Petroleum Engineers

What the job involves

• Conducts preliminary surveys of petroleum and natural gas deposits with prospectors, geologists, geophysicists, other scientists and engineers to determine the resources present, the feasibility of extracting the reserves, and the design and development of the extraction process
• Prepares operation and project cost estimates and production schedules, and reports the progress, production and costs compared to budget
• Assesses the natural, technical, financial and safety risks associated with the phases of the project development, construction and operations
• Co-ordinates the utilisation of labour and equipment consistent with efficiency targets, statutes, safety guidelines and environmental conditions
• Conducts research and provides advice on engineering operations for the exploration, location and extraction of petroleum and natural gas
• Determines location for drilling
• Decides on types of derrick and equipment including seabed platforms
• Devises methods of controlling the flow of oil and gas from wells

Key values of workers in Petroleum Engineers

• Independence

  Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.

• Achievement

  Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.

• Recognition

  Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.

• Support

  Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.

• Relationships

  Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.

Top skills required for workers in Petroleum Engineers

• Critical Thinking

  Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

• Active Listening

  Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

• Writing

  Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

• Speaking

  Talking to others to convey information effectively.

• Complex Problem Solving

  Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.