How to Get a Job as a Geotechnical Engineer in the Oil Industry

A specialization of civil engineering, geotechnical engineering is a science that deals with the investigating and understanding of what is underneath the ground, a skillset of particular importance to companies that are buying & selling mineral rights. The other work that geotechnical engineering does is try to discover the impact that the geological formation will have on any construction project. The way that they will figure out exactly that is by use of advanced knowledge and mathematical process to examine a particular area, what formation makes up the earth beneath, around the residential, industrial buildings and commercials building.

After attaining the skills needed through studying geometric engineering, you can put your skillset to use drilling oil wells. You can also use your qualifications to for storage facilities, facilities that can transport petroleum products, examine the flow of water underneath, and construction products.

Credentials required for you to pursue a geometric engineering career.

  • Many employers prefer employees to have a geometric engineering degree.
  • Degree field in civil engineering.
  • The license of being professional engineering will be required too.
  • The key skills needed will include math skills, ability to operate tools like scales, levels and distance meter, writing skills, ability to use software like Trimble and geometrics.

Attaining the geometric engineering license

In all states, before you start a career in geometric engineering, you have to get a civil engineering license. While the  licensing requirements vary from state to state, the typical requirements are that you complete the accredited engineering program, have four years of experience, and that you pass the state exam. After completion of the degree, for the graduates, they can take the first part of the state licensing exam. Those that are going to pass will be referred to as engineers in training.

For the engineers in training after you have completed your four-year work experience, then you will be allowed to take the second licensing exam. If you are successful enough and you get to complete the principle and practice exam that’s when you will become a professional engineer. For some states, even after completing the PEs there is the continuing education such as completing college-level coursework or publishing the research papers.

The work of a geometric engineering

All construction work will take place on or in the ground, so it’s easy the role that geotechnical engineering will play in all the civil engineering projects. Even before you think about starting any construction work. The vital thing that you have to do is site investigation. The failure to carrying out the site investigation might not lead to negative consequence it might lead to even loss of life.

During any public or private development, the geometric engineer will guard all the earth physical environment. They have the skills needed in being able to investigate a site and determine the future and present stability that it has. If any project was to take place, then it will mean that it will involve so many changes. Due to the skills that they have in civil engineering and design, it will enable them to safely investigate the sites and give the constructor the way forward about the whole project.

Overview of Soil Mechanics and Foundation Engineering

Geotechnical engineering is made up of three branches: soil mechanics, foundation engineering, and rock mechanics. Foundation engineering is the application of rock and soil mechanics. Soil mechanics describe the behavior of the soil, and rock mechanics describe the behavior of different types of rocks. Most individuals pursue a degree in geotechnical engineering. Under this degree, students learn about the three branches.

Soil Mechanics

Soil mechanics look at the physical properties of soil. Specifically, they are looking at how a soil’s properties may affect strength, drainage, and stability. This is the basis for all geotechnical engineering. These properties are important when it comes to foundations.

Most students pursuing a geotechnical engineering degree are required to take courses in soil mechanics. They may learn how to classify soil types, evaluate shear strength of soil mass, estimate seepage volume, and predict foundation settlement.

Rock Mechanics

It is important that engineers understand how the properties of rocks will function during various uses. As an engineer, one is likely to have to assess strengths and properties of rocks being used for foundations or structures. Rock mechanics help determine how a particular type of rock will react when used for roads, bridges, buildings, tunnels, and dams among other uses.

Students may learn to evaluate the bearing capacity of a rock’s surface. Furthermore, engineering students need to understand how the force applied to rock by structures may affect the rock at different depths. The point of such knowledge is to inform engineers of safety requirements necessary to ensure a stable foundation.

Foundation Engineering

Courses in foundation engineering use the knowledge gleaned from courses in soil and rock mechanics to inform foundation designs. Students may be introduced to a variety of foundation structures and systems. Courses usually encourage discussions about foundation solutions to a variety of types of soil and rock conditions.

Careers

Many graduates will find they are qualified to work in the field of geotechnical engineering or positions more specific to one of the three branches. Most engineering jobs require that individuals obtain an engineering license. Geotechnical engineers typically use the principles of engineering to ensure foundations and structures are secure and stable against natural events like mudslides and earthquakes. Their job is to analyze and plan the construction of these foundations and support structures.

Graduates may be able to find a job as a soil engineer specifically. In such a position, one may be expected to analyze soil structure for a proposed building site. They provide information about the soil and problems proposed and existing structures might face. Soil mechanics informs both the design of structures as well as the structure itself.

Most geotechnical engineers work for dedicated organizations. Some individuals can make a living as freelance consultants or on a contract basis. Freelance and contract workers provide a variety of engineering work, consultation, and research as self-employed individuals.

Geotechnical engineering deals with the foundations of a variety of buildings and structures. They make sure the soil and rock can withstand the demands manmade structures put on them.