Is oilfield services & equipment a good career path? A career in the oilfield can be a lucrative position. There are so many opportunities within the industry, whether you’re working with industrial equipment, exploring the possibilities of your own business, or planning to take on broader management responsibilities.
But before you jump head-first into a new job, there is a key question you will have to consider: is this a good career path? The short answer is yes. This article will look at why oilfield careers are such good opportunities and the types of roles you may encounter. So, are you ready to find out more? Let’s move!
What Are Oilfield Services and Equipment?
Oilfield services refer to everything associated with drilling for oil and natural gas. The process of extracting these fuels from underground areas is an ongoing one. Numerous categories include water, chemicals, oil production, production support service, and equipment suppliers.
If you work in the oil and gas industry, you’re probably aware that oilfield equipment can vary depending on the service offered. Most equipment is used for exploration, extraction, process, and production. Some of the components that make up these services may include drilling rigs and trucks, hydraulic cement for casing pipes, cementing units for well completion systems, and drill bits for drilling in various formations during exploration or production activities.
What Are the Qualifications Required for Work in this Industry?
There is no shortage of jobs in the oilfield industry. Oil refineries, petroleum production, pipeline construction, and many other specialized occupations have created a market for people with numerous skills, from engineering to drilling to distribution. Here are some qualifications required for work in this industry:
- High School Diploma
While many jobs in the oilfield industry do not require a high school diploma. If you are looking to advance in the career field, it may be a good idea to earn your GED. It will help advance your education and give you an edge when applying for management positions or training programs.
- Certified or Non-Certified Operator Certification
If you are interested in working on drilling rigs or other machinery, operator certification is mandatory if you want to get hired by local drilling companies. You’ll receive this certification in one of two ways. Either go through a training program or apply and accept an apprenticeship program.
Why Are Oilfield Services and Equipment a Good Career Path?
Oilfield careers represent various opportunities, ranging from management positions to working directly with equipment. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects the growth rate in this field to be 33% by 2021. Many people have been moved by the devastation caused by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill disaster, causing them to feel obligated to support workers affected by this tragedy and those who continue to work in these fields. These professionals can learn skills that can lead them on many career paths, with many seeing their work as an enjoyable vacation. With new technologies entering the industry every day, these professionals are at the forefront of innovative solutions.
What Are Some of the Biggest Opportunities You May Face in a Career in The Oilfield?
Technology is a huge industry that’s continuing to grow and thrive. In recent years, the importance of this industry has been emphasized as people are becoming more connected than ever before. Many industries have fallen by the wayside in recent years and it’s important they’re brought back. Here are some of the benefits that come with working in this industry.
- The Opportunity to Contribute to Society
People in this industry are working hard to help people who may not have the means or opportunity to get what they need or want. All you have to do is look at the company Apple with Steve Jobs as a CEO. He had a vision for what he wanted and people thought it was crazy, but look at the great success Apple has had since then.
- The Opportunity to Work with Some of Your Favorite People
You may not have much in common with your coworkers. But some people would make an incredible addition to your social circle. Join groups, such as the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology. They will allow you to meet people who have the same interests and hobbies.
- You Could Make a Difference in This Industry
Many people are interested in psychology and enjoy helping individuals with their problems. As a business or organization grows, its employees will need to be on the same page. They’ll learn how to motivate and inspire them, which will help them thrive in this industry.
- You’ll Have the Opportunity for Growth Potential
One of the biggest reasons people head into all kinds of industries is to want to grow professionally, and this industry isn’t any different. If you’re going to grow into a successful leader, you will have to take on some big roles as you move forward in your career.
How Do You Get Started in The Oilfield Services and Equipment Field?
If you’re interested in oilfield services and equipment, you want to know what it takes to get your bearings in this field. It’s a drastic change from the other fields you’ve worked in. You need to know about the industry before you can enter. Oil field jobs are not just about oil. There’s more to it than what some may think. It’s all about the business of petroleum.
When you enter the oil field services, you require to undergo training and orientation. Once you decide on a job department, they will provide the information you need. And determine if you’re qualified for a position. If you want to enter this industry, you’ll need to sign a contract with them. You will also have to take an exam and then undergo training. Various departments require certain jobs. For example, if you’re an engineer, you’ll design wellheads and other specialized equipment. More experienced engineers may have to go out in the field and do work themselves.
How Much Money Can You Make in An Oilfield Career?
Every day, companies are becoming more aware of finding oilfield professionals who will work for less than market value. Many companies might want to hire a seasoned oilfield professional, but the cost is too high for many new hires. If you are looking for more opportunities as an oilfield professional, you can determine how much you will make during your career.
- Salary in the Oilfield
Oilfield salaries are based on the number of hours worked and experience. Salaries for experienced workers can range from $45,000 to $100,000 a year, often more than the average annual salary in many oilfield labor pools. It is worth noting that most oil field jobs have a great deal of responsibility involved, including cleaning up after the work day or preventing accidents by ensuring the safety of the company’s assets. These responsibilities are necessary if the property remains safe, but they can be very tedious and tiring for less experienced workers to do.
- Salary Trends in the Oil Industry
It is difficult to predict how much you will make as an oilfield worker. The oil industry is expanding rapidly, but salaries have been stagnant or even going down in some cases. With only a handful of major oil companies pumping out massive finances, it isn’t easy to maintain high pay rates in this industry. There are many reasons why the oilfield industry might not recognize the money that you are making. For example, if you log overtime hours, the company might not recognize your extra money as pay. Instead, these extra hours are often a vacation time.
What Challenges Could You Face When Pursuing an Oilfield Career?
Oilfield careers are constantly evolving with new technologies and techniques. Some of the most challenging aspects of this job are keeping up with the rapidly growing industry, finding the right employer, and having a diverse skill set. For example, if you want to become an oilfield geologist, you need three high school science classes and a college class in geology.
Unfortunately, many challenges come with being an oilfield professional, such as long work hours or even potentially staying away from home for weeks in remote locations such as North Dakota without any amenities at all. It is important to remember that being an oilfield professional is a challenging career, but it is also very rewarding. Another challenge facing people who wish to pursue an Oilfield Career is that the oil and gas industry is volatile.
Conclusion
Oilfield services and equipment can be a great career path if you are passionate about working with machines and the outdoors. There are many companies to choose from, so take your time deciding which one is a good fit for you and your desired salary. The field is constantly evolving, so new skills and knowledge are always required. With hard work and dedication, anyone can make a successful career in the oilfield services and equipment. So, what are you waiting for? Find a company you love today and start living your dream.
