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Petroleum engineer

Petroleum engineers are responsible for assessing the potential location, quantity and quality of hydrocarbon deposits; and for planning, managing and optimising extraction.

Approximately 78,900,000 barrels of oil are produced each day (approx. 4 billion tonnes every year)

Petroleum engineer job description: Typical employers | Qualifications and training | Key skills | Useful links | Find jobs and courses

Typical responsibilities include:

analysing geological data
interpreting well-logging results
ascertaining extraction risks
monitoring and evaluating reservoir performance
preparing reports and maps
developing oilfield production programmes
liaising with and advising managerial and technical staff
using specialist computer applications and mathematical models to maximise production.

Salaries can be very generous - often enhanced by large offshore and overseas bonuses and usually start at around £29,000 to £35,000. Travel both within the UK and abroad is common within the profession and certain roles will require frequent travel to offshore facilities.

Typical employers of petroleum engineers

Petroleum engineers work both on and off shore for oil and gas service/operating companies. Jobs are advertised online and in national newspapers and specialist publications such as TARGETjobs Engineering, Petroleum Review, Oil and Gas Journal, Offshore and the Journal of Petroleum Technology. Careers services and recruitment agencies also occasionally advertise positions.

Useful publications include: European Petroleum Directory, Offshore Oil and Gas Directory, and the FT Oil and Gas International Yearbook. Speculative applications are essential and it is advisable to apply early during the first term of your final year.

Qualifications and training required

An MEng degree in chemical engineering, mining, geology, physics, chemistry, mathematics or a relevant engineering discipline is normally required for entry into the profession. Many employers also expect a postgraduate qualification in petroleum/offshore engineering.

Relevant experience from vacation placements or by working in junior positions for a hydrocarbons company can be advantageous. Flexibility is required for international work but provides a rich experience of cultural environments.