The oil and gas industry employs millions of workers worldwide, making it a competitive industry to get involved in. As with any industry, there are things to consider: which aspect of the field would you want to get involved in? Do you have the experience necessary to join the business? Are you aware of the pros and cons that come with the job? Here are some things you need to know before breaking out into the oil and gas business.

 

It’s not all that daunting.

 

No matter your experience, education, current job, or job history, there are plenty of job types within the oil and gas industry that are available to choose from. From pipeline jobs like welding engineers to talent acquisition managers, you can put your past experience and education to good use thanks to transferable skills. So long as you have the skill and are willing to learn, you’ll be golden.

 

Figure out your interests.

 

As mentioned, there is a wide variety of job opportunities in the oil and gas industry that don’t revolve around offshore rigs and drilling platforms. Planning out and developing a business in the industry requires many different people with different skillsets to accomplish: designers to get them through the conceptual stage of development, for example. The vast majority of jobs will be centered around engineering, but that’s not a stagnant job either—it takes a team of people doing different jobs to run like a well-oiled machine. 

 

Plus, think of all the experience you’ll gain in your field by getting jobs with companies such as Shell, ExxonMobil, and Chevron.

 

Weigh the pros and cons.

 

Every job has its positives and negatives, and getting involved with the oil and gas industry is no exception. This field, in particular, is ever-changing to meet with the demands of the energy industry. By being part of the oil and gas industry, you’ll have the opportunity to work with people globally, as travel isn’t restricted to one country only. This will let you see the world while also giving your mind something to do. Likewise, you’ll have the flexibility of working on different assignments that will stretch your skillset.

 

On the other hand, having an international engineering job can take you far from your friends and family, need you to work long hours, give you tight deadlines, and require the flexibility that will accommodate the demands of whatever project you take on. Weigh the pros and cons that come with this job, and talk to those within the industry to get their perspective and mentorship before biting the bullet and applying for a job in the industry.