Description

Reservoir engineers are specialists in locating - and helping petroleum companies effectively use - underground reservoirs of fossil fuels. Using geological expertise, knowledge of fluid mechanics, and various forms of technology, the reservoir engineer determines the location of underground fuel reservoirs and their reserve capacities, as well as whether their long-term viability makes them suitable for investment. The reservoir engineer works with geologists to monitor the reserves as fuels are extracted and makes adjustments to extraction processes as geological changes occur with the depletion of the fuel. As easier-to-reach fuel reservoirs are depleted internationally, reservoir engineering increasingly explores new techniques to locate viable drilling spots, and developing and modifying machinery to tap into these spots.Employers typically require at least a bachelor's degree in an accredited engineering program for entry-level positions, and state licensing is a requirement for all public-sector reservoir engineering jobs. Often, specialized coursework is desired for certain industries such as drilling mechanics, reservoir rock properties, and petroleum economics.Most reservoir engineering jobs are in the petroleum industry, though there are opportunities available as consultants and in academic positions. A reservoir engineer employed in the petroleum industry divides their time among offices, laboratories, and in the field, locating and maintaining drilling sites (which may require extensive, worldwide travel). Engineers are typically full-time employees who work in shifts of varying length. Often, they work three days and then take three days off.

Roles & Responsibilities

As a Reservoir Engineer with 0-3 years of experience in Australia, your main responsibilities include:

  • Evaluate and interpret geological and geophysical data to assess the potential of oil and gas reservoirs, using software tools and models.
  • Assist in the design and optimization of drilling and production strategies to maximize reservoir recovery and minimize costs.
  • Conduct reservoir simulation studies to forecast production rates, estimate reserves, and evaluate the performance of oil and gas fields.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to analyze production data, troubleshoot operational issues, and propose recommendations for reservoir management and enhancement.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For a Reservoir Engineer, the following qualifications are required:

  • Strong knowledge of reservoir engineering principles and techniques, including reservoir fluid behavior, well performance analysis, and reservoir simulation.
  • Proficiency in reservoir modeling software and other relevant tools to analyze and interpret reservoir data, perform reservoir characterization, and optimize production strategies.
  • Solid understanding of geology and geophysics concepts to integrate geological and seismic data into reservoir engineering studies and make informed decisions.
  • Effective problem-solving and decision-making skills to identify and overcome technical challenges, optimize production performance, and enhance reservoir recovery efficiency.

Essential Skills For Reservoir Engineer

1

Forecasting

2

Fluid Mechanics

3

Applied Engineering Geology

Career Prospects

The role of a Reservoir Engineer is crucial for managing oil and gas reserves efficiently. With 0-3 years of experience in Australia's energy industry, here are four alternative roles to consider:

  • Production Technologist: Responsible for optimizing production processes, well completion designs, and well intervention strategies.
  • Drilling Engineer: Focuses on planning and executing drilling operations, including well design, equipment selection, and drilling optimization.
  • Petrophysicist: Specializes in analyzing rock and fluid properties to evaluate reservoir characteristics and optimize production strategies.
  • Reservoir Geologist: Works closely with geoscientists to interpret geological data and develop reservoir models to estimate reserves and plan development strategies.

How to Learn

The job role of a Reservoir Engineer in Australia is projected to experience significant growth in the market. Over the past 10 years, there has been a consistent demand for professionals in this field, and this trend is expected to continue. According to the latest data points available with Google, the employment opportunities for Reservoir Engineers in Australia are estimated to increase further in the future. The projected growth of this position indicates a promising outlook for individuals pursuing a career as a Reservoir Engineer in Australia.