Building a career in the upstream oil and gas industry is no cake walk! Catering to its rapidly increasing demand, supplying the world with the energy it needs is essential to one of the largest industries globally . The complexity and demanding nature of work calls for industry professionals that meet a required criteria in terms of education and experience.
How can you work in the upstream Oil and Gas Industry?
You need to acquire relevant education, secure a degree in engineering or geology, finance, management or other technical skills depending on the role you are seeking. Pursuing advanced certification or degrees, online courses, attending workshops to keep up with changing market conditions, and technological advancements can help you adapt and polish your skills.
Non-technical skills are soft skills, such as communication and leadership that help professionals perform better. Working in the oil and gas sector is a highly challenging job and requires an extensive set of skills and training.
TECHNICAL SKILLS
At the core of upstream operations is the need for strong technical skills.
- A strong foundational knowledge of geological science, chemistry, various engineering disciplines, astrophysics, and mathematics amongst others is mandatory.
- An understanding of the earth’s subsurface structures, physical properties of reservoir rocks, fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and more, since this information helps analyze data and make well informed decisions quickly.
- Knowledge of computers, usage of different softwares, digital analysis programmes, recording data, necessary equipment, tracking a site’s developments are some of the basic requirements for almost any role.
- Familiarity with safety protocols, compliance with industry regulations, risk assessment and sustainable environmental practices. Stay updated with all critical developments.
- Knowledge of automation and AI tools to streamline operations and increase efficiency.
SOFT SKILLS
- Skills like leadership, adaptability, communication skills, problem-solving ability, negotiation techniques, team building, customer service aptitude, attention to detail, emotional intelligence, organizational acumen, and creative thinking abilities are conducive to excel and gain a competitive advantage.
- Strong verbal communication skills aid in public speaking and active listening, while writing proficiency is helpful for reports or memos to be written accurately.
- Interpersonal relationships with your colleagues and seniors can be instrumental in your journey towards success.
NETWORKING
- Networking can be a game changer not only in opening up great avenues, but also in providing you with support from others in the oil and gas industry. Professionals can attend conferences, workshops, join professional organizations, and online forums to connect with their peers.
- Networking also provides exceptional insights. You can learn from the experiences of others, and potentially discover and explore your own strengths and opportunities to advance your career.
- Cultivating good relationships with industry professionals helps build connections, and adds value to your reputation by adding trust.
TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE
- To find your footing and flourish in this dynamic sector, you need continuous learning and experience. Workers are required to reskill and upskill constantly. Seeking knowledge and adapting to technological and regulatory changes in the oil and gas sector are crucial to staying relevant and competitive.
- Some companies provide training regularly, to sharpen the skills of their employees.
- Good internships and entry-level jobs offer great exposure. This is where theoretical knowledge is ultimately applied and helps understand the operational nuances that can only be learned through experience.
- Seeking mentorship from experienced professionals can significantly accelerate skill development and your understanding of upstream operations in the industry.
MANAGEMENT SKILLS
- Planning, execution and management of complex projects are key in overseeing and efficient completion.
- Oil & gas professionals require management skills like understanding risk management, assessing financial information, overseeing projects, budgeting, supervising personnel, engagement with stakeholders, supply chain management, logistics, understanding legal regulations amongst others.
- Critical thinking is important to generate emergency response, as several responsibilities can unexpectedly sometimes branch off in other directions.
The modern upstream oil and gas industry requires a combination of skills and emerging competencies driven by advancement in technology and an emphasis on sustainability. To stay ahead of the curve, professionals must embrace continuous learning, adaptability, and a proactive approach to incorporating new technologies and practices into their work, that prepares them to tackle future challenges and seize new opportunities.
