A mudlogger is a professional in the oil and gas industry who keeps track of the conditions surrounding the drilling of a well. This member of a drilling crew is usually a junior member of the crew who works under the supervision of a geologist and has geology training and industry experience. This work can be filthy and exhausting, and it frequently necessitates travel to remote locations with cramped and unsuitable living conditions.
The mudlogger records drilling speed, any events that occur during the drilling process, and drilling substrate characteristics such as temperature and viscosity. She examines samples taken from the drill under a microscope on a regular basis, identifying various types of geological material. All of this data is recorded in a log, which paints a picture of the geological strata that the drill passes through. The mudlogger can compare data from other wells in the area to get a sense of the overall picture.
As the drill passes over valuable hydrocarbon deposits, this work includes identifying them. In addition, the mudlogger must spot potentially hazardous situations and notify the rest of the crew. These include signs of explosive or toxic materials, as well as changing characteristics indicating an increased risk of a well blowout. Mudloggers must be able to read information quickly and accurately and make decisions based on that information. Stopping work is very expensive, so it should only be done when there is a clear emergency.
A person who wants to work as a mudlogger usually has some experience in the oil and gas industry or in the field of geology. Others may work in this position after doing other types of work at drilling sites. Some people have geology degrees, while others may work in this position after doing other types of work at drilling sites. On-the-job training is available to help people become more familiar with their responsibilities and the working environment. The mudlogger collaborates with other team members, such as the wellsite geologist and the safety officer, to ensure that company procedures and the law are followed at all times.
Working as a mudlogger can provide opportunities to travel. These workers are required wherever companies are drilling wells, including in foreign countries, where there may be opportunities to travel outside of the drilling site to see the sights. Because of their unique skillsets and the inherent dangers of the work environment, people working in the oil and gas industry usually earn a lot of money. Depending on whether people work for the oil company or subcontract through a service that provides personnel to oil companies, benefits may include health care and pensions.