Mudlogging Adventures
Mudlogging is a versatile job that requires a wide range of skills including analytical thinking and physical ability. From setting up and monitoring equipment to washing and cutting log cores, the breadth of mudlogging duties keeps things interesting. Be prepared to jump in at a moment's notice to switch gears when the geology gets exciting. The pay is great and the work an exciting adventure.
Safety
Safety is the number one job at any wellsite. Geologists who work on site need to have taken and passed CPR, first aid and standard OSHA safety classes. They're responsible for their own safety and for the safety of the equipment and instrumentation used on the job.
Equipment Set Up
Equipment set up is done by mudloggers. Whether on a rig at sea or at a remote logging trailer site, mudloggers lay cables and hoses that help analyze the constituent parts of well mud and rocks. Most sites require that you rig up and rig down at least once a day.
Ability to Travel
Many companies require that you can travel between onshore and offshore jobs. You'll usually be away from home for two to three weeks at a stretch. Duties will also require you to be on-call for 12-hour shifts.
Monitor Data and Instruments
Once equipment is set up you'll need to monitor it. For instance, cables in the mud track well data. They're hooked up to monitoring equipment, so you'll be spending a fair amount of time in front of a screen logging data.
Inspect Well Cuttings
Checking out and cutting core logs is a manual operation for mudloggers. You'll need to periodically process and inspect solids from the core logs. Sample cuttings are viewed through the microscope to note particular microfossils and minerals. Some samples may be saved for later use.
Cooperation
It's imperative that mudloggers get along with their colleagues and everyone else on the site. There's no room for prima donnas. You work as a team and help out where you're needed. Expect to wear more than one hat.
Prepare Reports
Typically at well sites, when you collect and monitor data, you'll also have to report on it. Software programs and proprietary company software will be used to present data in your company's particular format.
Tags: core logs, monitoring equipment, require that
