To become a petroleum engineering technician, one can earn an associate’s degree or complete a certificate program in petroleum engineering technology. A background in math and science is helpful, and internships or professional study programs are recommended. Advancement in the field may require a bachelor’s or graduate degree.
To become a petroleum engineering technician, you will likely need to earn an associate’s degree in applied sciences (AAS) or complete a certificate program in petroleum engineering technology. It is possible to earn a bachelor’s or master’s degree in petroleum engineering; higher degrees can help you advance in that field, but they are not usually necessary for a technician position. A solid background in math and science can help prepare a student for this career, and some experience in the petroleum industry may also be needed.
Someone interested in becoming a petroleum engineering technician should be comfortable with math and science and have an interest in geology and the petroleum industry in general. It helps to be logical and detailed. Since you will be working with engineers and scientists, you will need to work well with others. Most jobs take place in areas of the world where oil, gas and other energy deposits are found, such as the US states of Texas and Alaska.
The first step is to research community colleges or professional schools that offer petroleum engineering technology programs. To become a petroleum engineering technician, you will need to understand the practical aspects of petroleum engineering, and the program will usually consist primarily of courses directly related to the field. Expect to take classes in geology and math – including algebra and calculus – along with courses covering the petrochemical industry, exploration and technology. An AAS program typically takes two years to complete; a certificate program, which usually doesn’t include as much in-depth study, typically takes just one year.
In most cases, you will have the opportunity to participate in internships or professional study programs as you complete your education to become a petroleum engineering technician, and some schools require an internship before graduating. Even though it’s not mandatory, participating in these programs is a good idea because most employers require applicants to have some experience. On a work-study program, you can either shadow a professional who is already working in the industry or work one-on-one with a mentor. If formal internship programs are not available, you may be able to find volunteer opportunities for students by contacting a local oil company.
After graduating from a petroleum engineering technology program, you will need to apply for a job to become a petroleum engineering technician. You can find leads at the school or company where you worked as an intern. Most companies advertise these positions, so looking online for job sites or corporate websites can help you find available jobs. Many employers offer additional on-the-job training for new hires.
If you are interested in advancing in the field of petroleum engineering, you may be able to complete a bachelor’s degree program. Professionals with a four-year degree are often referred to as “technologists” rather than “technicians”. Typically, the more education you have in the field, the better your prospects for advancement. To become a petroleum engineer, you will need to complete a graduate degree.
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