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Petroleum Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Petroleum Engineer

Salt Lake City, UT Β· On-site

$42.72 - $55/hr

PETROLEUM ENGINEER FT / PT Status - Full-Time Salary - $42.72 - $55.00 Hourly Wage Remote Work / In ... Perform engineering review of Applications for Permit to Drill (APD's) * Review and approve Well ...

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Coordinates with engineering, finance, legal, construction, operations, environmental, HSE, and ... Petroleum Engineer | Technical Due Diligence & Engineering Validation For Upstream Oil & Gas ...

Petroleum engineering interns are assigned to production and reservoir engineering positions and projects that contribute value to Chevron. Projects are matched with interns based on degree pursued ...

Petroleum engineering interns are assigned to production and reservoir engineering positions and projects that contribute value to Chevron. Projects are matched with interns based on degree pursued ...

Petroleum engineering interns are assigned to production and reservoir engineering positions and projects that contribute value to Chevron. Projects are matched with interns based on degree pursued ...

Ryder Scott provides a complete range of professional engineering, geoscientific, economic ... Petroleum / Reservoir Engineer Description As a valuable member of our team, a Reservoir Engineer ...

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How much do petroleum engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for petroleum engineering in the United States is $80,025.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $114,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a petroleum engineer?

Petroleum engineers are professionals who design and develop methods for extracting oil and gas from deposits below the earth’s surface. They work closely with geologists to understand where resources are located and determine the best drilling and production techniques. Their responsibilities also include optimizing production, ensuring safety, and minimizing the environmental impact of extraction operations. Petroleum engineers can specialize in areas such as drilling, reservoir, production, or completions engineering.

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

To thrive as a Petroleum Engineer, you need a strong background in engineering principles, geology, and mathematics, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in petroleum or chemical engineering. Familiarity with industry-specific software like Petrel, Eclipse, and proficiency in data analysis tools, as well as relevant certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) licensure, are commonly required. Exceptional problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and make informed decisions in complex environments. These skills ensure efficient resource extraction, operational safety, and cost-effective project management in the highly technical and regulated energy sector.

What are some common challenges petroleum engineers face when working on drilling projects, and how can these be managed?

Petroleum engineers often encounter challenges such as unexpected reservoir behavior, equipment failures, and environmental concerns during drilling projects. Managing these issues typically involves collaborating closely with geologists, drilling crews, and environmental specialists to adapt plans and resolve problems efficiently. Staying updated on the latest drilling technologies and safety regulations also helps in proactively addressing potential setbacks. Good communication and problem-solving skills are essential to ensure project timelines and safety standards are met.

What is the difference between Petroleum Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectPetroleum EngineeringMechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Petroleum Engineering or related field; often professional engineering licenseBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; may require licensure for certain roles
Work EnvironmentOil rigs, drilling sites, exploration facilities, officesManufacturing plants, design labs, maintenance sites, offices
Industry UsageOil and gas extraction, drilling companies, energy sectorManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, energy systems

Petroleum Engineering focuses on the exploration, extraction, and production of oil and gas resources, often working in drilling and reservoir management. Mechanical Engineering has a broader scope, involving the design, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems across various industries. While both require strong engineering fundamentals, Petroleum Engineers specialize in the energy sector, whereas Mechanical Engineers work in diverse fields.

Do petroleum engineers get paid well?

Petroleum engineers typically earn high salaries due to the technical skills and specialized knowledge required in the oil and gas industry. Their compensation often includes bonuses and benefits, reflecting the industry's profitability and demand for expertise in reservoir modeling, drilling, and production optimization.

Is there a high demand for petroleum engineers?

Petroleum engineering is a specialized field with steady demand driven by global energy needs and oil exploration activities. However, employment can fluctuate with oil prices and technological advancements, and the industry increasingly values skills in reservoir modeling and drilling technologies.

What jobs can a petroleum engineer do?

Petroleum engineers design and develop methods for extracting oil and gas from underground reservoirs. They work in exploration, drilling, production, and reservoir management, often using specialized software and requiring knowledge of geology and engineering principles. They may work in office settings, on drilling sites, or in research and development roles.
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What cities are hiring for Petroleum Engineering jobs?

Cities with the most Petroleum Engineering job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Petroleum Engineering jobs?

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What states have the most Petroleum Engineering jobs?

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What are popular job titles related to Petroleum Engineering jobs?

For Petroleum Engineering jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Petroleum Engineering job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,025 per year, or $38.5 per hour.

Petroleum Engineer

Salt Lake City, UT β€’ On-site

$42.72 - $55/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

PETROLEUM ENGINEER
FT / PT Status - Full-Time
Salary - $42.72 - $55.00 Hourly Wage
Remote Work / In-Office - HybridRecruiter - Karen Weir kweir@utah.gov 8015387425
Application Deadline - 9/14/2026*
*This job posting may close at any time after the minimum advertising period of three (3) business days has passed, should a sufficient applicant pool be received. Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible.
Job DescriptionThe Division of Oil, Gas and Mining (DOGM) is looking for an outgoing, detail-oriented individual that enjoys challenges, working with people and can make difficult decisions. The Petroleum Engineer is a vital part of the DOGM team that makes decisions concerning oil and gas development in Utah. If this sounds like a career for you, then join us at the State of Utah, Division of Oil, Gas and Mining.
Key Responsibilities
Day-to-day responsibilities of this position:
  • Perform engineering review of Applications for Permit to Drill (APD's)
  • Review and approve Well Completion Reports, Workover Tax Credits, plugging and abandonment procedures
  • Review and approve UIC Permits (Class II) and Carbon Sequestration Permits (Class VI)
  • Determine program goals and objectives and/or chair committees established to support the program.
  • Provide consultations, make recommendations, give appropriate advice, and/or facilitate decisions to the Board of Oil, Gas, and Mining, oil and gas operators in Utah, other stakeholders, other Division employees and the public.
  • Act as an expert witness. Give testimony and/or recommendations in court cases and/or hearings.
  • Respond to public inquiries regarding our rules, regulations and policies.
  • Work Closely with Division field personnel concerning well operations and problems.
  • Investigate complaints and follow up with written findings and appropriate recommendations.

Qualifications
Minimum or "day-one" qualifications:
  • Oil and gas industry experience (drilling, completion, production and reservoir)
  • Drilling Engineer experience highly desired
  • Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Engineering or a similar discipline.
  • Knowledge of and ability to apply petroleum engineering principles and practices (i.e. BOP, drilling, casing and cement evaluation, completions, workovers and hydraulic fracturing)
  • Excellent coordination and communication skills (verbal and written).
  • Ability to coordinate and communicate with operators, other government agencies and the public.
  • The ability to direct contractors according to contract documents and engineering practices
  • Knowledge of well bore mechanics and design
  • The ability to evaluate costs of oil and gas operations
  • Highly proficient in Excel, Word, Windows 10, and decline curve analysis software
  • Knowledge and application of Utah Oil and Gas rules and statutes

Preferred or trainable/on-the-job qualifications:
  • Underground Injection Control (UIC) Class II experience
  • Underground Injection Control (UIC) Class VI experience
  • Professional Engineering License
  • GIS Experience

About the RoleLocation -
1594 West North Temple
Salt Lake City, Utah, 84116
United States
Background Check Required -
Drug Test Required -
Schedule Code - B - Competitive Career Service
Supplemental Information - Candidates must reside within the state of Utah
Work Schedule - 40 hours 8 to 5
Work environment, working conditions, physical requirements -General requirements associated with office work. May include some field work that involves mildly strenuous activity which will include walking in rough terrain carrying equipment such as camera, GPS unit, phone, sampling equipment and writing materials. Driving four-wheel drive vehicle in rough terrain miles from civilization. Working around workover/drilling rigs and high pressure and heavy lifting equipment. Working in all seasonal weather conditions.
Why You Should Join Our TeamIn Utah, we believe hard work is important, but balance is essential. Finding work/life balance is a vital element to our culture. To find out more about WHY Utah, click here. Other benefits may include:
  • Job Stability: Enjoy the security and reliability of employment within a well-established organization.
  • Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and gain opportunities for leadership within a large organization.
  • Meaningful Work: Contribute to an important service that benefits the community and supports organizational goals.
  • Supportive Work Environment: Be part of a team that values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.

The AgencyIn Utah, we believe hard work is important, but balance is essential. Finding work/life balance is a vital element to our culture. To Learn more about our agency and division, click the links below:
Utah Department of Natural Resources
Oil and Gas Home
EEO StatementThe State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, please contact (801) 957-9390.