How to Get a Job in Oil and Gas in Nigeria

Nigeria’s oil and gas industry is one of the most sought-after employment sectors due to its high earning potential, career growth opportunities, and economic impact. 

However, landing a job here is highly competitive, as many Nigerians vie for limited spots. Whether you’re a fresh graduate, a skilled professional, or someone looking to switch careers, here’s everything you need to know about getting started.

1. Understanding the Oil and Gas Industry in Nigeria

Nigeria’s oil and gas industry plays a pivotal role in the economy, contributing significantly to government revenue and exports. 

The sector encompasses various stages, including exploration, drilling, extraction, refining, and distribution of petroleum and gas products.

Key Players and Industry Segments

• International Oil Companies (IOCs): Companies like Shell, Chevron, ExxonMobil, and TotalEnergies are well-known for their contributions to Nigeria’s oil output and offer numerous job opportunities.

• National Oil Companies (NOCs): The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) manages the government’s interests in petroleum resources and is also a major employer in the sector.

• Local Oil Companies: Companies such as Oando, Seplat, Sahara Group, and Aiteo are significant players, especially in downstream and midstream sectors.

Industry Sectors You Can Work In

The oil and gas industry is divided into three main segments, each with different job opportunities:

1. Upstream: Focuses on exploration, drilling, and production of crude oil and gas. Engineers, geologists, and drilling technicians are crucial in this area.
2. Midstream: Deals with the storage, transportation, and distribution of oil and gas. This area offers roles in logistics, pipeline engineering, and safety compliance.

3. Downstream: Involves refining crude oil, processing it into usable products, and marketing it. This sector requires roles in quality control, sales, and environmental management.

2. Educational Qualifications Needed

While many job openings in oil and gas focus on technical skills, a wide range of qualifications are needed across different functions. 

A relevant education is often the foundation for most roles, and a Bachelor’s degree is typically the minimum requirement for entry-level positions.

Popular Degrees and Fields of Study

• Engineering: Degrees in Petroleum, Mechanical, Electrical, and Chemical Engineering are highly sought after in oil and gas for roles in exploration, drilling, and facility management.

• Sciences: Fields like Geology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Physics, and Geophysics are essential for roles related to exploration and environmental assessment.

• Business and Management: Courses in Business Administration, Economics, and Finance are important for managerial and administrative roles.

• Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE): Degrees or certifications in Occupational Health, Environmental Management, and Safety Compliance are beneficial for roles in safety management.

Further Studies and Certifications

In a competitive field like oil and gas, additional certifications can provide a significant advantage:

• Project Management Certification (PMP): This is highly valued for management roles across various functions.

• NEBOSH Certificate: For those interested in health and safety roles, the National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH) is often preferred by employers.

• Oil and Gas-Specific Certifications: Various institutions offer courses and certifications specific to the industry, such as the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) or specialized drilling and reservoir engineering courses.

3. Key Skills That Can Give You an Edge

There may need to be more than education; certain skills are essential to excel and make you stand out in the oil and gas sector.

Technical Skills

The technical skills you need depend on your role. For instance, engineers need proficiency in CAD software, while geologists might need expertise in seismic interpretation. It’s important to stay updated with the latest tools, software, and technologies in your specific field.

Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills

The oil and gas industry is data-driven, and the ability to analyze data, understand complex issues and make informed decisions is valuable across many roles. Problem-solving skills are essential in situations like operational breakdowns or unexpected geophysical challenges.

Communication and Teamwork

Oil and gas projects involve collaboration across departments, from engineering to safety to administration. Effective communication and teamwork skills are necessary, especially for conveying technical concepts to non-technical team members.

Project Management

Project management is essential in the oil and gas sector, especially for handling large projects that require efficient use of resources and tight deadlines. Knowledge in this area is beneficial, even if you’re not in a managerial position.

Health and Safety Knowledge

With safety being paramount in oil and gas, a strong understanding of health and safety regulations, risk assessments, and hazard management can set you apart.

4. Entry Points into the Oil and Gas Industry

The oil and gas industry offers multiple avenues for entering the field, each catering to different levels of expertise, qualifications, and career aspirations. Here are the most common entry points:

Graduate Trainee Programs

Graduate trainee programs are one of the most popular entry points for recent graduates looking to build a career in oil and gas. 

These programs are highly structured, offering trainees the opportunity to rotate across different departments, learn about the industry, and gain exposure to the company’s operations.

• Who Can Apply: Recent graduates with degrees in relevant fields (e.g., Engineering, Geology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Business Administration). Most companies have an age limit (often under 27-30 years), so this route is ideal for those fresh out of university.

• Duration and Structure: Trainee programs usually last from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the company. Trainees are often assigned mentors and undergo rigorous on-the-job training alongside classroom-style sessions.

• Benefits: These programs offer competitive salaries, full-time employment opportunities after successful completion, and a clear career path. They also serve as a stepping stone to mid-level and senior positions.

• Examples of Companies Offering Graduate Trainee Programs: Shell, Chevron, ExxonMobil, TotalEnergies, and NNPC all offer well-regarded graduate programs in Nigeria. Local companies like Seplat and Oando also have similar programs.

Internships and Industrial Training

Internships and industrial training positions are critical for students and recent graduates looking to gain relevant experience before entering the job market full-time.

Internships provide practical, hands-on experience and often serve as a prelude to more permanent positions.

• Who Can Apply: Undergraduate students (usually in their penultimate or final year) and fresh graduates in fields like Engineering, Geosciences, Environmental Science, and Business. Industrial training positions are generally available to students in polytechnics and universities undertaking required work experience as part of their curriculum.

• Duration and Structure: Internships can range from 3 months to 1 year, depending on the company and role. Interns work closely with experienced professionals, assisting with projects and gaining insights into industry practices.

• Benefits: Internships provide valuable work experience, which can enhance a CV and make candidates more competitive for graduate trainee programs or entry-level positions. Many companies also offer stipends or allowances for interns.

• Examples of Companies Offering Internships: Shell, NNPC, Chevron, TotalEnergies, Schlumberger, and Halliburton regularly offer internships in Nigeria. Local firms may also provide internship opportunities, especially in their downstream operations.

Apprenticeship Programs

Apprenticeships are typically available for individuals with technical diplomas or certifications and are focused on hands-on, skill-based training. 

These programs are ideal for those interested in technical roles, such as drilling, equipment maintenance, and pipeline operations.

• Who Can Apply: Candidates with technical diplomas or certifications from trade schools or technical institutions in fields like Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Welding, and Rig Operations.

• Duration and Structure: Apprenticeships often last from 1 to 2 years, depending on the technical complexity of the role. Apprentices work under experienced professionals, learning specific skills required in various oil and gas operations.

• Benefits: Apprenticeships provide on-the-job training, a pathway to skilled technician roles, and industry-specific experience. Some programs may offer stipends, and successful apprentices are often offered full-time positions upon completion.

• Examples of Companies Offering Apprenticeship Programs are NNPC, Schlumberger, Baker Hughes, and TotalEnergies, as well as specialized training centers in collaboration with oil and gas companies.

Experienced Hires

For professionals with prior experience in oil and gas or related fields, direct hiring is a viable entry point. Experienced hires bring specialized skills and knowledge, making them suitable for mid-level or senior roles.

• Who Can Apply: Individuals with at least 3-5 years of experience in oil and gas or related industries (e.g., mining, manufacturing, construction). 

Candidates with expertise in areas such as drilling, health and safety, project management, finance, and regulatory compliance are often sought after.

• Positions for Experienced Hires: Common roles include Project Manager, HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) Officer, Senior Engineer, Geologist, and Financial Analyst. Certain roles may also require advanced degrees or certifications (e.g., PMP, NEBOSH).

• Benefits: Experienced hires typically start at higher salaries than entry-level positions and may enjoy greater job security and opportunities for upward mobility.

• Examples of Companies Hiring Experienced Professionals: Major oil companies like Shell, Chevron, and ExxonMobil, as well as local companies such as Seplat and Aiteo, frequently recruit experienced professionals to support ongoing projects and operations.

Contract and Consulting Roles

The oil and gas industry relies on a network of consultants and contractors for specialized projects, especially during exploration and development phases. 

Contract roles are often available for individuals with niche skills who prefer project-based work over long-term employment.

• Who Can Apply: Professionals with specialized expertise, such as Drilling Engineers, Geophysicists, HSE Specialists, Project Managers, and Environmental Consultants. Many contract roles require significant experience, advanced technical skills, or industry-specific certifications.

• Duration and Structure: Contracts can range from a few months to several years, depending on the project’s scope. Contract workers may be brought in during the exploration, construction, or decommissioning phases.

• Benefits: Contractors are usually well-compensated and may receive allowances for travel, housing, and insurance, depending on the location and nature of the project. Contract roles offer flexibility but often need more long-term job security.

• Examples of Companies Offering Contract Roles: IOCs like ExxonMobil and Chevron, as well as service companies like Halliburton, Schlumberger, and Baker Hughes, frequently hire consultants for specific projects.

Entrepreneurial Opportunities and Startups

For those interested in the business side of oil and gas, there are also entrepreneurial avenues. Opportunities exist in fields such as logistics, procurement, oil servicing, and downstream distribution.

• Who Can Apply: Entrepreneurs and business-minded individuals who may have industry experience or access to capital. Networking, market research, and understanding industry regulations are crucial.

• Opportunities in the Sector:
  • Logistics and Transportation: Starting a company that provides transportation of oil products.

• Procurement and Supply Chain: Supplying equipment, machinery, and safety gear to oil companies.

• Oil Servicing: Offering specialized services like maintenance, environmental monitoring, or HSE compliance.

• Benefits: Starting a business in oil and gas can be highly lucrative if you identify a niche or offer a service that addresses industry needs. Successful entrepreneurs may also partner with larger companies for bigger contracts.

Skilled Trades and Technician Roles

The oil and gas sector relies heavily on skilled trades and technical roles, especially in downstream and midstream operations. These roles are critical to ensuring the smooth functioning of operations.

• Who Can Apply: Individuals with technical certifications or diplomas in fields like welding, pipeline maintenance, electrical systems, and instrumentation.

• Popular Technician Roles: Welders, Pipeline Technicians, Electricians, Mechanics, and Instrumentation Technicians are in high demand, particularly for onshore and offshore facilities.

• Benefits: Skilled trades often offer good pay and steady employment, especially in operational facilities. Companies may also sponsor additional training to upskill technicians as technology advances.

• Examples of Companies Hiring Skilled Technicians: NNPC, Shell, Chevron, and various oil servicing companies regularly hire technicians for field and facility roles.

Specialized Training Programs and Scholarships

Some institutions, companies, and government agencies offer specialized training programs or scholarships aimed at preparing candidates for oil and gas careers. These programs often provide practical skills and guarantee employment.

• Who Can Apply: Young professionals, recent graduates, and individuals in technical fields seeking career-specific training.

• Examples of Training Programs:
  • NNPC Scholarships and Training Programs: The NNPC, in collaboration with other agencies, offers scholarships and training to encourage talent development in the sector.

• Shell’s ASSIST Program: Shell’s ASSIST program provides training in essential oil and gas skills.

• Petroleum Training Institute (PTI): Located in Warri, PTI is one of Nigeria’s premier institutions for oil and gas training.

5. Steps to Take to Get Hired in the Oil and Gas Sector

To successfully land a job in oil and gas, you need a targeted strategy.

Step 1: Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter

Ensure your CV highlights relevant skills, experiences, and certifications. Use clear, industry-specific language. For example, if you’re applying for a role in drilling, emphasize relevant experience with drilling operations or safety compliance.

Step 2: Network with Industry Professionals

Networking can provide valuable connections and information about job openings. Attend conferences, seminars, and job fairs related to oil and gas. Platforms like LinkedIn are also valuable for connecting with professionals and recruiters.

Step 3: Regularly Check Job Portals and Company Websites

Many oil and gas companies post vacancies on their websites. Dedicated job portals like Rigzone, Oil and Gas Job Search, and Jobberman frequently list openings.

Step 4: Prepare for Interviews and Assessments

Oil and gas interviews often involve technical questions as well as behavioral assessments. Review the company’s operations and prepare for industry-specific questions. Practice answering both technical and situational questions.

Step 5: Stay Updated on Industry Trends

The oil and gas sector is continuously evolving, so staying informed on new technologies, regulations, and industry trends is important. Subscribing to industry journals or joining professional groups like the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) can be beneficial.

6. Challenges to Expect and How to Overcome Them

The oil and gas industry in Nigeria is highly competitive and demanding. Here are a few challenges to anticipate:

• Limited Job Openings: With high demand, it’s crucial to apply early, network, and continually improve your qualifications.

• Technical and Physical Demands: Field roles can be rigorous, often requiring long hours and physical labor. For such roles, physical fitness and resilience are beneficial.

• Offshore and Remote Locations: Some positions require long stints offshore, away from family and home comforts. Consider whether this aligns with your lifestyle before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Final Thoughts

Landing a job in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry requires a mix of the right education, skills, and strategies. Focus on building a strong CV, expanding your network, and staying informed about the industry. 

With persistence and the right approach, you can improve your chances of securing a rewarding position in one of Nigeria’s most coveted sectors.