How to become a Petroleum Engineer

How to become a Petroleum Engineer Thinking about becoming a Petroleum Engineer? It’s in the pipeline… Petroleum Engineers help locate and extract oil and gas deposits, finding the most efficient ways to use the natural resources which sit beneath the Earth’s surface.They can be found working within almost all the various stages of the oil and gas process, including completion, drilling and production, and may specialise in a number of different areas, such as geology, evaluation and exploration, or construction and extraction.Without Petroleum Engineers we wouldn’t be able to fuel our cars, heat our homes, or even manufacture products like shampoos cosmetics, making their job a vital part of our everyday lives.Typical responsibilities for a Petroleum Engineer include:Working with Geoscientists to help locate oil and gas depositsPredicting production potential, minimising costs and planning performanceDesigning reservoirs and piping systemsOverseeing constructionTesting installations, improving efficiency and performing quality controlMitigating and minimising environmental impactIs it right for me?Aside from technical capability, it will take excellent analytical skills in order to become a Petroleum Engineer, especially when planning costs and forecasting potential risks.For the first few years, you’ll generally be working on a rig site for the majority of your time, which may be onshore or offshore. Flexibility, and the ability to work away from home for large periods of time, will be similarly key to your success.Other key skills for a Petroleum Engineer include:Excellent mathematical skillsNatural business acumenAttention to detailCreativityA passion for problem solvingA good level of physical fitnessThe ability to work well under pressureWhat's it really like? I initially wanted to work in engineering because I wanted to travel around. Which, in retrospect, wasn’t the greatest thing to build you career on â€" but luckily for me, it worked out pretty well. I spent my first few years on a range of different projects, mainly in the Middle East, which was pretty amazing. The hours were long at first, but now it’s much more of the typical 9-to-5. My favourite part of being a Petroleum Engineer is being able to put my problem solving skills to the test, and coming up with solutions that could save thousands. Also, the money is pretty good. You know, if you like that kind of thing… Get qualifiedTo become a Petroleum Engineer you will need a degree or postgraduate qualification, generally in an engineering discipline. A certified course will allow you to stand out from the crowd too.