How to Get A Job In Hydraulic Fracturing

Hydraulic fracturing is the process of pumping high pressure water, sand and chemicals deep underground into zones where oil and gas is present to break apart the rock and allow for easier recovery. Jobs in hydraulic fracturing pay well.

Instructions

1. Learn about what hydraulic fracturing is and determine if your educational background and physical abilities, plus your ability to relocate and work a non-traditional workday make you suitable for an oilfield job. Companies that do hydraulic fracturing hire persons from several different academic and blue collar backgrounds. Those with degrees in chemical engineering are hired as technicians and are involved with mixing and formulating the chemicals, water and sand combination that is pumped down the well. Those with degrees Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or Chemical Engineering may work in reservoir engineering in a main office to determine how to apply a frac job. In the field those with Associate Degrees in Mechanical Engineering, Diesel Mechanics, Hydraulics and Petroleum Technology may operate the large pumps and other equipment used in a frac job. Companies like Schlumberger and Halliburton hire those with extensive oilfield and mechanical experience as well. Skilled mechanics work in the shop where hydraulic fracturing equipment is serviced. After you find your niche in the hydraulic fracturing industry proceed to locate a University or two year college with the programs you need to succeed.

2. For those who can attend a four year school there are engineering courses the University of Texas, University of Oklahoma, Texas Tech University and Oklahoma State University that focus on petroleum engineering. Texas State Technical Institute in Waco, Houston Community College and others offer courses in oilfield technology. For additional experience try to find an intern position during your summer break with Halliburton, Baker Hughes, Schlumberger or another major oilfield services company. If no internships are available you can try to get a job as an entry level oilfield worker including that of a roustabout, mudlogger's sample catcher, service company manual laborer, etc. This will help on your resume and prove that you are not just a brain but able to do physical work. Employees of companies that do hydraulic fracturing are required to do physical labor in the field as well as have a broad base of scientific and mechanical knowledge. Determine if you have both the ability to demonstrate "book smarts" and a "get it done" mentality in performing physical tasks such as dragging and connecting hoses, driving heavy equipment, and operating and maintaining complex machinery. A CDL or commercial drivers license may very well be required for the job you are applying for with a company that does hydraulic fracturing. Consider taking a CDL course and getting your class A commercial license as well.

3. Prepare a well written resume documenting your educational background and work experience with an emphasis on how your skills apply to the job. Be prepared to relocate to anywhere in the world. In most cases you will be required to live within 20 to 30 miles of where the hydraulic frac job company is located. Most are located in traditional areas where oil and gas drilling occur, such as Midland Texas, Oklahoma City, Edmonton Canada and Casper Wyoming among other places.

Tips & Warnings

• Be prepared to relocate to an area where oil and gas exploration occurs.