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Job outlook for petroleum production engineers in the United States
Are petroleum production engineer jobs in demand?
Petroleum production engineer job and salary trends over time
Petroleum production engineer jobs over time
Petroleum production engineer job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 71 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 90 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 105 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 105 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 103 | 0.00% |
Average petroleum production engineer salary over time
Petroleum production engineer salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $98,237 | $47.23 | --0.3% |
| 2024 | $98,516 | $47.36 | +0.4% |
| 2023 | $98,122 | $47.17 | +3.7% |
| 2022 | $94,624 | $45.49 | +3.2% |
| 2021 | $91,727 | $44.10 | --1.4% |
Petroleum production engineer jobs by state
Most common states for petroleum production engineers
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 204 | 29% |
| 2 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 522 | 17% |
| 3 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 318 | 17% |
| 4 | Vermont | 623,657 | 106 | 17% |
| 5 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 869 | 16% |
| 6 | Wisconsin | 5,795,483 | 858 | 15% |
| 7 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 1,174 | 14% |
| 8 | Indiana | 6,666,818 | 938 | 14% |
| 9 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 186 | 14% |
| 10 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 557 | 13% |
| 11 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 410 | 13% |
| 12 | Delaware | 961,939 | 123 | 13% |
| 13 | Ohio | 11,658,609 | 1,382 | 12% |
| 14 | Kentucky | 4,454,189 | 517 | 12% |
| 15 | Kansas | 2,913,123 | 341 | 12% |
| 16 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 806 | 11% |
| 17 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 782 | 11% |
| 18 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 646 | 11% |
| 19 | Maine | 1,335,907 | 152 | 11% |
| 20 | Idaho | 1,716,943 | 166 | 10% |
Petroleum Production Engineer job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of petroleum production engineer experts
University of Pittsburgh
University of North Dakota
University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
The University of Texas Permian Basin
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Xavier University
Colorado School of Mines
East Tennessee State University
University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Liberty University
Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
Northern Michigan University
Elon University
Marietta College
University of Maryland
University of Baltimore
What general advice would you give to a Petroleum Production Engineer?
Dr. Robert Enick: We will be moving away from fossil fuels toward increasing proportions of renewable energy during the 'energy transition'. However, even the most optimistic US Dept. of Energy's Energy Information Agency projections indicate that this transition will take many decades to complete. Therefore, the need to responsibly produce oil and natural gas is not 'going away' soon, even under the most optimistic scenarios, and the production of these resources is the main responsibility of PetE's.
What Petroleum Production Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Robert Enick: Petroleum engineers can have a wide variety of jobs; for example, Some of them become part of the teams that drill the wells deep into the earth to access layers of porous rock that contain natural gas or oil. Some PetE's arrive on site when the well is being drilled with tools that can be inserted into the well to determine if the well has penetrated porous rock layers containing natural gas or oil. Some PetE's will remain at a location for a long time once the wells in the area have been completed. After oil well production slows down and becomes uneconomic, it may make sense to inject a fluid into some wells to help push the oil into neighboring wells. In the US there are two favorite injected fluids. If the oil is very thick (high viscosity), then steam can be injected; as the steam condenses it heats the oil and makes it flow more easily. If the oil is very thin (low viscosity), then one can inject high pressure CO2 into the well. CO2 is a great solvent for oil and for enhanced oil recovery (EOR). PetE's design the injection strategies for these 'EOR' processes. In the past few decades there has been a surge in the production of natural gas and/or oil from 'unconventional' rock such as shale. PetE's are involved in every step of these processes.
What will help Petroleum Production Engineers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Robert Enick: Many people find petroleum engineering to be a very satisfying career because it produces the fuel that drives a substantial portion of the world economy. Petroleum engineers are also at the forefront of geologic disposal of CO2 in aquifers that is in its infancy now but it likely to grow dramatically in the immediate future. Petroleum engineering is also very appealing to people who enjoy 'hands-on' type of work and some travel. Petroleum engineers may also have the opportunity to work on off-shore platforms on a schedule that involves working 12-hr days for 7 days in a row, and then getting 2 weeks off. Some people may dislike petroleum engineering because it produces fuels that, once burned to generate heat or power, release CO2 into the atmosphere. Some consider petroleum engineering to be 'dirty' type of work. Some may think that given the interest in renewable energy that this field will not be around long enough for their career.
What Petroleum Production Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Andreas Michael Ph.D.: Bar none, the primary virtue of petroleum-engineering-degree holders must be a strong competitive advantage in the relevant jobs market, relating to oil and gas exploration and production. A strong focus on the basics of their 'trade' is what will make them 'good at their job' - completeness on all fronts.
What will help Petroleum Production Engineers increase their earning potential?
Andreas Michael Ph.D.: If you want to enjoy success in petroleum engineering, you have to stay in the field long-term, making sure you grow deep, solid 'roots.' Retention matters. Historically, truly successful individuals held a well-balanced, multifaceted domain knowledge within the field.
What Petroleum Production Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Todd Allen: - analyzing systems, including technical and social implications, of engineering solutions
Jon Olson Professor
Cockrell Family Chair in Engineering #17The University of Texas Permian Basin
Petroleum Engineering
What general advice would you give to a Petroleum Production Engineer?
Jon Olson Professor: The core fundamentals of petroleum engineering are still going to be important, but proficiency in computer programming and data science is now also expected. An eye on sustainability is important as companies work to maintain their social license to operate. And everyone needs good communication skills - whether it be for presentations to supervisors or peers, writing reports or being effective with emails.
What Petroleum Production Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Jon Olson Professor: You need to be willing to go to where the work is. For many, that means working in the Permian Basin, even though they may wish to be stationed in a big metroplex like Houston. But there is no substitute for the great experience and learning you get by being close to the field, where you can get out of the office and see first-hand how the oil business works.
What will help Petroleum Production Engineers increase their earning potential?
Jon Olson Professor: Compensation in the oil and gas business is very good for all starting employees, particularly if you work for an operator. You can move up the ladder by being hard-working, flexible, and willing to take on new projects when they arise. Being innovative in your approach to problem-solving is also going to get you noticed, which will involve taking risks by not just following the pack in all you do. There is still room for improvement in all we do.
What general advice would you give to a Petroleum Production Engineer?
Ahmed Temani: As a new Petroleum Engineering graduate, it's crucial to be adaptable, eager to learn, and gain practical experience. Exploring different areas within petroleum engineering can help you discover your interests. Networking is key - attending industry events and joining professional organizations can provide valuable connections and opportunities. Staying up-to-date with new technologies in our rapidly evolving industry is also important.
What Petroleum Production Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Ahmed Temani: To maximize your salary potential in Petroleum Engineering, focus on continuous learning and skill development. Specializing in a specific area of petroleum engineering can increase your value to employers. Consider pursuing advanced degrees to further enhance your salary potential. Gaining experience in challenging environments or roles, such as international projects, can also be beneficial. Actively participate in professional organizations and take on leadership roles when possible. Building a strong professional online presence can also contribute to your career advancement.
What will help Petroleum Production Engineers increase their earning potential?
Ahmed Temani: The petroleum engineering industry is moving rapidly towards data-driven decision-making, digitalization, and sustainability. Skills in data analysis, automation and Artificial Intelligence (AI) will be increasingly used to optimize processes. Demand is also rising for knowledge and technologies related to sustainability and clean energy.
Dr. Heidrun Schmitzer
Professor and ChairXavier University
Department Of Physics
What skills stand out on Petroleum Production Engineer resumes?
Dr. Heidrun Schmitzer: Programming languages, numerical design and simulation tools, knowledge of various measurement equipment.
What soft skills should all Petroleum Production Engineers possess?
Dr. Heidrun Schmitzer: Communication, teamwork.
What skills will help Petroleum Production Engineers earn the most?
Dr. Heidrun Schmitzer: Problem-solving, troubleshooting, independent learner.
Daniel Croce
Post-Doctoral ResearcherColorado School of Mines
Petroleum Engineering Department / Center for Hydrate Research
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Petroleum Production Engineer job market given the pandemic?
Daniel Croce: Data analysis, modeling and forecasting and remote support should gain more importance for the petroleum industry given the necessity of personnel gathering avoidance. The energy demand will increase as regular activities recover, so preparing for the upcoming months is of key importance. Activities such as flow assurance, supply and replenishment and asset valuation should occupy a key role as the activities around the world start to speed up.
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Petroleum Production Engineers?
Daniel Croce: In overall, learning fundamental coding and data analysis skills is of great importance to understand energy consumption behaviors that cannot be modeled but by using statistical resources. Larger data sets of different nature are more and more available every day, and it is of key importance to know what data to use and how to use it. The key for success will be to not fall in the trap of doing machine learning or following data analysis trends just because everybody is doing it. It will be key to understand if its needed and what to expect from it.
Another point to mention is that the industry has different needs according to the geographical location. In particular, the United States has seen a large boom from the development of shale formations that now require artificial lift technologies and reservoir stimulation techniques that increase the ROI of the large investments made in the past eight or so years. In that sense, understanding "the fundamentals" of these activities and their current limitations will be a great requirement to challenge the existing boundaries and methods and bring the success required for the next decades. Courses related to these activities will be of major importance in the short term for the O&G industry.
How have salaries changed over time for Petroleum Production Engineers?
Daniel Croce: Salary scales have not changed according to the feedback we have. The size of the payrolls has been adapted for a more efficient use and impact on the PnL of the companies, from top to bottom.
Jared Wilson
Assistant Professor and Faculty CoordinatorEast Tennessee State University
Surveying and Mapping
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Petroleum Production Engineers to find work opportunities?
Jared Wilson: Within the field of land surveying and related employment opportunities, work is available. However, in my experience, work may not be in the exact location a person wishes to live. So, a move may be necessary, or potentially traveling to where the work is located. Should a graduate, or person for that matter, want to work, work is available.
Dr. Sohrab Asgarpoor
Associate Dean for Undergraduate Programs, Professor of Electrical and Computer EngineeringUniversity of Nebraska–Lincoln
College of Engineering
How do you envision technology impacting Petroleum Production Engineers in the next 5 years?
Dr. Sohrab Asgarpoor: Adopting new technology should be an exciting (and expected) reality for those with an engineering degree. The virtual space will continue to grow as folks seek jobs and work online more. But what holds paramount, no matter what particular technological changes arise, is the ability to adapt-and to demonstrate that critical aptitude in their application documents and through their interviews, always highlighting those moments they've done so and articulating their propensity for learning.
What experience really stands out on Petroleum Production Engineer resumes?
Robert Rich: -Certification such as green belt, black-belt, machine learning, Lean Manufacturing, and APICS supply chain/inventory
-Specialized undergraduate research projects that go deep into various leading-edge topics like integrating AI with manufacturing and logistics
-Consulting experience/real projects within areas of undergraduate research
Dr. Galen Duree
Head of the Department of Physics and Optical Engineering and ProfessorRose-Hulman Institute of Technology
Department of Physics and Optical Engineering
What experience really stands out on Petroleum Production Engineer resumes?
Dr. Galen Duree: It depends on what you are applying for. If you are working on product development, then internships or co-ops provide a definite advantage. If you are working on developing new ways of doing things, research experiences in academia or companies are advantageous. Either case, this shows a certain maturity in your career path - you have participated in an activity related to the career you are currently pursuing.
What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for Petroleum Production Engineers in the next 3-5 years?
Dr. Galen Duree: People with knowledge, even introductory experience, in quantum effects, quantum computing, optics in general (communication, measurements, imaging, illumination, detection), material science and engineering, biotechnology, and nanotechnology, will be in high demand.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Petroleum Production Engineers?
Michael Rudisill: It depends on what you really mean by enduring, but for all practical purposes, once the pandemic has passed, the economy will return, and anyone in the engineering field who wants a job will have many opportunities. Obviously, the short-term effect can be brutal for new graduates as jobs are not as plentiful as "usual"-but in the long term, those that persevere will end up in great careers. In some ways, it will be harder on the senior engineers who haven't stayed employed, as they are missing out on years when their income should be the highest. New graduates are missing relatively low earning years, so the long-term effects should not be as bad looking at lifetime earnings.
How do you envision technology impacting Petroleum Production Engineers in the next 5 years?
Michael Rudisill: Technology will continue to advance-which will increase the need for trained engineers. Even areas such as sales that not many people would think would be looking for engineers when dealing with technologically advanced products need people who understand how the product works, perform, etc.-in other words-trained engineers.
How would you rate the starting salaries for Petroleum Production Engineers, as well as the prospects for salary advancement?
Michael Rudisill: From what we've seen, salaries haven't been reduced, even though demand is down. I would expect wages and salary progression to remain strong as the need for engineering will only continue to grow.
How do you envision technology impacting Petroleum Production Engineers in the next 5 years?
John Ring: An engineering student learns "how to learn" during their time in college. Technology will evolve, and tomorrow's engineers must learn at the same pace so that new technology can be applied to solve a problem.
What type of skills will young Petroleum Production Engineers need?
John Ring: While our universities consistently educate engineering students with hard skills and strong engineering fundamentals, tomorrow's engineers need to be strong communicators, collaborators, and critical thinkers. Our professional environments are filled with data and information, and the constraint is typically how much time individuals can dedicate to solving a problem. At Elon University, we educate tomorrow's engineers to have the hard skills necessary to analyze the information and situations, apply critical thinking techniques to determine ways to solve the issue, and then concisely and efficiently communicate with colleagues as solutions are being set in motion.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Petroleum Production Engineers?
Ben Ebenhack: I believe that the impact of the pandemic on the US economy is still unfolding and that we won't be able to see any kind of robust turnaround until vaccines are widely available and seen, in practice, to be effective. Until that time, I suspect that we'll continue to see a lot of volatility as investors speculate about recovery, reopening, etc., but the trends will probably vacillate.
Once the pandemic is clearly seen to be reasonably well-controlled, I think that there will be a good deal of pent-up demand for energy and its services. I expect to see a modest recovery in energy prices, but that may not translate to jobs for a few years. Ultimately, the world's need for energy will drive prices up, and there will probably be another boom. Everyone should remember that half of humanity (~3.5 billion people) lack access to modern energy, on which development depends. With global economic recovery, I would expect that to apply considerable upward pressure on energy (and related resource) demands for the next several decades. Alternative energy will continue to grow, but I don't think it can grow as fast as some optimists expect.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Petroleum Production Engineers?
Craig Carignan: Yes, it will have an enduring impact on aerospace grads, especially those going into aeronautical engineering. The airline industry has been hit especially hard by the pandemic, and commercial aircraft manufacture has come to a screeching halt. That means not just the airplane manufacturers being affected but all of the hundreds of aircraft parts suppliers too. The other factor is that people are learning how to attend conferences and meetings virtually, through applications like Zoom and Teams, which also saves a lot of money on travel. So even when things do start returning to normal, I think that the demand for air travel will not return to the same levels as before.
Some long term impact may also be felt by the space industry. Even though there are quarantine precautions in place (before and after a flight), human space flight might be seen as riskier due to possible infection from viruses that may not show symptoms. So we might try to do more from the ground using robotics. Also, the density of workers in a lot of places in the aerospace industry is very high, and I would expect telecommuting to become more common.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Petroleum Production Engineers to find work opportunities?
Dr. Giovanni Vincenti: Cities that are typically associated with technology will probably remain hubs of innovation, especially if they have local administrations that are favorable towards entrepreneurship. However, the recent need for companies to leverage the ability to work remotely has opened up the possibilities of workers who may not otherwise be willing to relocate. This trend is probably here to stay for a while, so the ability of graduates to work with virtual collaborators will bring tech jobs to parts of the country that are not typically known for innovation. Even though there probably will not be clusters that will identify new equivalents of Silicon Valley out of nowhere, the fact that the reach of potential employees has extended beyond their geographical immediacy will create major opportunities for any location.