Mechanical Engineer vs Operations Engineer

Side-by-side career comparison in oil & gas

Mechanical Engineer Operations Engineer
Average Salary $87,357 - $125,066 $70,000 - $80,000
BLS Median $95,300 (BLS median) N/A
Open Positions 35 6
Education B.S. in Mechanical Engineering B.S. in Petroleum, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering
Key Certifications
PE License FE/EIT
Well Control Certification OSHA
Top Skills
Top Hiring Companies
Experience Levels Student: 3, Senior Level: 6, Entry Level: 25, Mid Level: 1 Entry Level: 6
Career Path Entry Level → Mid Level → Senior → Lead/Principal View full career path → Entry Level → Mid Level → Senior → Lead/Principal View full career path →

Which Is Right for You?

Choose Mechanical Engineer if you...

  • Have a background in Mechanical Engineering
  • Are interested in excel and related technologies
  • Want to work at companies like NOV
Browse 35 Mechanical Engineer jobs →

Choose Operations Engineer if you...

  • Have a background in Engineering (various disciplines)
  • Are interested in hydraulic fracturing and related technologies
  • Want to work at companies like Fervo Energy
Browse 6 Operations Engineer jobs →

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