What does a Petroleum Geologist do?

A petroleum geologist determines the location and size of crude oil deposits applying his or her expert knowledge of geological principles. He or she might work for an oil or gas company, a government agency, or as a freelancer, scouting new locations and locating oil reserves. A petroleum geologist might survey a region with advanced computer technology so that he or she can advise other experts on how and where to drill.

Scientists typically devote a significant amount of time to field research. Exploring land and ocean seabeds for oil deposits, a petroleum geologist may work alone or with a team of other professionals. He or she will take surface rock samples and drill a small sample well to collect subsurface sediments to look for signs that oil may be present in a specific location. To determine the presence of hydrocarbons and other minerals consistent with oil-rich areas, rock samples are examined using microscopes, geochemical analysis kits, and other laboratory equipment.

To help identify and record the locations of new reserves, modern petroleum geologists frequently use global positioning systems (GPS) and geographic information systems (GIS). A petroleum geologist can determine the exact location of a crude oil deposit, the likely yield, and the depth to which companies should drill using data collected GIS and GPS devices, three-dimensional graphing software, and physical samples. Geologists typically consider the environment and ecosystems surrounding a potential drill site, and advocate for careful drilling practices to reduce pollution and earth disturbances.

A minimum of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university is required to work as a petroleum geologist. Some employers, particularly government agencies, require master’s or doctoral degrees for new geologists. A beginning petroleum geologist may also choose to take a certification exam to improve his or her credentials and increase his or her chances of landing a job. The American Association of Professional Geologists (AAPG) offers certification in the United States. Petroleum geologists in many other countries are certified similar nationally recognized boards.

In general, there is a high demand for knowledgeable petroleum geologists. Scientists are being hired to find new reserves and maximize the output of existing wells as the world’s oil supply runs out. Experts are hired to lead new expeditions to previously uncharted territory, such as Antarctica and deep ocean depths. Geologists are needed to better explore Canadian territories and Alaskan regions, where glaciers and tundra expanses are likely to contain significant petroleum reserves.