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Reservoir Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

General Atomics

Reservoir Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

We have an exciting opportunity for a Reservoir Engineer to join our Uranium Resources Group in Grants, NM. This position will be based in the Southwest part of the United States with 25%-50 ...

New

Applied Physics

Seismologist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Work as part of a scientific team, interacting with seismologists, geologists, reservoir engineers, statisticians, physicists, and computer scientists to design and implement high-impact research ...

Applied Physics

Seismologist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Work as part of a scientific team, interacting with seismologists, geologists, reservoir engineers, statisticians, physicists, and computer scientists to design and implement high-impact research ...

Applied Physics

Seismologist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Work as part of a scientific team, interacting with seismologists, geologists, reservoir engineers, statisticians, physicists, and computer scientists to design and implement high-impact research ...

Origin Energy Services Ltd

Mechanical, Petroleum and Reservoir Engineering * Electrical Engineering * Chemical and Process Engineering * Geoscience and Geology * Finance and Accounting * Commercial and Strategy * Data ...

Traylor Bros. Inc.

BIM Coordinator

Long Beach, CA

We have the ability to engineer creative solutions to overcome any obstacle. Ethics. We are honest ... The project will involve the use of a lower reservoir and the creation of an upper reservoir ...

Traylor Bros., Inc.

BIM Coordinator

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$80 - $120/hr

We have the ability to engineer creative solutions to overcome any obstacle. Ethics. We are honest ... The project will involve the use of a lower reservoir and the creation of an upper reservoir ...

Fervo Energy Company

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$115K - $182K/yr

We are seeking engineers who are excited by Fervo's mission, the opportunity to drive meaningful ... Collaborate closely across disciplines (process, electrical, reservoir, drilling) as well as with ...

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All JobsReservoir Engineer JobsReservoir Engineer Jobs in California

Reservoir Engineer information

See California salary details

$60.2K

$122.3K

$171.2K

How much do reservoir engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for reservoir engineer in California is $122,345.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,600.00 and $144,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a reservoir engineer?

The responsibilities of a reservoir engineer, also known as a petroleum or pipeline engineer, focus on optimizing the fluid flow of petroleum oil and gas through reservoirs. Your duties are to identify and evaluate each oil and gas reserve using special tools and equipment, continuously monitor and optimize the reserve during the drilling process, and analyze the flow mechanics of each reserve to ensure efficiency. Although reservoir engineers can complete some work off-site using computer models of reservoirs and frac sites, you typically travel to different job sites as needed and work long hours as projects develop.

What does a reservoir engineer do?

A Reservoir Engineer is a specialized professional in the oil and gas industry who evaluates oil and gas reservoirs to maximize extraction and recovery. They use advanced computer modeling, data analysis, and field studies to estimate reserves, plan production strategies, and monitor reservoir performance. Their work involves collaborating with geologists, drilling engineers, and production teams to ensure efficient and sustainable extraction. Reservoir Engineers also help determine the economic viability of projects and suggest enhanced recovery techniques when necessary.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a reservoir engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Reservoir Engineer, you need a solid background in petroleum engineering, geology, and fluid mechanics, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Proficiency in reservoir simulation software (e.g., Eclipse, Petrel) and understanding of data analysis tools are crucial, along with relevant certifications such as SPE membership. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help engineers work collaboratively and make data-driven decisions. These skills are vital for optimizing hydrocarbon recovery, maximizing reservoir performance, and ensuring the economic success of oil and gas projects.

What are some common challenges reservoir engineers face when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Reservoir Engineers often collaborate with geologists, production engineers, and drilling teams to maximize oil and gas recovery. One common challenge is aligning differing technical perspectives and priorities, especially when balancing short-term production targets with long-term reservoir management. Effective communication and a solid understanding of each discipline’s objectives are critical to ensure project success. Building strong relationships and staying adaptable can help Reservoir Engineers integrate diverse viewpoints and drive optimal solutions.

What is the difference between Reservoir Engineer vs Petroleum Engineer?

AspectReservoir EngineerPetroleum Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in petroleum engineering, geology, or related field; often professional engineering licenseBachelor's degree in petroleum engineering or related field; often professional engineering license
Work EnvironmentFocuses on subsurface reservoir analysis, modeling, and simulationDesigns and implements drilling, completion, and production processes
Industry UsagePrimarily in exploration and production companies, focusing on reservoir managementInvolved across exploration, drilling, and production phases in oil and gas industry

Reservoir Engineers and Petroleum Engineers share similar educational backgrounds and work within the oil and gas industry. Reservoir Engineers specialize in analyzing subsurface reservoirs to optimize extraction, while Petroleum Engineers focus on designing and implementing drilling and production operations. Both roles are essential for efficient resource development and often collaborate closely.

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Reservoir Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Reservoir Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,345 per year, or $58.8 per hour.

Reservoir Engineer

General Atomics

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

General Atomics rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

Job Summary
General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Reservoir Engineer to join our Uranium Resources Group in Grants, NM. This position will be based in the Southwest part of the United States with 25%-50% domestic travel.
In this role, you will work both in the field and in the office on water resources and environmental projects with the schedule to be determined by project needs.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Compile, analyze, and interpret geologic, hydrogeologic, hydrologic, and geochemical data
  • Work with more senior staff to develop and apply numerical models of groundwater flow, vadose zone flow, and solute transport.
  • The Reservoir Engineer/Hydrologist exercises independent judgement to plan, coordinate and lead moderately difficult and comprehensive hydrological investigations, inventory and monitoring projects, and scientific research.
  • Set up field projects, including permitting; coordinating with staff, laboratories, and subcontractors; and obtaining necessary equipment.
  • Conduct and oversee field work including drilling and well construction oversight, soil sampling and logging, groundwater monitoring, soil gas sampling, aquifer testing, field mapping, and trench logging
  • Ensure projects are performed safely.
  • Prepare draft technical reports, including technical writing, development of report tables, and figures.
  • executes, and may lead field work in remote environments to generate new or verify existing mapped hydrological information, and to monitor ongoing activities.
  • Plans and performs data collection, management, and analysis using current technologies, including ArcGIS Online, ArcGIS Pro, Field Maps, Aquarius, R, and other software, performs data entry, carries out quality control checks on data collected and entered by others, conducts analysis of data sets, prepares maps and scientific reports, and determines, documents, and communicates the findings to management, other science professionals, and the public.
  • Assists with project planning, work and funding proposals, budget tracking, and other administrative tasks.
  • Communicates effectively, orally and in writing, with other Park staff and offices, other agencies, institutions, academia, researchers, and others regarding collaboration, compliance, and ongoing work, and may participate in conferences or other technical meetings.
  • May be required to work on-call, evenings, weekends, holidays, overtime, and shift work.
  • Physical Demands: Field work is an integral part of this position, and may require strenuous physical activity, such as long periods of standing, walking long distances over rough, mountainous terrain, camping overnight in remote locations, and lifting and carrying heavy objects.
  • The position may require strenuous physical activity including periods of standing, walking, climbing.
  • Data management, computer work, documentary research and report writing work are sedentary, which entails the ability to concentrate and write for long periods of time in an office setting Conditions: Work is performed both indoors and outdoors in all types of weather, including hot, dry, wet, cold, wind, and precipitation.
  • Ensure that the required hydrogeologic data is collected, compiled, analyzed, interpreted, and applied for effective and accurate communication to stakeholders and management.
  • Oversee preparation and timely submittal of monthly, quarterly, semi-annual and annual reports related to hydrogeologic data in accordance with reporting requirements.
  • Ensure that hydrogeologic work is budgeted, forecasted, and communicated appropriately for all projects.
  • Assist with water management strategies and data management.
  • Ensure conformance with site-specific Nuclear Regulatory Commission License SUA-1471, New Mexico Environmental Department Permit DP-200 permit requirements, and Standard Operating Procedures.
  • Assist other personnel in achieving site objectives.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Qualifications
  • Typically requires a bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution and progressive engineering experience as follows; nine or more years of experience with a bachelors degree, seven or more years of experience with a masters degree, or four or more years with a PhD. May substitute equivalent engineering experience in lieu of education.
  • Typically requires a bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in Geology, Hydrogeology, Hydrology, Engineering Geology, Civil Engineering, or related from an accredited institution.
  • 3 - 5+ years of work experience (hydrogeology, reservoir engineering or related).
  • Knowledge and experience of well design, drilling, completions, and development.
  • Capability in aquifer testing design and analysis/characterization.
  • Field capability - supervision of field programs, wellbore drilling and completion, aquifer testing, groundwater sampling.
  • Report writing and communication - internal, stakeholder, regulatory.
  • Design of monitoring networks and regulatory requirements.
  • Knowledge and experience of core sampling methodology for porosity/permeability studies (Routine Core Analysis).
  • Stakeholder engagement and management.
  • Rural/remote work as required to project site work, frequent and regular.
  • Numerical modelling experience - MODFLOW and/or FEFLOW.
  • Experience valued in mining and/or uranium and/or ISR and/or New Mexico.
  • Regulatory knowledge/understanding (NRC/NM, uranium, ISR).
  • Must be capable, willing and enthusiastic to learn & lead project tasks.
  • Ability to work individually and as part of a team.
  • Ability and willingness to travel locally and out of the area as necessary.
  • Ability to stoop, kneel, climb and lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Working in a standing position for the majority of the field workday.
  • Ability to drive large pick-up truck.
  • Ability to use hands to operate field equipment.

Work Location & Travel
  • This position will be based in Albuquerque, New Mexico or the surrounding area. The role is primarily performed from the employee's home or local office, with travel to the project site in Grants, New Mexico approximately 25% of the time (or as business needs require). Relocation to Grants is not required; however, the selected candidate must reside within a commutable distance to Grants, New Mexico.

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About General Atomics

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1955

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