best paying jobs in oil & gas production

The oil and gas production industry offers a range of high-paying jobs for individuals with the right skills and qualifications. Some of the best-paying jobs in this field include petroleum engineers, drilling engineers, and production managers.

Petroleum engineers are responsible for designing and developing methods for extracting oil and gas from underground reservoirs. They analyze data and use their expertise to determine the most efficient and cost-effective methods for extraction. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for petroleum engineers was $137,720 in May 2020. To become a petroleum engineer, a bachelor’s degree in engineering is typically required, although some positions may require a master’s degree.

Drilling engineers are responsible for planning and overseeing the drilling operations in oil and gas fields. They design drilling programs, select drilling equipment, and ensure that drilling operations are carried out safely and efficiently. The median annual wage for drilling engineers was $115,590 in May 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. A bachelor’s degree in engineering is typically required for this role, with a focus on petroleum engineering or a related field.

Production managers oversee the day-to-day operations of oil and gas production facilities. They coordinate and manage the activities of production teams, ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations, and optimize production processes. The median annual wage for production managers in the oil and gas industry was $109,380 in May 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. A bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field is typically required, along with several years of experience in the industry.

Useful resource: Bureau of Labor Statistics – Occupational Outlook Handbook for Petroleum Engineers: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/petroleum-engineers.htm