What the work is
An oil and gas engineer works at one stage of the hydrocarbon chain: exploration and drilling, production in the field, pipeline transport or processing. They monitor how wells and equipment are running, analyse sensor data, plan repairs and work to raise output, and follow strict industrial and fire safety rules.
A typical day
Reviewing the past day’s well pressure and flow data. A site visit to check the equipment with the operators. Issuing a hot-work permit after a gas test. Preparing a proposal for a well repair with the economics worked out. A meeting with the geologists on the work plan.
How to start
- Learn the core subjects: field development, drilling, pipeline transport or processing.
- Study industrial safety requirements and permit-to-work procedures.
- Do an internship in a field, a service company or a design firm.
- Be ready for rotational shifts and work in the field.
Related professions
Mining engineer, occupational safety engineer, mechanical engineer, power engineer.