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Are you thinking to get employed in the oil and gas industry? It’s surely a fantastic idea because jobs in the oil and gas industry have a popular demand all over the world.
But, getting there is definitely not a piece of cake as it demands a lot of experience and schooling (Master’s, Ph.D.) for highly specialized jobs such as marketing and public relations, business administration, engineering, etc.
However, if you are a beginner, you must be wondering how to get a job in the oil and gas industry with no experience? The good news is that you don’t always require a degree or previous work experience to get into this industry.
You just need a strong work ethic and have to begin from the bottom and work your way up the ladder.
Tips to Get a Job In the Oil and Gas Industry
1. Discover the role that suits you the best
There is a vast number of roles available in the oil and gas industry. You can do a thorough online search on the following categories and figure out which role matches your skills and qualifications:
- Office jobs in the oil and gas industry
- Sales jobs in the oil and gas industry
- Office administration jobs in the oil and gas industry
- Safety jobs in the oil and gas industry
- Security jobs in the oil and gas industry
2. Build connections and find a mentor
Connect with professionals and seek out a mentor from familiar circles. Establish a strong bond with them as they can help you with referrals and give generous career-related advice.
3. Get an internship or training
Internships or training are an excellent way to gain experience. It multiplies your chances to get a job.
4. Make a perfect resume
Make a resume that addresses your skills and experience relevant to the job. Keep it simple and concise. Use clear fonts with no to very little color.
5. Brush up your soft skills
Try to have a strong command of communication skills and leadership abilities as they are highly regarded by employers.
6. Prepare well for the interview
Get a good night’s sleep, and dress conservatively for the big day. Eye contact and good body language can get you through, so make sure you are calm and attentive to the interviewer.
Entry-Level Jobs In the Oil and Gas Industry
1: What is the primary purpose of a refinery in the oil and gas industry?
Jobs in the oil and gas industry consist of a wide variety of entry-level positions. Entry-level jobs are the ones that demand little to no experience at all. However, basic education is required that does not involve a four-year degree. Besides that, you need to possess a few basic physical skills to actively perform your duties.
These are some of the entry-level jobs in the oil and gas industry:
- Floorhands
- Drillers
- Truck Drivers
- Welders
- Diesel Mechanics
- Field Technicians
- Operation Technicians
- Heavy equipment operators
- Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) claims analysts
- Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) field workers
Skills and Qualifications Required for People With Experience
Below are some of the common qualifications you require to easily get a job in the oil rig or gas industry:
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Earth Sciences
- Geology
- Engineering (chemical, petroleum, mechanical, electrical and environmental)
Apart from that, a person must possess a certain set of skills. They are:
1. Data Analysis Skills
The person must be able to collect, comprehend, translate and present a never-ending stream of data that must be thoroughly analyzed to make rational, logical, and cost-effective decisions.
2. Managerial Skills
The person must be able to implement effective delegation strategies and set goals and policies in line with industrial handbooks and company regulations.
3. Mathematical and Computer Skills
The person must have exceptional mathematical and computer abilities to ascertain the most profitable gas and oil extraction methods. These coincide with reading and interpreting data.
4. Communication Skills
The person should be good in communication and language skills, as this attribute is highly regarded by employers and is the need of the industry.
What are the best places to look for Oilfield Jobs?
One of the biggest mistakes most people do is that they just submit their resumes to multiple companies and then wait for the response. Twiddling your thumbs in the hope to get called for an interview is definitely not going to work out.
Here are some of the tips you can use to get your foot in the door:
Use Your Contacts
Many managers ask their experienced employees for possible applicants on a regular basis. The employees then suggest all the candidates who are in their sight and it becomes easier for the applicants to get a chance.
So, if you want to begin your career in the oil and gas industry, seek recommendations from those in your contacts who already work in one of these industries. This is one of the simplest ways to get noticed as your contacts can give you an edge in securing an interview and getting an entry-level job in construction or oil and gas industry.
However, it becomes a hard nut to crack if no one from your contacts belongs to the oilfield industry. But still, you can reach out to your acquaintances, family, and friends and ask if they know anyone who currently works in the oilfield. If so, get in contact with that person and ask them to vouch for you as word of mouth goes a long way!
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Social Media
Social media is another best platform to look for jobs in the oil and gas industry. It also helps you to expand your circle and get in touch with field-related persons.
Get on LinkedIn and connect with people who work at your desired company. Keep in touch with them and ask all your queries.
Moreover, you can also follow pages and join groups related to oilfields on Facebook. Engage in group discussions and keep an eye on the referrals. In this way, you will be updated on the opportunities as they arise. Apart from that, you can also ask your friends or family members to tag you on job-related posts.
List of 17 Best Paying Jobs In Oil & Gas Production
Getting a job in the Oil and Gas Industry can be difficult, however, if you are lucky enough then these are some of the best paying jobs in the oil rig and gas industry in Canada along with their national and region-wise average annual income:
- Project Manager
- Drilling Supervisor
- Construction Manager
- Petroleum Geologist
- Geophysicist
- Mechanical Engineer
- HSE Manager
- Excavating Engineer
- Project Engineer
- Production Engineer
- Gas Plant Operator
- Well Testers
- Chemical Engineer
- Petroleum Sales Representative
- Vessel Manager
- HR Advisor
- Lease Operator
1. Project Manager
The Project Manager is tasked with ensuring that an entire project from start to finish is on track, on budget, to specifications, and within safety guidelines. The Project Manager’s job also ensures that communication is flowing between groups.
The average Project Manager salary in Canada is $82,808 per year.
Region-Wise Salary of Project Manager in Canada
| REGION | AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY |
|---|---|
| Ontario | $93,322 |
| Alberta | $89,539 |
| British Columbia | $85,847 |
| Manitoba | $81,081 |
| Saskatchewan | $75,755 |
2. Drilling Supervisor
Drilling Supervisors are in charge of the drill operations and make sure that drilling work is completed properly and on schedule. They often work alongside a management team while the planning of a project’s operations is being developed.
The average Drilling Supervisor salary in Canada is $82,729 per year.
Region-Wise Salary of Drilling Supervisor in Canada
| REGION | AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY |
|---|---|
| Ontario | $83,585 |
| Alberta | $90,987 |
| British Columbia | $110,000 |
| Manitoba | $69,102 |
| Saskatchewan | $85,181 |
3. Construction Manager
The Construction Manager is responsible for delivering construction in accordance with HSE requirements and schedule. They work closely with the Project Manager in leading teams to manage and control construction projects.
The average Construction Manager’s salary in Canada is $80,478 per year.
Region-Wise Salary of Construction Manager in Canada
| REGION | AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY |
|---|---|
| Ontario | $85,000 |
| Alberta | $90,000 |
| British Columbia | $80,000 |
| Manitoba | $77,279 |
| Saskatchewan | $75,000 |
4. Petroleum Geologist
Petroleum Geologists search for and discover oil and gas deposits within the earth. They use geological information to analyze which sites companies should drill for oil and recommend the best drilling methods depending on the geological makeup of the area.
The average Petroleum Geologist’s salary in Canada is $161,946 per year.
Region-Wise Salary of Petroleum Geologists in Canada
| REGION | AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY |
|---|---|
| Ontario | $150,672 |
| Alberta | $152,460 |
| British Columbia | $150,311 |
| Manitoba | $126,053 |
| Saskatchewan | $157,552 |
5. Geophysicist
A Geophysicist studies the physical aspects of the earth in order to determine what lies beneath the surface of the earth.
The average Geophysicist salary in Canada is $75,000 per year.
Region-Wise Salary of Geophysicists in Canada
| REGION |
AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY |
|---|---|
| Ontario | $74,289 |
| Alberta | $95,716 |
| British Columbia | $138,036 |
| Manitoba | $68,859 |
| Saskatchewan | $116,672 |
6. Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical Engineers are responsible to support plant equipment, design, development, installation, and maintenance of oil and gas processing equipment, emphasizing safety, reliability, quality, and sustainability.
The average Mechanical Engineer salary in Canada is $71,000 per year.
Region-Wise Salary of Mechanical Engineers in Canada
| REGION |
AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY |
|---|---|
| Ontario | $67,603 |
| Alberta | $79,931 |
| British Columbia | $69,284 |
| Manitoba | $66,528 |
| Saskatchewan | $71,290 |
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7. HSE Manager
Health, Safety, and Environmental Managers (HSE Manager) develop and implement organizational safety programs. They review and keep updated HSE policies, as well as conduct risk assessments and create precautionary measures.
The average HSE Manager salary in Canada is $100,000 per year.
Region-Wise Salary of HSE Manager in Canada
| REGION |
AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY |
|---|---|
| Ontario | $78,804 |
| Alberta | $76,364 |
| British Columbia | $83,954 |
| Manitoba | $69,473 |
| Saskatchewan | $90,000 |
8. Excavating Engineer
Excavating Engineer manages rig staff and is responsible for assessing and maintaining wells, ensuring safety measures are implemented, and is generally responsible for the financial and technical operations of drilling for oil or gas.
The average Excavating Engineer salary in Canada is $154,421 per year.
Region-Wise Salary of Excavating Engineer in Canada
| REGION |
AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY |
|---|---|
| Ontario | $116,000 |
| Alberta | $121,877 |
| British Columbia | $110,000 |
| Manitoba | $127,310 |
| Saskatchewan | $97,200 |
9. Project Engineer
Project Engineers ensure that design, construction, and major maintenance projects are completed securely, completed within budget, review progress reports and proposed construction changes, as well as monitor project progress for stakeholders.
The average Project Engineer salary in Canada is $85,698 per year.
Region-Wise Salary of Project Engineer in Canada
| REGION |
AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY |
|---|---|
| Ontario | $87,500 |
| Alberta | $89,539 |
| British Columbia | $84,094 |
| Manitoba | $83,749 |
| Saskatchewan | $85,416 |
10. Production Engineer
They are responsible for designing and selecting well equipment to bring it to production after drilling. They monitor the well as it flows to make sure it is efficient and still commercially viable.
The average Production Engineer salary in Canada is $74,100 per year.
Region-Wise Salary of Production Engineer in Canada
| REGION |
AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY |
|---|---|
| Ontario | $69,380 |
| Alberta | $95,482 |
| British Columbia | $73,863 |
| Manitoba | $66,935 |
| Saskatchewan | $97,037 |
11. Gas Plant Operator
Gas plant operator process and distribute gas for utility companies through compressors that maintain the pressure of pipelines. They may also distribute gas to industrial plants using control boards and semiautomatic equipment.
The average Gas Plant Operator salary in Canada is $80,091 per year.
Region-Wise Salary of Gas Plant Operator in Canada
| REGION |
AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY |
|---|---|
| Ontario | $81,917 |
| Alberta | $80,155 |
| British Columbia | $87,154 |
| Manitoba | $76,579 |
| Saskatchewan | $82,319 |
12. Well Testers
Well Tester performs evaluations and assessments of oil pipelines during the development phase to predict stability and risk levels. Well testing operator is a great career option in the oil and gas sector. We have covered a detailed guide on is Well Testing Operator a good career path.
The average Well Tester salary in Canada is $83,215 per year.
Region-Wise Salary of Well Tester in Canada
| REGION |
AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY |
|---|---|
| Ontario | $86,303 |
| Alberta | $85,968 |
| British Columbia | $80,652 |
| Manitoba | $79,584 |
| Saskatchewan | $77,634 |
13. Chemical Engineer
Chemical Engineers conduct a series of tests and evaluations to ensure companies use the correct chemicals to turn crude oil and petroleum into usable material.
The average Chemical Engineer salary in Canada is $80,000 per year.
Region-Wise Salary of Chemical Engineer in Canada
| REGION |
AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY |
|---|---|
| Ontario | $72,500 |
| Alberta | $84,451 |
| British Columbia | $85,750 |
| Manitoba | $76,558 |
| Saskatchewan | $74,733 |
14. Petroleum Sales Representative
Petroleum Sales Representatives sell finished goods for wholesalers and manufacturers to businesses and retailers.
The average Petroleum Sale Representative’s salary in Canada is $74,411 per year.
Region-Wise Salary of Petroleum Sales Representative in Canada
| REGION |
AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY |
|---|---|
| Ontario | $74,221 |
| Alberta | $80,963 |
| British Columbia | $77,141 |
| Manitoba | $66,956 |
| Saskatchewan | $68,105 |
15. Vessel Manager
These individuals oversee and ensure the safe operations of offshore drilling on oil and petroleum vessels.
The average Vessel Manager salary in Canada is $68,750 per year.
Region-Wise Salary of Vessel Manager in Canada
| REGION |
AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY |
|---|---|
| Ontario | $65,331 |
| Alberta | $66,436 |
| British Columbia | $93,078 |
| Manitoba | $51,456 |
| Saskatchewan | $84,003 |
16. HR Advisor
HR Advisors improve relations between management and employees by overseeing grievance procedures, employee investigations, and conflict resolutions.
The average HR Advisor salary in Canada is $69,369 per year.
Region-Wise Salary of HR Advisor in Canada
| REGION |
AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY |
|---|---|
| Ontario | $51,875 |
| Alberta | $67,500 |
| British Columbia | $65,199 |
| Manitoba | $63,212 |
| Saskatchewan | $73,729 |
17. Lease Operator
Lease Operators ensure that the oil and gas transported to and from drilling sites, processing plants, and gas stations make the trip safely and without damage.
The average Lease Operator salary in Canada is $52,000 per year.
Region-Wise Salary of Lease Operator in Canada
| REGION |
AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY |
|---|---|
| Ontario | $60,481 |
| Alberta | $61,016 |
| British Columbia | $64,422 |
| Manitoba | $49,012 |
| Saskatchewan | $54,555 |
How to get a job in the oil and gas industry
Here are five steps for how to get a job in this essential sector:
1. Fulfill basic requirements
Make sure to fulfill the basic requirements for jobs in the industry before applying for positions. Conduct preliminary research online to find out the typical expectations in your locality. Many employers require candidates to be at least 18 years of age, as oil and gas jobs typically involve adhering to strict health and safety regulations. It’s also usually important to employers that candidates have a high school diploma, GED or equivalent. If you can, focus on classes like science and math in high school to prepare for the duties of jobs in the oil and gas sector.
For some jobs, it may be necessary to have an undergraduate degree. For example, if you want to become a petroleum engineer, you can earn a degree in petroleum engineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering or a related field. If you want to become a geoscientist, it’s likely necessary for you to earn a degree in geoscience, environmental science or a similar concentration. Pursuing higher education can teach you valuable abilities and help you become a competitive candidate for more jobs.
2. Consider your interests
While many jobs in this sector involve direct, heavy labor, equipment operation or logistics, there are also other types of professionals in this industry who contribute to oil and gas production, like human resources representatives, IT support staff and accountants. It takes different team members to coordinate staff and activities, develop products, deliver services, attract customers and generate revenue for an oil and gas company. Consider your skills and interests so you can choose what area you want to join in this profession. Here are some common categories of oil and gas industry jobs:
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Industrial technology: Employees working in the field use industrial equipment and technology like gauges, pumps and drilling machinery to extract, contain and refine natural resources.
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Engineering: Engineers apply scientific and mathematical principles to design and manufacture tools, equipment and systems that solve problems in oil and gas extraction.
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Logistics and transportation: Those working in logistics and supply chain management are in charge of packaging and transporting and delivering oil and gas products in safe, efficient ways.
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Health and safety: Health and safety officers ensure field team members are adhering to proper safety protocols and following company standards and procedures.
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Information technology: IT professionals in this industry manage computer technology and software in the field or office, fixing bugs and assisting team members with technical processes.
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Human resources: The HR department of any company is in charge of supporting employee well-being and handling relations between an employer and their employees.
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Finance and accounting: Professionals who work in finance and accounting use their skills to document important company information, fulfill tax and legal requirements, reduce costs and generate revenue for the business.
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Environmental science: Environmental scientists study geological and environmental conditions to make recommendations about how the oil and gas industry can preserve and protect natural resources.
3. Participate in an internship or apprenticeship
Participate in an internship or apprenticeship opportunity program offered by an oil and gas company. This gives you the chance to meet people in the field, gain practical experience, build your resume and learn from advanced professionals. For associate or bachelor’s degree programs, it’s sometimes a graduation requirement to complete an internship. Here are some kinds of companies that may offer these opportunities:
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Oil drilling firms
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Energy providers
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Pipeline operators
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Equipment producers
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Transmission grid operators
4. Gain entry-level experience
Apply for entry-level jobs in the oil and gas industry to start gaining field experience and building your professional network. Try to find jobs like assistant or technician in which you can shadow and help a supervisor. Some examples of entry-level jobs in the field include oil field worker, roustabout hand and pipe fitter. With enough experience, you may be able to advance to supervisory positions like project manager.
5. Earn certifications
Earning industry certifications enables you to develop skills and expand your job prospects. These qualifications can also impress employers and increase your earning potential. Employers hiring for certain oil and gas jobs may require candidates to earn certifications and licenses for legal reasons. Study the job description carefully and check your state regulations to learn what credentials may be necessary. You can typically earn certifications from colleges, universities, professional organizations and other accredited groups. Here are some examples:
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Certified Pressure Vessel Inspector: Offered by the American Petroleum Institute (API), the API 510 Pressure Vessel Inspector program prepares candidates with knowledge involving the inspection, maintenance and repair of pressure vessels.
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Health and Safety Management for Construction: Offered by the National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH), the international certification for Health and Safety Management for Construction proves a candidate’s skills in adhering to best practices, minimizing workplace injuries and operating equipment safely.
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Drilling Well Control: Offered by the International Well Control Forum (IWCF), the Drilling Well Control program trains candidates in areas like offshore drilling and wells, onshore activities, working on well sites and operating equipment.
Get an Oil and Gas Job-oriented Training
Oil and gas job-oriented training programs from reputed institutions helps you a lot to get into the oil and gas industry. You will get basic level training and in-depth idea for the how the oil and gas industry work. You also get an idea about, what are the duties and responsibilities of major job roles within the industry. You can start getting into the work immediately after joining the job if you had attended the training programs. You can use certificates offered by the training institution as a recruiting tool. Certified professionals will always have an upper hand in the industry.
Some training institutes also provide job offers after the training programs. Entri App is one of the top app for Oil and gas job training.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1- What is the highest paying job in the oil and gas industry?
The highest paying job in the oil and gas industry is that of a Petroleum Geologist. The average Petroleum Geologist salary in Canada is $161,946 per year. Petroleum geologists search for and discover oil and gas deposits within the earth. They use geological information to analyze which sites companies should drill for oil.
2- How do I get into oil and gas offshore?
You’ll need to:
- complete basic offshore safety induction and emergency training.
- have an offshore medical certificate.
- be over 18 years of age.
3 - How can I get into the oil and gas industry?
4 - Who is eligible for offshore jobs?
5 -Which degree is best for oil and gas?
Petroleum engineering is a degree that’s highly sought by oil companies, as these grads typically have solid backgrounds in both math and science. The oil industry is also hiring chemical engineers, geologists, and mechanical engineers.
