The oil and gas industry is a major provider of jobs for workers in Canada, and plays a key role in contributing to the country’s economy. Work opportunities can be found in 12 of the 13 provinces and territories in Canada, with the largest concentration of work in Western and Atlantic Canada.
Drilling positions offer hourly rates of between C
$34 and C
$40 and involve pipe alignment and manipulation, pump operation, and constructing and deconstructing rigs. Overseeing the work carried out by drillers are project engineers, who are employed to offer advice on potential risks and cost-saving opportunities. Salaries for these management roles average around C
$83,000 per annum.
Positions in the oil and gas industry often require working long hours. The work may be physically demanding and take place in a fast-paced environment. Flexibility in the job is important, as it may be necessary to work at different locations both within Canada and abroad.
Employers generally require at least two years’ experience for lower-level positions and between 10 and 15 years’ experience for management roles.