Is oil and gas a good career?
John Hall
Updated on April 02, 2026
If you are planning to embark on a career in the oil and gas industry, or the wider energy sector, this industry offers a number of enticing benefits. Salaries for this sector are typically higher than average, and this is due to several factors, such as the educational background required.
What kind of jobs are in the oil and gas industry?
1) Geoscientists 2) Drilling Engineers/ Drilling Supervisors/Drillers
- Geoscientists.
- Drilling Engineers/ Drilling Supervisors/Drillers.
- Subsea Engineers.
- Subsurface and Completions Engineers.
- Pipeline and Piping Engineers.
- Marine Specialists / Engineers.
- Offshore Maintenance Technicians.
What is the best job in the oil and gas industry?
The top paying job in the oil and gas industry is the Project Manager, and it’s no wonder. The PM is tasked with ensuring that an entire project from start to finish is on track, in budget, to specifications, and within safety guidelines.
What is the highest paying job in the oilfield?
High-paying oil field jobs
- Gas plant operator. National average salary: $41,541 per year.
- Well testers. National average salary: $44,061 per year.
- Chemical engineer. National average salary: $63,844 per year.
- Sales representative.
- Petroleum geologist.
- Vessel manager.
- HR adviser.
- Drilling engineer.
Is there a future in oil and gas?
Glide path for oil and gas production. So, as a rough estimate, the numbers suggest a 32% drop in natural gas by 2035 and a 24% drop in crude oil production by 2040. The natural gas drop is based on a federal government goal, which will likely require a carbon-pricing mechanism to succeed.
What is the highest paying oilfield job?
Below is a list of some of the highest-paying oil field jobs with their primary duties and salary information:
- Gas plant operator. National average salary: $41,541 per year.
- Well testers.
- Chemical engineer.
- Sales representative.
- Petroleum geologist.
- Vessel manager.
- HR adviser.
- Drilling engineer.
What is the highest paid job on an oil rig?
The 10 most lucrative offshore platform jobs
- Offshore installation managers – $174,000-$247,000.
- Subsea/chemical process engineers – $75,000-$188,000.
- Geologists – $65,000-$183,000.
- Tanker captain – $75,000-$170,000.
Is it possible to change career from oil and gas?
Unfortunately, the oilfield industry has taken a tumble, and in some areas, job losses are increasing. This oil and gas slow-down could, of course, impact the stability of other sectors. Losing your job or actively seeking to change your career can both be scary endeavors; however, they can also be seen as opportunities.
Where can I get a job in the oil industry?
For instance, even though Northern Alberta has taken a substantial hit, there are positions in the United States and overseas. If you are willing to travel further distances, relocate, or work on offshore oil rigs, you may have better luck securing a new job.
What to do if oil and gas industry goes down?
Keep in mind your resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile are the only things that represent you in your absence. One opportunity that the downturn in the oil field affords you is the chance to apply for a job you always dreamed about but never ended up pursuing.
What should I include in a job application for oil and gas?
Include all pertinent information, including contact details, areas of expertise/core competencies, education and credentials, work experience, career accomplishments, professional development, and technology expertise.
