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Upstream Engineering Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Stellent IT LLC

CQV Lead, Upstream

Holly Springs, NC · On-site

$88K - $116K/yr

Title - CQV Lead, Upstream Location: Holly Springs, North Carolina Visa - OPEN NEED LEAD CANDIDATE ONLY WITH LINKEDIN PROFILE seeking a highly experienced CQV (Commissioning, Qualification, and ...

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Upstream Engineering information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$31.6K

$61.2K

$92.8K

How much do upstream engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for upstream engineering in Raleigh, NC is $61,219.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,700.00 and $70,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is upstream engineering?

Upstream engineering refers to the branch of engineering focused on the exploration and production of oil and natural gas. It involves locating oil and gas reserves, drilling wells, and designing the extraction processes needed to bring these resources to the surface. Upstream engineers work with geologists, drillers, and other professionals to ensure efficient and safe operations. This field is critical to the energy industry and requires expertise in geology, reservoir engineering, and drilling technologies.

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

To thrive as an Upstream Engineer, you need a solid background in petroleum engineering, geoscience, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree and industry certifications. Familiarity with reservoir modeling software, drilling technologies, and data analysis tools such as Petrel, Eclipse, or Python is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies are vital for optimizing resource extraction, ensuring operational safety, and maximizing project efficiency in the oil and gas industry.

What are some common challenges faced by upstream engineers when working on oil and gas exploration projects?

Upstream engineers often encounter challenges such as unpredictable geological formations, fluctuating commodity prices, and logistical complexities in remote locations. They must collaborate closely with geologists, drilling teams, and field personnel to adapt to changing conditions and ensure safe, efficient extraction. Managing project timelines while adhering to environmental and safety regulations is also a significant aspect of the role. Overcoming these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and effective communication across multidisciplinary teams.

What is the difference between Upstream Engineering vs Reservoir Engineering?

AspectUpstream EngineeringReservoir Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Petroleum Engineering or related field; often requires professional engineering licenseBachelor's in Petroleum Engineering, Reservoir Engineering, or Geosciences; often requires similar certifications
Work EnvironmentField operations, drilling sites, and production facilitiesReservoir simulation labs, office-based analysis, and field data interpretation
Industry UsageExploration, drilling, and production of oil and gasReservoir performance analysis and recovery optimization

Upstream Engineering focuses on the exploration, drilling, and production of oil and gas, involving field operations and equipment. Reservoir Engineering specializes in analyzing subsurface reservoirs to maximize hydrocarbon recovery through simulation and modeling. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, their work environments and primary responsibilities differ significantly.

What are common upstream engineering jobs?

Common upstream engineering jobs include roles such as reservoir engineers, drilling engineers, production engineers, and facilities engineers. These positions focus on exploration, drilling, extraction, and production of oil and gas, often requiring knowledge of geology, reservoir management, and the use of specialized software and tools.

What does an upstream engineer do?

An upstream engineer is responsible for exploring, developing, and producing oil and gas resources from underground reservoirs. They design and oversee drilling operations, manage reservoir performance, and ensure safety and efficiency using tools like seismic imaging and reservoir modeling. The role often requires technical skills, knowledge of industry regulations, and experience with specialized software.

What are popular job titles related to Upstream Engineering jobs in Raleigh, NC?

For Upstream Engineering jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Upstream Engineering jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Upstream Engineering jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

Upstream Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Upstream Engineering job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,219 per year, or $29.4 per hour.

6242 - Upstream Principal Engineer / Lead Validation Engineer

Verista, Inc.

Holly Springs, NC

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

We are seeking an Upstream Principal Engineer is responsible for overseeing the commissioning and qualification of Upstream systems. This role ensures that all systems are designed, tested, and documented in alignment with project requirements and safety standards.

Upstream Principal Engineer Responsibilities:Upstream System Leadership
  • Serve as the commissioning and qualification lead for Upstream systems (responsibilities described below).
  • Specific experience with chromatography systems, TFF filtration systems, viral filtration systems, and UFDF filtration systems.
C&Q Lead ResponsibilitiesCommissioning and Qualification Documentation
  • Gain a thorough understanding of system design by reviewing engineering documentation, P&IDs, and design specifications.
  • Develop User Requirement Specifications (URS) and Quality Risk Assessment for Equipment and Automated Systems (QRAES).
  • Engage with design engineers and SMEs to clarify system intent and operational requirements.
  • Ensure alignment with quality, automation, and engineering teams on critical parameters and documentation.
  • Create Commissioning Test Plans that translate design intent into testable steps.
  • Coordinate with the Automation Team to incorporate all automation functional testing.
  • Collaborate with SMEs to ensure system requirements are accurately reflected in test plans.
  • Develop Installation, Operational, and Qualification (IOQ) protocols.
  • Prepare and submit summary reports documenting commissioning and qualification activities.
System Ownership and Execution
  • Take custody of the system post-construction and maintain ownership through C&Q completion.
  • Perform Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) for system safety.
  • Conduct pre-startup safety checks and risk assessments.
  • Prepare daily pre-task plans and verify team readiness for safe execution.
  • Attend daily commissioning meetings to coordinate activities.
  • Execute commissioning and IOQ protocols.
  • Resolve issues arising during execution.
  • Participate in Factory Acceptance Tests (FATs) and Site Acceptance Tests (SATs) as required.
Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Life Sciences, Biotechnology, or related technical discipline
  • 10+ years of role specific experience
  • Experience supporting CQV activities in GMP-regulated pharmaceutical or biotechnology environments
  • Hands-on experience with downstream bioprocess equipment and purification systems
  • Strong understanding of validation lifecycle documentation (IQ/OQ/PQ, protocols, reports)
  • Ability to work independently while collaborating with cross-functional teams
  • Strong documentation, organizational, and communication skills
  • Experience with digital validation systems such as Kneat
  • Experience supporting FAT/SAT, commissioning, and equipment startup
  • Familiarity with risk-based validation approaches
  • Experience in biologics manufacturing or monoclonal antibody production environments
  • Onsite job requirement in Holly Springs, NC

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