Is oilfield services/brokers/service a good career path
If you are considering becoming a service worker in the oilfield industry, it’s essential to understand whether this will be a good career path. Before you leap into this career field, ask yourself questions about your personal goals and motivations for choosing this type of work. Are you interested in long-term employment with one company? Do you want to go into management? This article provides information on choosing whether oilfield services/brokers/service is the right career path for you.
What is the job outlook?
Careers in the Oil & Gas Industry are on the rise. Professionals with engineering or technical expertise are in high demand, as well-to-do companies and countries vie for global dominance in this field. The job outlook is favorable because there is an ongoing need for skilled workers to address the ever-growing list of projects currently underway across the globe. However, job prospects vary by region. For example, international projects may require workers with specific skills that would be less needed in other regions.
What are some of the benefits?
Oil field services and brokers offer the opportunity to work with one of the fastest-growing industries in the United States. In 2018, drilling activity grew 8% over 2017 to reach 16,361 wells drilled. The offshore drilling market has also grown; in 2018, companies in the Gulf of Mexico approved nine new deepwater projects. These projects have an estimated cost of $6 billion and will add more than 4 million barrels per day (mbd) to global production.
This growth makes jobs available at every level, from engineers and geologists to laborers and truck drivers.
There are many opportunities for advancement: an engineer can move into management or sales, whereas an operator can become a rig foreman or a superintendent on larger crews. A driller can move up the ladder into toolpusher or rig manager positions.
How do I get a job in the oil industry?
There are several ways to enter the oil industry, including colleges and universities offering degrees in engineering or business. You can also enroll in courses at these schools and participate in programs, such as on-campus consulting, that provide experience and connections with executives in the industry.
The best way to get a job is to network and have skills that you can use, such as being bilingual or having an accounting background. Some people also find work as a consultant, who may work for other companies or independent operators. Some of the most common jobs within this field include geologist, petroleum engineer, petroleum production operator, petroleum engineer, and drilling engineer.
Do you need education or certifications?
Oil field workers must be skilled in areas such as heavy machinery, welding, and hydraulic equipment. However, you can make the transition with the proper training and certification. It would help if you had reliable transportation to get out into the field. The best way to learn is by doing, so it’s recommended that you volunteer at an operating site and try different positions before deciding on your preferred job category.
What kind of equipment do you need?
The most important thing to have is a computer. The best computer would be one that runs on Windows XP and has 2 GB of RAM with 524MB of RAM available for programs you are running at the time. You will also need an internet connection, if not have the company pay for it in your contract with them. You should have a smartphone because they are handy while on the road to send text messages or look up an address if you don’t feel like taking out your map book all the time.
How much will it cost you (upfront)
It depends on the company you are looking to work for. Generally, an up-front cost ranges from $1,000 to $5,000. Some companies require only a one-time payment, and others require monthly payments.
I have found it is worth it because of the flexibility this type of job provides. You can make your schedule, take time off when needed, and not have to be on-site every day like most jobs.
The downside is that there is no stability in this type of position, so you will never know how much money you will make weekly or monthly.
Why do you want to be in the oil and gas industry?Is oilfield services/brokers/service a good career path
Explaining why you want to be in the industry can help convince potential employers that this is something you will stick with. If your answer is because it pays well, mentions ways you plan on earning money for your company and what aspects of the industry interest you. If you are looking for an adventure, mention what kind of experiences have made you interested in the industry.
Does this sound like something you would enjoy doing?
Like any other industry, the oil and gas industry will always have room for new people with different skills. While it’s essential to take the time to find something you are passionate about, it’s also important to be realistic. Many of us might think that working on an offshore rig sounds cool, but it takes a lot of knowledge and experience to work on these rigs, so most employers only hire someone if they have worked in the industry for years before starting as an intern or apprentice.
Can you make enough money in this field?
It is no surprise that oil fields are in high demand. However, starting a company in this field is not an easy process. Expect to devote years of your life to the project, even if you have multiple people working with you. But it can be advantageous if you have it running and start seeing profits. You will work hard but get paid well for it. Plus, as more companies continue to enter the market, competition will increase, meaning more money for those who were one of the first ones in!
Is there room for advancement?
Is oilfield services/brokers/service a good career path: Opportunities for advancement in the oil and gas industry depend on where you work. If you work in exploration or production, there is potential for advancement to high-level executive positions. The engineering and maintenance sectors offer fewer opportunities to advance due to the proliferation of more experienced talent. Employment with an operator or service company offers opportunities for more excellent financial stability without pursuing high-level positions requiring higher education.