An array of workers in many industries hold petroleum-related positions.
Petroleum, also known as oil, is an essential resource used in daily life in most areas of the world. It is used for a variety of purposes such as gasoline and heating oil and to make many types of plastics. Petroleum is used in a variety of applications, and many individuals build careers in the petroleum industry.
Petroleum Engineer
A petroleum engineer creates ways to remove petroleum from underground deposits. He collaborates with other professionals such as geologists to identify important geological information about the rock and landscape that surrounds the petroleum to establish effective and safe drilling techniques. He also plans for equipment and procedures to extract oil and gas most profitably. A petroleum engineer must create and implement advanced retrieval techniques, because only a small amount of petroleum flows naturally out of reservoirs. Advanced extraction methods include injecting water, steam and chemicals into the reservoir to force more petroleum out. A petroleum engineer also conducts research to find new petroleum recovery techniques and develop better technology. A bachelor's degree in petroleum engineering is the minimum requirement for a position as a petroleum engineer. According to PayScale.com, as of 2010, annual salary for petroleum engineers is between $84,067 and $143,624.
Petroleum Pump System Operator
A petroleum pump system operator oversees petroleum refining and processing. She observes the necessary equipment such as meters, gauges and process indicators to identify and troubleshoot potential problems. She starts pump systems and operates mechanical equipment to regulate oil flow into pipes and storage containers. She also uses systems to move fluids through petroleum refineries and regulates specific aspects of the process including pressure, temperature and circulation rate. A petroleum pump system operator must have at least a high school diploma, but many professionals complete industry educational programs. As of 2010, according to PayScale.com, petroleum pump system operators with one to four years' experience earn average annual salaries between $26,400 and $56,000.
Petroleum Economist
A petroleum economist analyzes economic data of the petroleum industry to evaluate the risks of new business ventures and current operations, assisting companies with strategic decisions. He assesses the risks and viability of a project and assists with investment analysis. He applies a variety of analysis methods and creates scenarios and alternative courses of action. A petroleum economist must have at least a bachelor's degree, and many employers prefer a master of business administration degree. According to Indeed.com, as of 2010, petroleum economists earn average salaries of $100,000 per year.
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