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Entry Level Upstream Oil & Gas Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Machinist II

Conroe, TX · On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

... upstream oil and gas operations. This role requires deep knowledge of oilfield-grade materials, close-tolerance machining, and the ability to work from engineering drawings to produce parts that meet ...

I&E Automation Technician

Tioga, ND · On-site

$41K/yr

Our expertise covers virtually all facets of electrical contracting for the upstream oil and gas industries, including specialty expertise in new well sites and production facility electrification.

WI · On-site

$48 - $55/hr

Documented experience working in or estimating for the Oil & Gas , midstream, upstream, or heavy industrial sectors. * Collaboration Skills:Proven ability to communicate effectively and work cross ...

Mechanical Engineer

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Company Description Alpine Polytech is an ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited laboratory specializing in materials testing and consulting services for the upstream Oil & Gas and downstream Chemical ...

Showing results 41-60

Entry Level Upstream Oil Gas information

See salary details

$25K

$47.8K

$68.5K

How much do entry level upstream oil & gas jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level upstream oil & gas in the United States is $47,831.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $52,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level upstream oil & gas job?

Entry level upstream oil & gas jobs are positions that involve the exploration and production phases of the oil and gas industry, typically suited for recent graduates or individuals with limited experience. These roles may include positions such as field technician, drilling assistant, roustabout, or junior geologist. Employees in these jobs often work on-site at drilling rigs or production facilities and are responsible for assisting with equipment operation, data collection, and general site support. These jobs provide foundational experience and opportunities for advancement within the oil and gas sector.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level upstream oil & gas professional?

To thrive as an Entry Level Upstream Oil & Gas professional, you need a basic understanding of geology, engineering principles, and safety protocols, often supported by a relevant degree or technical training. Familiarity with drilling equipment, industry-standard software like Petrel or WellView, and safety certifications such as H2S and OSHA are typically required. Strong teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and a commitment to safety help individuals excel in demanding field environments. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring operational efficiency, minimizing risks, and supporting successful exploration and production activities.

What can I expect in terms of team structure and collaboration as an entry level upstream oil & gas professional?

As an entry-level professional in upstream oil & gas, you’ll typically work as part of a multidisciplinary team that can include geologists, engineers, safety personnel, and field operators. Collaboration is key, as projects often require input from various specialties to ensure safe and efficient exploration and production. You may rotate through different assignments or locations to gain exposure to various aspects of field operations, data analysis, and project planning. Regular communication with your team, supervisors, and sometimes clients is common, fostering a supportive environment for learning and professional growth.

What is the difference between Entry Level Upstream Oil & Gas vs Entry Level Downstream Oil & Gas?

AspectEntry Level Upstream Oil & GasEntry Level Downstream Oil & Gas
CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate degree; technical certificationsHigh school diploma or associate degree; technical certifications
Work EnvironmentExploration sites, drilling rigs, field operationsRefineries, distribution centers, retail locations
Employer & Industry UsageOil exploration companies, drilling contractorsRefining companies, distribution firms, retail chains

Entry Level Upstream Oil & Gas roles focus on exploration, drilling, and extracting crude oil, often in outdoor, field environments. In contrast, Entry Level Downstream Oil & Gas positions involve refining, distribution, and retail operations. Both roles typically require similar educational backgrounds and certifications but differ significantly in work environment and industry focus.

More about Entry Level Upstream Oil Gas jobs

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Upstream Oil & Gas jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Upstream Oil & Gas job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Upstream Oil & Gas jobs?

The most popular types of Upstream Oil & Gas jobs are:

What states have the most Entry Level Upstream Oil & Gas jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Upstream Oil & Gas jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Upstream Oil & Gas jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Upstream Oil & Gas jobs are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Upstream Oil & Gas job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,831 per year, or $23 per hour.

Machinist II

Conroe, TX • On-site

EOG Resources, Inc.
Oil and Gas Extraction • 1 - 5K employees

$17.50 - $24/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 4 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


EOG Resources rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

  • Position Overview
    The CNC Machinist is responsible for the setup, operation, and maintenance of CNC machining equipment used to manufacture, repair, and refurbish precision components that support EOG Resources' upstream oil and gas operations. This role requires deep knowledge of oilfield-grade materials, close-tolerance machining, and the ability to work from engineering drawings to produce parts that meet the rigorous demands of downhole environments.
    Key Responsibilities
    Machine Setup & Operation
    • Set up and operate CNC mills, lathes, and turning centers to produce precision oilfield components
    • Load, verify, and adjust CNC programs; set tool offsets and datum points
    • Monitor machine operations to detect malfunctions, tool wear, or out-of-tolerance conditions
  • Programming
    • Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and work orders with GD&T callouts
    • Edit or write CNC programs (G-code/M-code) as required for new or revised parts
    • Work with CAM-generated toolpaths and make practical adjustments at the machine
  • Oilfield Component Expertise
    • Machine components to API and EOG internal specifications
    • Work with a wide range of materials common to oil & gas applications
    • Perform repair and rework on returned field equipment to restore dimensional tolerances
    • Complete inspection documentation and maintain accurate production records
    • Support continuous improvement initiatives to reduce scrap and rework
  • Safety & Compliance
    • Follow all EOG Resources safety policies, procedures, and OSHA regulations
    • Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free work area (5S standards)
    • Wear required PPE at all times: safety glasses, steel-toed boots, hearing protection

Job Requirements
  • Required
    • High school diploma or GED equivalent
    • Minimum 3 years of CNC machining experience, preferably in an oil & gas or industrial manufacturing environment
    • Proficiency operating CNC lathes and/or mills
    • Demonstrated ability to read engineering drawings, GD&T, and API thread specifications
    • Experience measuring and inspecting parts using precision hand tools
  • Preferred
    • Vocational or technical certification in machining, manufacturing technology, or related field
    • Experience with Haas, Fanuc, or Mazak CNC controls
    • Familiarity with API Spec 7-1, 5CT, or 11AX standards
    • Background in repair and rework of oilfield production or downhole equipment
    • Basic CAM software experience (Mastercam, Fusion 360, or similar)
  • Physical Requirements
    • Ability to stand for extended periods on a concrete shop floor
    • Lift and maneuver parts or tooling up to 50 lbs unassisted
    • Work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, metal chips, cutting fluids, and lubricants
    • Ability to use hand tools, overhead cranes/hoists, and forklifts (training provided)
  • Work Environment
    • Indoor machine shop facility - Conroe, TX
    • Shift schedule may vary based on production demand
    • Fast-paced, team-oriented environment with direct impact on EOG field operations

Position will be filled a level commensurate with experience.
EOG Resources is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including Veterans and Disabled.
Equal Employment is the Law
Requests for Accommodation
Individuals with a disability who wish to request an accommodation to complete an employment application, please Click here or call 713-651-6694.

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