Petroleum engineers work to produce oil and gas from below the earth's surface. To complete this work, petroleum engineers apply knowledge from a variety of academic backgrounds to successfully produce these important resources. Though the specific job requirements for a petroleum engineer vary depending on the employer, the general requirements for most positions are similar.
Education
Though advanced degrees are available, the majority of petroleum engineers possess a bachelor's degree in petroleum engineering. While studying petroleum engineering, a student will complete classes in advanced mathematics, chemistry, physics and geology, as well as classes dedicated specifically to the theories and processes of producing petroleum. Obtaining a master's or doctoral level degree in petroleum engineering may help graduates to secure more advanced engineer positions, or to advance into executive level positions within the petroleum industry.
Computer Skills
As drilling and production projects have increased in complexity, petroleum engineers needs to know run various computer programs to complete their work. For example, a petroleum engineer may use computer generated diagrams to determine where to locate a well and the best way to produce the resources. Engineers also use computer software to model how the oil or gas reservoirs will react to various extraction methods. For example, in some areas an engineer may decide to force water or other material into a well to push the oil to the surface. Computer models can help an engineer to determine what material will work best in a specific situation.
Communication Skills
Petroleum engineers often supervise the drilling of wells and the production of the oil or gas. Engineers must possess strong communication skills to coordinate with other professionals while planning drilling and production projects, and to direct and supervise the work of production employees. As the government heavily regulates the petroleum industry, engineers also need communication skills to explain proposed projects to government inspectors and others working in oversight capacities. In smaller companies, engineers may also complete other tasks, such as landowner negotiations that require effective communication skills.
Experience
Many petroleum engineering jobs require candidates to have industry-specific employment experience. Working in the petroleum industry or completing an internship while in college will help new graduates to have experience when they graduate. In addition to gaining experience while working with another engineer, a graduate may also attend formal education classes from the company to learn about the specific responsibilities of engineers within the company, and the technology used by the company. The demand for engineers is high, so many companies will hire graduates with a degree in petroleum engineering regardless of experience to assist experienced engineers.
Tags: petroleum engineering, communication skills, degree petroleum, degree petroleum engineering, petroleum industry
