Details Report

Updated 2004

Details Report for:
17-2171.00 - Petroleum Engineers

Devise methods to improve oil and gas well production and determine the need for new or modified tool designs. Oversee drilling and offer technical advice to achieve economical and satisfactory progress.

Sample of reported job titles: Petroleum Engineer, Reservoir Engineer, Production Engineer, Drilling Engineer, Completion Engineer, Operations Engineer, Drilling Manager, Operations Manager, Project Production Engineer, Project Reservoir Engineer

View report: Summary Details Custom

Tasks Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Importance	Category	Task
86	Core	Assess costs and estimate the production capabilities and economic value of oil and gas wells, to evaluate the economic viability of potential drilling sites.
81	Core	Monitor production rates, and plan rework processes to improve production.
78	Core	Analyze data to recommend placement of wells and supplementary processes to enhance production.
74	Core	Specify and supervise well modification and stimulation programs to maximize oil and gas recovery.
72	Core	Direct and monitor the completion and evaluation of wells, well testing, or well surveys.
71	Core	Assist engineering and other personnel to solve operating problems.
70	Core	Develop plans for oil and gas field drilling, and for product recovery and treatment.
69	Core	Maintain records of drilling and production operations.
67	Core	Confer with scientific, engineering, and technical personnel to resolve design, research, and testing problems.
66	Core	Write technical reports for engineering and management personnel.
60	Core	Evaluate findings to develop, design, or test equipment or processes.
60	Core	Assign work to staff to obtain maximum utilization of personnel.
66	Supplemental	Interpret drilling and testing information for personnel.
65	Supplemental	Design and implement environmental controls on oil and gas operations.
65	Supplemental	Coordinate the installation, maintenance, and operation of mining and oil field equipment.
64	Supplemental	Supervise the removal of drilling equipment, the removal of any waste, and the safe return of land to structural stability when wells or pockets are exhausted.
63	Supplemental	Inspect oil and gas wells to determine that installations are completed.
60	Supplemental	Simulate reservoir performance for different recovery techniques, using computer models.
58	Supplemental	Take samples to assess the amount and quality of oil, the depth at which resources lie, and the equipment needed to properly extract them.
57	Supplemental	Coordinate activities of workers engaged in research, planning, and development.
51	Supplemental	Design or modify mining and oil field machinery and tools, applying engineering principles.
50	Supplemental	Test machinery and equipment to ensure that it is safe and conforms to performance specifications.
46	Supplemental	Conduct engineering research experiments to improve or modify mining and oil machinery and operations.

Knowledge Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Importance		Knowledge
91		Engineering and Technology — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
79		Mathematics — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
73		English Language — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
68		Physics — Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub- atomic structures and processes.
64		Computers and Electronics — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
63		Administration and Management — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
55		Chemistry — Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
55		Production and Processing — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
54		Economics and Accounting — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
52		Clerical — Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and other office procedures and terminology.
52		Design — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
51		Mechanical — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
46		Law and Government — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
39		Public Safety and Security — Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
37		Geography — Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
37		Personnel and Human Resources — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
32		Psychology — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
31		Building and Construction — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
29		Education and Training — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
28		Communications and Media — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
28		Customer and Personal Service — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
28		Sales and Marketing — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
28		Telecommunications — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
28		Transportation — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
17		Foreign Language — Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
14		Biology — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
13		Philosophy and Theology — Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
12		Medicine and Dentistry — Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
12		Sociology and Anthropology — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures and their history and origins.
10		History and Archeology — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
9		Therapy and Counseling — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
2		Fine Arts — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
0		Food Production — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.

Skills Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Importance		Skill
88		Judgment and Decision Making — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
85		Critical Thinking — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
82		Active Listening — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
80		Complex Problem Solving — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
80		Reading Comprehension — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
79		Mathematics — Using mathematics to solve problems.
78		Coordination — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
78		Science — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
78		Troubleshooting — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
75		Active Learning — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
71		Management of Financial Resources — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
71		Writing — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
70		Speaking — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
66		Operations Analysis — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
65		Time Management — Managing one's own time and the time of others.
64		Persuasion — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
63		Equipment Selection — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
62		Negotiation — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
61		Monitoring — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
60		Operation Monitoring — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
57		Technology Design — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
56		Management of Material Resources — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
55		Learning Strategies — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
48		Systems Analysis — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
47		Management of Personnel Resources — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
47		Systems Evaluation — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
46		Social Perceptiveness — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
45		Instructing — Teaching others how to do something.
40		Equipment Maintenance — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
40		Quality Control Analysis — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
36		Programming — Writing computer programs for various purposes.
34		Operation and Control — Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
33		Service Orientation — Actively looking for ways to help people.
32		Repairing — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
29		Installation — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.

Abilities Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Importance		Ability
72		Deductive Reasoning — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
72		Oral Comprehension — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
72		Problem Sensitivity — The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.
72		Written Comprehension — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
69		Inductive Reasoning — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
69		Information Ordering — The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
69		Oral Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
66		Speech Clarity — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
63		Flexibility of Closure — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
63		Mathematical Reasoning — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
63		Near Vision — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
60		Category Flexibility — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
60		Number Facility — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
60		Selective Attention — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
60		Speech Recognition — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
60		Written Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
56		Originality — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
53		Far Vision — The ability to see details at a distance.
53		Fluency of Ideas — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
50		Visualization — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
47		Perceptual Speed — The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.
47		Speed of Closure — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
44		Finger Dexterity — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
44		Time Sharing — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
41		Depth Perception — The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.
41		Hearing Sensitivity — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
41		Visual Color Discrimination — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
38		Auditory Attention — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
35		Memorization — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
25		Control Precision — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
22		Multilimb Coordination — The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
6		Manual Dexterity — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
6		Spatial Orientation — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
3		Arm-Hand Steadiness — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
3		Dynamic Strength — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
3		Explosive Strength — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
3		Extent Flexibility — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
3		Gross Body Coordination — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
3		Rate Control — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.
3		Reaction Time — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
3		Response Orientation — The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.
3		Sound Localization — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
3		Static Strength — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
3		Wrist-Finger Speed — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
0		Dynamic Flexibility — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.
0		Glare Sensitivity — The ability to see objects in the presence of glare or bright lighting.
0		Gross Body Equilibrium — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
0		Night Vision — The ability to see under low light conditions.
0		Peripheral Vision — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
0		Speed of Limb Movement — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
0		Stamina — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.
0		Trunk Strength — The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without 'giving out' or fatiguing.

Work Activities Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Importance		Work Activity
90		Making Decisions and Solving Problems — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems. resolve engineering or science problems use intuitive judgment for engineering analyses
84		Analyzing Data or Information — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts. analyze engineering design problems analyze engineering test data analyze project proposal to determine feasibility, cost, or time analyze scientific research data or investigative findings analyze technical data, designs, or preliminary specifications analyze test data evaluate costs of engineering projects evaluate engineering data evaluate manufacturing or processing systems evaluate tool designs perform statistical analysis in physical science or geological research provide analytical assessment of engineering data
81		Getting Information — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources. collect scientific or technical data read blueprints read schematics read technical drawings
79		Processing Information — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data. compile numerical or statistical data develop tables depicting data
75		Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person. confer with engineering, technical or manufacturing personnel confer with research personnel
74		Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity. estimate time needed for project explore for oil or gas
74		Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events. understand engineering data or reports understand properties of gases or liquids
73		Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
73		Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work. plan construction of structures or facilities plan oil or ore extraction plan production processes plan scientific research or investigative studies plan testing of engineering methods
72		Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards. adhere to safety procedures examine engineering documents for completeness or accuracy inspect facilities or equipment for regulatory compliance perform safety inspections in construction or resource extraction setting
70		Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job. follow safe waste disposal procedures use drafting or mechanical drawing techniques use government regulations use hazardous materials information use knowledge of investigation techniques use library or online Internet research techniques use long or short term production planning techniques use mathematical or statistical methods to identify or analyze problems use physical science research techniques use pollution control techniques use project management techniques use quantitative research methods use research methodology procedures within manufacturing or commerce use scientific research methodology use technical regulations for engineering problems use underwater engineering techniques
69		Interacting With Computers — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information. develop or maintain databases use computer aided drafting or design software for design, drafting, modeling, or other engineering tasks use computers to enter, access or retrieve data use relational database software use spreadsheet software use word processing or desktop publishing software
69		Monitoring and Controlling Resources — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
68		Documenting/Recording Information — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
66		Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used. explain complex mathematical information
63		Communicating with Persons Outside Organization — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail. communicate technical information confer with scientists
61		Developing Objectives and Strategies — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them. develop plans for programs or projects develop policies, procedures, methods, or standards write business project or bid proposals
61		Scheduling Work and Activities — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
56		Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks. coordinate development of refining processes coordinate engineering project activities direct and coordinate activities of workers or staff direct and coordinate scientific research or investigative studies
56		Judging the Qualities of Things, Services, or People — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
55		Thinking Creatively — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions. create mathematical or statistical diagrams or charts design construction projects design control systems design electro-mechanical equipment design electronic equipment design engineered systems design machines design mining or petroleum equipment and other extraction systems design tools or mechanical devices design transporting processes design waste recovery methods develop mathematical simulation models improve test devices or techniques in manufacturing, industrial or engineering setting
52		Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time. work as a team member
52		Provide Consultation and Advice to Others — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics. advise clients or customers advise clients regarding engineering problems
50		Performing Administrative Activities — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork. prepare reports prepare safety reports prepare technical reports or related documentation
48		Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects. conduct performance testing inspect project operations, or site to determine specification compliance
47		Developing and Building Teams — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members. lead teams in engineering projects
42		Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used. calculate engineering specifications draw prototypes, plans, or maps to scale
42		Selling or Influencing Others — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
41		Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
35		Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance. assign work to staff or employees delegate authority for engineering activities direct personnel in support of engineering activities supervise petroleum workers
26		Training and Teaching Others — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
24		Coaching and Developing Others — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
24		Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or water craft.
18		Controlling Machines and Processes — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
11		Handling and Moving Objects — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
10		Staffing Organizational Units — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.
8		Performing for or Working Directly with the Public — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
8		Performing General Physical Activities — Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials.
7		Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles. test equipment as part of engineering projects or processes
7		Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
3		Assisting and Caring for Others — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.

Work Context Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Context		Work Context
98		Telephone — How often do you have telephone conversations in this job?
94		Duration of Typical Work Week — Number of hours typically worked in one week.
94		Face-to-Face Discussions — How often do you have to have face-to-face discussions with individuals or teams in this job?
89		Indoors, Environmentally Controlled — How often does this job require working indoors in environmentally controlled conditions?
88		Structured versus Unstructured Work — To what extent is this job structured for the worker, rather than allowing the worker to determine tasks, priorities, and goals?
88		Work With Work Group or Team — How important is it to work with others in a group or team in this job?
85		Electronic Mail — How often do you use electronic mail in this job?
83		Contact With Others — How much does this job require the worker to be in contact with others (face-to-face, by telephone, or otherwise) in order to perform it?
83		Spend Time Sitting — How much does this job require sitting?
73		Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results — How do the decisions an employee makes impact the results of co-workers, clients or the company?
71		Coordinate or Lead Others — How important is it to coordinate or lead others in accomplishing work activities in this job?
70		Importance of Being Exact or Accurate — How important is being very exact or highly accurate in performing this job?
67		Freedom to Make Decisions — How much decision making freedom, without supervision, does the job offer?
65		Responsibility for Outcomes and Results — How responsible is the worker for work outcomes and results of other workers?
64		Time Pressure — How often does this job require the worker to meet strict deadlines?
61		Frequency of Decision Making — How frequently is the worker required to make decisions that affect other people, the financial resources, and/or the image and reputation of the organization?
61		Letters and Memos — How often does the job require written letters and memos?
54		Level of Competition — To what extent does this job require the worker to compete or to be aware of competitive pressures?
50		Public Speaking — How often do you have to perform public speaking in this job?
48		Frequency of Conflict Situations — How often are there conflict situations the employee has to face in this job?
46		Deal With External Customers — How important is it to work with external customers or the public in this job?
45		In an Enclosed Vehicle or Equipment — How often does this job require working in a closed vehicle or equipment (e.g., car)?
42		Importance of Repeating Same Tasks — How important is repeating the same physical activities (e.g., key entry) or mental activities (e.g., checking entries in a ledger) over and over, without stopping, to performing this job?
42		Responsible for Others' Health and Safety — How much responsibility is there for the health and safety of others in this job?
37		Consequence of Error — How serious would the result usually be if the worker made a mistake that was not readily correctable?
35		Physical Proximity — To what extent does this job require the worker to perform job tasks in close physical proximity to other people?
35		Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions — How much does this job require making repetitive motions?
33		Exposed to Contaminants — How often does this job require working exposed to contaminants (such as pollutants, gases, dust or odors)?
30		Deal With Unpleasant or Angry People — How frequently does the worker have to deal with unpleasant, angry, or discourteous individuals as part of the job requirements?
29		Sounds, Noise Levels Are Distracting or Uncomfortable — How often does this job require working exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting or uncomfortable?
28		Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled — How often does this job require working indoors in non-controlled environmental conditions (e.g., warehouse without heat)?
28		Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls — How much does this job require using your hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls?
26		Outdoors, Exposed to Weather — How often does this job require working outdoors, exposed to all weather conditions?
24		Degree of Automation — How automated is the job?
23		Spend Time Standing — How much does this job require standing?
21		Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets — How much does this job require wearing common protective or safety equipment such as safety shoes, glasses, gloves, hard hats or life jackets?
19		Exposed to Hazardous Conditions — How often does this job require exposure to hazardous conditions?
19		Spend Time Walking and Running — How much does this job require walking and running?
18		Work Schedules — How regular are the work schedules for this job?
17		Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment — How important is it to this job that the pace is determined by the speed of equipment or machinery? (This does not refer to keeping busy at all times on this job.)
17		Very Hot or Cold Temperatures — How often does this job require working in very hot (above 90 F degrees) or very cold (below 32 F degrees) temperatures?
15		Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting — How often does this job require working in extremely bright or inadequate lighting conditions?
11		Exposed to Hazardous Equipment — How often does this job require exposure to hazardous equipment?
10		Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions — How often does this job require working in cramped work spaces that requires getting into awkward positions?
9		Spend Time Bending or Twisting the Body — How much does this job require bending or twisting your body?
8		Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings — How often does this job require exposure to minor burns, cuts, bites, or stings?
7		Exposed to Radiation — How often does this job require exposure to radiation?
6		Outdoors, Under Cover — How often does this job require working outdoors, under cover (e.g., structure with roof but no walls)?
6		Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles — How much does this job require climbing ladders, scaffolds, or poles?
5		Exposed to High Places — How often does this job require exposure to high places?
4		Deal With Physically Aggressive People — How frequently does this job require the worker to deal with physical aggression of violent individuals?
3		Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance — How much does this job require keeping or regaining your balance?
3		Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection — How much does this job require wearing specialized protective or safety equipment such as breathing apparatus, safety harness, full protection suits, or radiation protection?
1		In an Open Vehicle or Equipment — How often does this job require working in an open vehicle or equipment (e.g., tractor)?
1		Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling — How much does this job require kneeling, crouching, stooping or crawling?
0		Exposed to Disease or Infections — How often does this job require exposure to disease/infections?
0		Exposed to Whole Body Vibration — How often does this job require exposure to whole body vibration (e.g., operate a jackhammer)?

Job Zone Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Component	Description
Title	Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed

Overall Experience	A minimum of two to four years of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.

Job Training	Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.

Job Zone Examples	Many of these occupations involve coordinating, supervising, managing, or training others. Examples include accountants, human resource managers, computer programmers, teachers, chemists, and police detectives.

SVP Range	(7.0 to < 8.0)

Education	Most of these occupations require a four - year bachelor's degree, but some do not.

Interests Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Occupational Interest		Interest
95		Investigative — Investigative occupations frequently involve working with ideas, and require an extensive amount of thinking. These occupations can involve searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally.
72		Realistic — Realistic occupations frequently involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They often deal with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery. Many of the occupations require working outside, and do not involve a lot of paperwork or working closely with others.
67		Conventional — Conventional occupations frequently involve following set procedures and routines. These occupations can include working with data and details more than with ideas. Usually there is a clear line of authority to follow.
39		Enterprising — Enterprising occupations frequently involve starting up and carrying out projects. These occupations can involve leading people and making many decisions. Sometimes they require risk taking and often deal with business.
11		Artistic — Artistic occupations frequently involve working with forms, designs and patterns. They often require self-expression and the work can be done without following a clear set of rules.
0		Social — Social occupations frequently involve working with, communicating with, and teaching people. These occupations often involve helping or providing service to others.

Work Styles Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Importance		Work Style
89		Analytical Thinking — Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.
83		Dependability — Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
83		Initiative — Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
80		Adaptability/Flexibility — Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
79		Achievement/Effort — Job requires establishing and maintaining personally challenging achievement goals and exerting effort toward mastering tasks.
79		Integrity — Job requires being honest and ethical.
78		Attention to Detail — Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
75		Independence — Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.
75		Stress Tolerance — Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high stress situations.
73		Persistence — Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
71		Cooperation — Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
70		Self Control — Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
69		Leadership — Job requires a willingness to lead, take charge, and offer opinions and direction.
62		Innovation — Job requires creativity and alternative thinking to develop new ideas for and answers to work-related problems.
50		Social Orientation — Job requires preferring to work with others rather than alone, and being personally connected with others on the job.
46		Concern for Others — Job requires being sensitive to others' needs and feelings and being understanding and helpful on the job.

Work Values Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Extent		Work Value
78		Independence — Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employs to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.
78		Working Conditions — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.
72		Achievement — Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.
72		Recognition — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.
67		Support — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.
45		Relationships — Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.

Related Occupations Save Table (XLS/CSV)

17-2011.00	Aerospace Engineers
17-2121.01	Marine Engineers
17-2131.00	Materials Engineers
17-2151.00	Mining and Geological Engineers, Including Mining Safety Engineers
17-3012.02	Electrical Drafters
17-3026.00	Industrial Engineering Technicians
17-3027.00	Mechanical Engineering Technicians
19-2042.00	Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers

Education

Percentage of Respondents	Education Level Attained
80	Bachelor's degree or higher
18	Some college
0	High school or less

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics survey of employees aged 25-44.

This occupation may require a background in the following science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) educational disciplines:

Engineering — Petroleum Engineering

Wages & Employment Trends

National

Category	Occupation Information
Median wages (2007)	$49.98 hourly, $103,960 annual

Employment (2006)	17,000 employees

Projected growth (2006-2016)	Slower than average (3% to 6%)

Projected need (2006-2016)	5,000 additional employees

Details Report for: 17-2171.00 - Petroleum Engineers