: $83,082
A landman is an agent who negotiates the terms of a lease agreement between a company and a landowner.
Landmen must be knowledgeable about local laws and regulations and land ownership and management. They often work directly with landowners, but sometimes they work through brokers.
A land agent is an individual who represents a company or other entity in negotiations with landowners about leasing or purchasing land.
Land agents must be knowledgeable about local laws and regulations and often need to be good salespeople. A land agent may represent a company or other entity, or he or she may represent a single owner.
Source: indeed.com
10. Environmental Compliance Specialist – Average Annual Salary: $60,000
An Environmental Compliance Specialist ensures that the company complies with all laws and regulations regarding environmental issues.
They must know the different state and local laws and understand the difference between federal and state laws.
They may need to measure emissions and pollutants, and they may need to know chemistry.
A person with this title ensures that the company meets the relevant environmental requirements.
They need to understand the laws of the land and the differences between state and local regulations. They also need to know about chemistry because they may have to measure emissions and pollution levels.
Source: indeed.com
Career Path in Oil and Gas Production: Education and Certification Requirements
A bachelor’s degree is often considered the bare minimum requirement for entry-level jobs in the oil and gas industry. But there are plenty of opportunities for those who want to advance beyond the basics. Here are some options that could help you reach your career goals.
The American Petroleum Institute offers certification programs for engineers, geologists, chemists, petroleum technicians, well site managers, production supervisors, and safety professionals.
These certifications are designed to provide hands-on training and practical experience. They are awarded based on the successful completion of exams and a review process.
For those looking for a more academic approach, the University of Houston provides online master’s degree programs in petroleum engineering, chemical engineering, geological sciences, environmental management, mechanical engineering, operations research, and systems analysis. Students receive a certificate upon graduation.
If you prefer to focus on a particular area, the University of Texas at San Antonio offers a Bachelor of Science program in petroleum engineering.
You can specialize in reservoir engineering, exploration and development, pipeline design and construction, drilling technology, logistics and transportation, well intervention, hydrocarbon processing, petrophysics, seismic data interpretation, and reservoir simulation.
Certification isn’t necessary to work in the oil and gas field, but it can make things easier. For example, the Society of Petroleum Engineers offers several professional credentials for people working in the industry. SPE offers four membership levels: associate, member, fellow, and engineer.
Each level requires different qualifications and experience.
Associate members must hold at least a high school diploma or equivalent; they typically don’t require college credits. Members must pass a written examination and complete a portfolio project.
Fellows must have completed graduate studies, passed a comprehensive exam, and demonstrated leadership skills. Engineers must earn three full years of experience and pass a comprehensive exam.
SPE also offers five specialties within the oil and gas industry: crude oil trading, natural gas transmission and distribution, natural gas gathering and compression, offshore oil and gas, and oil and gas production.
To become certified in one of these areas, applicants must meet the same requirements as above, plus pass a test on the specialty.
Job Qualifications to Get Hired in The Oil & Gas Industry
Basic requirements for a field worker include 18 years old and having a high school diploma or equivalent, while it is required to have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent to qualify for professional positions.
To qualify for professional positions, applicants must have a minimum of one year of relevant work experience or an internship.
For example, a candidate with three years of work experience could apply for a position requiring five years of experience. Applicants must also pass a drug test and background check.
Required Skills For Oil & Gas industry:
Good problem-solving skills. Leadership qualities. Strong communication skills. Ability to work under pressure. Self-motivated. Be able to learn quickly. Have good analytical skills. Experience working in a team environment.
Typical Education for Energy Jobs
Energy jobs are growing rapidly across North America. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities in the sector grew by nearly 30% over the past decade.
This growth is expected to continue into the future, especially since many experts predict that fossil fuels will remain a major source of power generation well into the 21st century.
While it’s true that most people don’t realize how much energy goes into powering our homes, businesses, and transportation systems, it’s important to understand that energy isn’t just limited to electricity and gas.
Many industries rely on energy sources such as coal, oil, natural gas, nuclear, wind, solar, and hydroelectricity to produce goods and provide consumer services.
The good news is that there are thousands of different types of energy jobs, ranging from entry-level positions to management roles. You can even find jobs in renewable energy like solar and wind.
However, while some energy jobs require little formal education, others require a degree in engineering or science. So, what kinds of degrees do employers look for in job applicants?
And what does the typical education path look like? Let’s take a closer look at the career options available to those interested in working in the energy industry.
Engineering
Engineers are problem solvers. They use science and math to solve complex challenges. Their job requires them to think critically, collaborate effectively, communicate clearly, and analyze data.
Engineering is about solving problems through scientific principles.
If you want to become an engineer, consider pursuing one of the following degrees: chemical engineering, civil engineering, computer engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, aerospace engineering, architecture, materials science, physics, mathematics, statistics, chemistry, biology, environmental science, geology, oceanography, meteorology, robotics, software development, systems analysis, or transportation engineering.
Mathematics
Math skills are very important for engineering and science careers. A lot of math knowledge and experience are required for energy-related positions. Mathematics is an essential part of most energy jobs.
Management & Business
Energy jobs are growing rapidly across North America. There are over 2 million job openings within the industry today. With such a high demand for skilled workers, it makes sense to consider getting into the field.
The energy industry offers various positions, ranging from oilfield work to pipeline construction. Some people find themselves working in the office while others enjoy the outdoors.
Regardless of what you do, you’ll likely manage a team of employees. This includes hiring and firing, scheduling shifts, and training new hires.
A good leader must possess several qualities. They must be able to motivate others, communicate effectively, and understand how to handle difficult situations. Whether you’re leading a small group or overseeing a huge operation, these skills are essential.
Information Technology
Energy companies are looking for skilled IT workers who can use software applications to analyze data. They want people who understand how computers operate and can write code to make those systems function properly.
The demand for such skills is growing rapidly because many energy companies are collecting vast information about their operations and sharing it with each other. This allows them to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
Many of the most common positions involve working with databases, writing programs to automate tasks, and creating visualizations of large datasets. Other roles include helping design and build new technologies, troubleshooting problems, and developing training materials.
Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, etc.)
Many people don’t know what careers there are in the sciences. Some of the most common jobs include research scientist, biochemist, chemist, physicist, engineer, geologist, biologist, and environmental scientist. These are just some examples of how science impacts our lives every day.
Why Choose a Career in Oil and Gas Production?
There are plenty of opportunities in oil and gas production. People often assume that those in oil and gas are just doing physical labor. But there are many different types of roles within the industry.
You might be responsible for managing many wells, or you could be helping develop technologies that improve efficiency. Whatever role you take, it’s important to understand how much responsibility you’ll have.
Many jobs in the oil and natural gas industry require manual labor. This means you’re likely to spend most of your day performing tasks like digging holes, operating heavy machinery, or cleaning up spills.
While some positions do include office duties, others require little interaction with anyone outside of your team.
Some oil companies are massive, while others are small, local businesses. Most employees will never meet one another, though some larger companies offer training programs to help employees learn about the industry. You’ll need to earn a degree or certification to advance in the field.
While many think of oil and natural gas production as just another job, it’s considered a career path. To qualify, you must complete training and education.
This usually involves earning a high school diploma or Ged. Depending on the position you apply for, you might need additional certifications such as CPR, First Aid, or OSHA Training.
A high school diploma or GED is enough to start work in the oil and natural resources industry. However, employers prefer candidates with bachelor’s degrees because they know that college graduates tend to be better trained and prepared for the rigors of the job.
Impact of COVID on the Oil and Gas Industry
In June 2020, fewer people were working in the oil & gas industry than expected. Why? Because of the coronavirus pandemic.
There were significant layoffs in the energy services sector. Companies had to close production facilities, lay off workers, and sell assets.
A lot of companies have been pushed into bankruptcy because of the coronaviruses.
The impact of the virus is still being felt today.
Is the oil & gas industry dying?
The oil and gas industry is still thriving despite the current state of affairs. There are several reasons why you might want to consider getting into the oil and gas industry, including:
1. A great career opportunity
2. Steady income
3. Flexibility
4. High demand
5. Low competition
6. Good pay
Future of the oil & gas industry
The energy sector is expected to remain strong over the next few years. The International Energy Agency predicts global oil demand will increase by nearly one million barrels per day by 2040.
However, the number of employees employed in the industry will decline by about 40,000. This is due to automation replacing human workers. At the same time, the number of job openings in the industry will rise by almost 200,000. As a result, there will be plenty of work for those looking to enter the field.
Career Growth Opportunities In The Oil & Gas Production Industry
The oil and gas production industry offer some of the best career growth opportunities in the United States. This includes both entry-level positions and management roles.
Here are some tips to consider if you want to advance your career within the oil and gas production industry.
1. Be Prepared To Work Hard
In most cases, people who enter the oil and gas production field do so because they love working hard. They like being around people who take pride in their work and appreciate the value of a good day’s work.
2. Consider A Career Change
If you don’t like getting up early every morning, think about changing careers where you can work flexible hours.
For example, you could become a petroleum engineer, geologist, geophysicist, or reservoir technologist. These jobs require technical expertise, but they offer plenty of flexibility.
You can choose to work full-time during normal business hours, or you might even be able to find part-time employment that allows you to keep your current lifestyle.
3. Find Out What Kind Of Training Is Needed
Different levels of training are required depending on whether you want to start out as an operator or a supervisor.
Both positions require basic mechanical aptitude, math ability, and communication skills. However, operators must learn how to safely handle equipment, while supervisors must develop leadership qualities.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What do I need to study to become an engineer?
You don’t necessarily need a bachelor’s degree to enter the field. Many engineers start out as high school graduates, while others hold associate degrees.
You’ll also find people working as engineers without a formal education.
The median annual wage for engineers was $122,340 in May 2018. In addition to earning a good salary, engineers enjoy excellent benefits, including health insurance and retirement plans.
Do I need a four-year degree to become an engineer? What type of engineering programs are offered at colleges and universities?
What is the highest-paying job in the oil and gas industry?
A project manager oversees all aspects of a company’s operations. They manage projects, coordinate team members, and often work directly with clients.
The highest paying jobs in oil and gas are project managers. The average annual pay of these professionals is $157,795 per year.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the employment of petroleum engineers is expected to grow 10% over the next decade.
Project managers oversee the entire process of building and operating a facility. This includes managing budgets, scheduling, hiring, training, and evaluating employees.
Project managers work closely with engineering teams, construction contractors, and client representatives.
In addition, they must ensure that deadlines are met while maintaining quality control standards.
Are oil and gas a dying field?
The oil and gas industry is booming. It’s one of the few industries where employment numbers continue to grow. But there are some dangers workers face every day. And while there are many ways to prevent injuries, there are also ways to reduce the number of accidents.
What degree is best for the oil industry?
Petroleum engineers work for oil companies. They design pipelines, refineries, wells, and many other things related to crude oil production. This degree is good for those interested in working in the oil and gas industry or petroleum engineering. A Bachelor’s Degree in Petroleum Engineering Will Help You Land An Entry Level Position In The Oil Industry
A bachelor’s degree in petroleum engineering will give you a solid foundation for your career. You will learn about the science behind how we extract oil from the ground and refine it. If you want to enter the oil industry, you could work in several fields. You might even end up designing pipelines, refineries, or wells.
Final Thoughts: Is Oil and Gas Production a Good Career Path?
The short answer is: Yes.
The oil and gas industry is one of the most exciting industries in the United States. This is because there are many jobs within this field, including drilling engineers, geologists, petroleum scientists, project managers, well site supervisors, safety officers, pipeline operators, and even sales representatives.
Many people consider this industry one of the best careers because of the high demand for skilled workers, the wide range of job options, and the opportunity for rapid career advancement.
Oil and gas production is a big part of our economy. It’s one of the most important industries in America.
The oil and gas industry requires employees willing to grow, adapt, and advance within the organization. This includes being able to learn new skills and acquire new knowledge.
As technology continues to evolve, so does how we operate in our businesses. In addition, it is important to understand what type of environment you want to work in.
While some industries offer attractive financial benefits, others require hard work. However, there are many opportunities for those seeking to excel in the field.
Skilled workers, a wide range of job options, and the opportunity for rapid career advancement.
