Creativity is a quality more often
associated with artists than engineers,
but petroleum engineers need it—
to develop new ways
to extract oil and gas
from below the Earth’s surface,
and make old oil wells more productive.
Oil and gas deposits
reside deep in rock formations,
accessible only by drilling wells
on land or at sea.
Petroleum engineers work with other scientists
to map geological formations
and determine drilling methods,
design equipment, run the drilling plan,
and monitor operations.
These engineers analyze data
to anticipate flaws or complications
in a drilling plan before a project begins.
They work hard to consider
all potential issues,
and to quickly address problems
that do occur.
Most petroleum engineers
work in the oil industry…
though some work in related manufacturing,
or manage companies in the oil industry.
They generally work in offices
or research laboratories,
as well as at drilling sites
to monitor operations—
often for extended periods.
Petroleum engineers work around the world,
and must work effectively with people
from a wide variety of backgrounds.
Full-time hours are typical,
and overtime is common.
Hours are longer at drill sites.
Employers prefer candidates
with a bachelor’s degree
in petroleum engineering,
although some accept a degree
in mechanical or chemical engineering as well.