Production Engineer vs Reservoir Engineer

Side-by-side career comparison in oil & gas

Production Engineer Reservoir Engineer
Average Salary $148,145 - $181,479 $172,500 - $217,500
BLS Median $130,850 (BLS median) $130,850 (BLS median)
Open Positions 11 13
Education B.S. in Petroleum Engineering or Chemical Engineering B.S./M.S. in Petroleum Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or Geology
Key Certifications
PE License (recommended) Well Control Certification
PE License (recommended) SPE Membership
Top Skills
Top Hiring Companies
Experience Levels Entry Level: 9, Senior Level: 2 Entry Level: 10, Senior Level: 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 Production Engineer if you...

  • Have a background in Petroleum Engineering
  • Are interested in production optimization and related technologies
  • Want to work at companies like Crescent Energy
Browse 11 Production Engineer jobs →

Choose Reservoir Engineer if you...

  • Have a background in Petroleum Engineering or Chemical Engineering
  • Are interested in drilling and related technologies
  • Want to work at companies like Fervo Energy
Browse 13 Reservoir Engineer jobs →

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