The industry of oil exploration involves determining the location of liquid crude oil deposits, which are usually hidden below the surface of the earth. As crude is seldom visible on land, oil companies must leverage a knowledge of geology, geography and chemistry to calculate the most likely sites for deposits. They must then dig test wells to determine if their guesses are correct. This industry includes thousands of different people holding dozens of different positions.
Geologist
Perhaps the most important profession in exploring for oil is that of the geologist. Crude oil, which was generated millions of years ago, only exists in certain types of rock formations. Geologists are responsible for looking at survey data and rock samples to determine where oil is most likely to be found. These geologists must also work with engineers to plot the best way of both testing for the presence of oil and extracting it.
Land Agent
A land agent is responsible for gaining the rights to explore for oil and produce test wells on a particular piece of land. Land agents will generally contact the owners of the land and attempt to work out a deal whereby the company is allowed to drill in exchange for compensating the owners. In some cases, land agents may attempt to buy the mineral rights to a piece of land, meaning the company has the right to extract minerals from it.
Reservoir Engineer
A reservoir engineer is responsible for supervising the drilling of a particular test well. The engineer will attempt to optimize the drilling so that the maximum amount of oil is extracted. This requires a knowledge of geology, chemistry, and the mechanics of oil extraction equipment.
Energy Economist
In order for a well to be profitable, the cost of exploring for the oil, extracting it and then selling it must be less than the revenue generated by its sale. While many members of an oil company are on the ground exploring, energy economists are responsible for determining if a particular location has the potential to be profitable. The economist can determine this using a number of different variables, such as the expected amount of oil on the site and the logistics of bringing it to market.
Tags: knowledge geology, most likely, piece land, test wells
