Petroleum Geologist Career Overview

Duties and Responsibilities of a Petroleum Geologist

A petroleum geologist goes prospecting to find the next well, not out in the open, but in an office. They consult drilling (or scout ticket, which summaries all info about a well) and core records, well logs and associate data. He or she studies cross-sections and maps and runs simulations on the computer. The geologist is trying to determine the type of trap, composition of sedimentary rock surrounding the drilling site, porosity of the pay zone and if to expect very high pressure. He or she must then carefully cross-check the data and conclusions to ensure that the location has not been drilled previously, the company has a legal right to be there, it is the correct spot rather than the wrong place and any geological conditions or faulting will not interfere. He or she must then make a presentation to convince managers, engineers, bankers and investors in order to obtain financing. Next step is to make the presentation and sell his or her findings. If the geologist gets the necessary financial backing, the drilling of the well can begin. The geologist monitors the drilling and when completed hires a logging company to evaluate the hole. From the information contained in the log, the geologist will make a recommendation to either plug it or complete it.

A petroleum engineer may work hand-in-hand with a petroleum geologist in searching out natural gas and oil reserves, but he or she is more involved with the actual recovery of the oil or gas. Petroleum engineers are involved with developing and researching methods and technologies to maximize recovery at the lowest cost.

Here are some examples of responsibilities from CareerBuilder.com:

• 'Geologists will assist with evaluating the exploration of oil, gas and methane, as well as interpreting maps and data.'-Aerotek
• 'Work as a team to focus on deep gas exploration in the central Gulf of Mexico shelf. Interpret seismic data, correlate well logs, generate maps and make presentations regarding findings and recommendations.'-Agile1

Job Requirements

To work as a petroleum geologist requires at least a bachelor's in geology or applied geology specializing in petroleum geology or petroleum exploration. Most employers though prefer a master's degree. DPA (Division of Professional Affairs), part of AAPG (American Association of Petroleum Geologists) offers voluntary certification to petroleum geologists. Geologists must be familiar with geophysical techniques, structural geology, sedimentology and stratigraphy. Other desirable skills and abilities may include working well as a team member and computer modeling, analytical and computer skills. Since many jobs require international travel, knowledge of a second language can be beneficial. The following are real-life job requirements from Monster.com:

• 'Requirements include a bachelor's degree in geoscience, a working knowledge of petroleum geochemistry and basin modeling, strong interpersonal and organizational skills and experience with presenting to government agencies. Familiarity with petroleum industry software a plus.'-BHP Billiton
• 'A bachelor's degree in geology or a related field is required, master's degree preferred. Also must have the ability to integrate geoscience techniques with data to produce drilling opportunities and strong mapping and computer skills.'-Talent Tree

Employment Outlook

Employment for the broader field of geoscientists is expected to grow 22 percent between 2006 and 2016, which is faster than average for most occupations (www.bls.gov). Consulting has become more popular for geoscientists in recent years. Decreasing availability of known petroleum resources has made this job in higher demand, leading to less competition for jobs, especially for those with master's degrees. Governments employ 18 percent of all geoscientists, with that percentage likely to increase in upcoming years. The median salary of a geologist was $72,660 in May 2006. Petroleum geologists usually receive higher salaries, though their positions are more likely to be cut in the event of an economic downturn. Exploring petroleum for the government can also produce a higher salary. Beginning salary offers for graduates with bachelor's degrees in geology averaged $40,786 in 2007, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers. PayScale listed median yearly salaries for petroleum geologists with one-year of experience at $73,698 in March 2008.