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Entry Level Upstream Oil & Gas Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Experience with oil & gas software * Knowledge of ONRR, severance tax rules, and state regulatory reporting. * Experience in upstream E&P accounting. * Analytical and problemsolving skills * Accuracy ...

Automation Technician

Williston, ND · On-site

$41K/yr

Expanse Electrical is a leader in professional services, specializing in upstream/midstream O&G electrical construction & maintenance; industrial electrical supplies (serving the oil & gas industries ...

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Oil/Gas company seeking entry level candidate to perform dimensional quality control checks on assembled equipment. 8am-5pm Mon- Friday Must be able to speak Spanish and English. Location: 290/ Telge ...

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Entry Level Upstream Oil Gas information

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$25K

$47.8K

$68.5K

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

As of Jun 17, 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 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.

What are entry level upstream oil & gas jobs?

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, and why are they important?

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 professional in upstream oil & gas?

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.
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:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Upstream Oil & Gas job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, 42% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,831 per year, or $23 per hour.
Instrumentation & Controls Engineer 1 - Oil & Gas

Instrumentation & Controls Engineer 1 - Oil & Gas

Sargent & Lundy

Aurora, CO • On-site

$62K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Description
Looking for an Entry Level I&C Engineer to join the team in June 2026.
  • This position will offer you the opportunity to utilize and expand your academic background in Instrumentation and Controls Engineering.
  • You will work on project teams with other I&C engineers involved in the design of new upstream and midstream oil and gas facilities.
  • You will be involved in P&ID development, I/O Lists, Control Panel Design, C&E development, Control Narrative, Network Architecture, Cable Schedule, Location Plans, and preparation of specifications for the procurement of instrumentation and controls equipment and related installation services.
  • You will participate in Process Hazard Analysis and Design Reviews.
  • You will work directly with the client representative to ask and answer questions related to the Instrumentation and Controls design.
  • Through mentoring, classroom-style technical sessions, and on-the-job training, you will increase your knowledge and skills in your engineering discipline.
  • You will travel to client and vendor offices for design reviews and to plant site locations for construction coordination and field verification of designs.
  • Develop your career via peer-learning by way of S&L's systems of process and associated "Communities of Practice."

Qualifications
We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
  • A BS or MS degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering with a graduation date in Spring 2026 and a strong academic background and coursework in analog and digital control systems is required.
  • Knowledge of relevant oil and gas or industrial experience.
  • An understanding of the practical application of instrumentation and controls engineering and technology including applying systems, principles, techniques, and procedures to a project design.
  • Proficiency with MS Office applications, with emphasis on MS Excel.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Effective experience working in a collaborative team environment.

Valued but not required skills and experience:
  • A Bachelor's or Master's of Science degree from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program.
  • Successful completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, and designation as an Engineer in Training.
  • Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in the production of technical plans, drawings, and models.
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD.
  • Experience with SCADA and Radio Networks.

AI & Automation at Sargent & Lundy
In this role, we expect people to be willing or able to solve problems using modern tools:
  • You are expected to take engineering problems from issue to solution using data and modern tools such as automation and AI to improve workflows, reduce rework, and deliver cost-effective designs.
  • Many engineers in these roles build or use automation to create calculations, summarize technical documents, or draft design documentation, including appropriate use of agentic AI tools, with strong engineering judgment and verification of results.
  • Programming or scripting (e.g., Python, MATLAB, advanced Excel) to automate calculations, design checks, reporting, or data transformation is valued but not required.
  • We also value additional learning, such as a minor, certificate, or other training in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, or related fields that helps you apply automation or agentic AI to real engineering problems.

Award-Winning Benefits
At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.
Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance
  • Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life & Accident Insurance
  • Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Back-Up Daycare
  • FSA & HSA
  • 401(k)
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Account
  • Merit Scholarship Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Corporate Charitable Giving Program
  • Tuition Assistance
  • First Professional Licensure Bonus
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Flexible Work Arrangements

Compensation Range
$62,998 - $90,586
Transparency Statement
Sargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.
Awards & Recognition
Equal Opportunity
Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.

Sargent & Lundy logo

About Sargent & Lundy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sargent & Lundy is one of the most experienced full-service architect-engineering firms in the world. Founded in 1891, the firm is a global leader in power and energy with expertise in grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, and fossil fuels. Sargent & Lundy delivers comprehensive project services--from consulting, design and implementation to construction management, commissioning and operations/maintenance--with an emphasis on quality and safety. The firm serves public and private sector clients in the power and energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1891

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