Operations Engineer vs Petroleum Engineer

Side-by-side career comparison in oil & gas

Operations Engineer Petroleum Engineer
Average Salary $70,000 - $80,000 $118,000 - $138,000
BLS Median N/A $130,850 (BLS median)
Open Positions 7 8
Education B.S. in Petroleum, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering B.S. in Petroleum Engineering
Key Certifications
Well Control Certification OSHA
PE License FE/EIT
Top Skills
Top Hiring Companies
Experience Levels Entry Level: 7 Entry Level: 3, Director: 2, Intern: 3
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 Operations Engineer if you...

  • Have a background in Engineering (various disciplines)
  • Are interested in python and related technologies
  • Want to work at companies like SpaceX
Browse 7 Operations Engineer jobs →

Choose Petroleum Engineer if you...

  • Have a background in Petroleum Engineering
  • Are interested in reservoir engineering and related technologies
  • Want to work at companies like Hilcorp
Browse 8 Petroleum Engineer jobs →

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