Petroleum engineer jobs search the world for reservoirs containing oil or natural gas. Once these resources are discovered petroleum engineer jobs work with geologists and other specialists to understand the geologic formation and properties of the rock containing the reservoir, determine the drilling methods to be used and monitor drilling and production operations.
Petroleum engineer jobs design equipment and processes to achieve the maximum profitable recovery of oil and gas. As only a small proportion of oil and gas in a reservoir flows out under natural forces, petroleum engineers develop and use various enhanced recovery methods. These include injecting water, chemicals, gases or steam into an oil reservoir to force out more of the oil and doing computer-controlled drilling or fracturing to connect a larger area of a reservoir to a single well. Currently the best techniques in use today recover only a portion of the oil and gas in a reservoir therefore petroleum engineers research and develop technology and methods to increase recovery and lower the cost of drilling and production operations.
How do you become a Petroleum Engineer?
To become a petroleum engineer, a bachelors degree must be held, although some employers may ask for a masters degree. This degree can be in petroleum engineering, chemical engineering or mechanical engineering. These courses are likely to involve basic sciences such as chemistry, calculus, differential equations and physics.
Petroleum engineers salary will vary depending on skills and demand. They can expect to earn between £55,000 and £95,000.
Contact the Engineering Division Team
Email the Engineering Division at engineering@stafffinders.co.uk.