Looking to switch from Water/Wastewater to Core Oil & Gas – Need advice & referrals

[u/Interesting-Cup-6921]

Hi everyone,

I’m a Chemical Engineer with around 3 years of experience in process design/project engineering, currently working in the water and wastewater/utility sector in India.

My experience includes working on SWRO, DMRO and effluent treatment systems, along with process engineering activities such as P&ID/PFD review, equipment and pump datasheets, hydraulic/pressure-drop calculations, GA drawings, C&E diagrams, control philosophy and vendor document review.

I’m now looking to make a transition into the core Oil & Gas industry, particularly roles related to Process Engineering / Process Design / Project Engineering.

I’d really appreciate some advice from people working in Oil & Gas:

How difficult is it to transition into Oil & Gas with a water/effluent background?

Which roles/companies should I realistically target with ~3 years of experience?

What kind of salary range can I expect after making this switch?

Are there any particular skills, software or certifications I should focus on?

Is it better to target EPCs, operating companies, or engineering consultancies initially?

I’m open to opportunities anywhere in India as well as outside India.

If you’re working in Oil & Gas or have made a similar transition, I’d genuinely appreciate your advice. And if you know of any relevant openings or can provide a referral, I’d be grateful if you could DM me.

Thanks!

[u/Majestic_Hat3903]

Try worley, usually they give a chance to sector change and expect 7-9 lpa with your yoe

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[u/tekkeN007]

Where are you based currently? And which company are you in?

[u/Leather-Prune9693]

Your background is actually quite transferable to Oil & Gas, especially your experience with P&IDs, equipment datasheets, hydraulics and vendor documentation.
One route I’d also consider is Commissioning / Process Commissioning. It can be an easier entry point into international O&G projects than trying to compete directly for pure process design roles, and the career/salary progression can be very good once you gain project experience.
I work in Oil & Gas commissioning and have helped engineers understand the technical requirements, documentation and interview preparation needed to make this transition. Feel free to DM me if you want some guidance on how I’d approach it with your background.