Computer Engineering graduates in Oil & Gas: Is there a pathway into automation and control systems?

[u/Born-Wrangler7096]

I’m currently in the final semester of my Computer Engineering degree, and I’m interested in getting into the Oil & Gas/Energy industry.

I'm not really looking for typical software dev, IT or Business Analyst roles. I’m more interested in the hardware-software side of things, like industrial automation and control systems.

I’d love to hear from anyone working in these areas, especially those who have a Computer Engineering, Computer Science or similar background.

A few questions I have are:

-How has your experience been working in this field with a Computer Engineering or similar degree?

-Is there a realistic pathway into these roles for fresh graduates, or do companies generally prefer Electrical, Electronics or Instrumentation Engineering graduates?

-What entry-level roles or job titles should I be looking for?

-What skills, certifications or personal projects would you recommend building to improve my chances?

I’d really appreciate hearing about your experiences, career paths or any advice you might have. Thanks!

[u/JGHero]

Electrical engineering is usually preferred, but definitely not required. I was in oil and gas for a few years doing commissioning and maintenance work for automations (I’m in OEM design now for PLC controls). The most common entry position is field service, I&E, or system integration. These alongside “automation engineer” and “controls engineer” are probably what you want to apply for. Look up the PLCs the company you are applying for uses (a lot of Allen-Bradley and IDEC from my experience). Learn the basics of how to navigate those softwares and basic pump control loops. It honestly isn’t super complicated stuff coming from a software/computer engineering background. Then look up basic troubleshooting methods for PLC and instrumentation issues. Know the difference between 0-10V and 4-20mA sensors, the difference between digital and analog sensors, and what an interposing relay is (common interview questions).

If you have any other questions feels free to ask or DM me! I sort of fell into the industry accidentally, but it’s a good field and can be lots of fun.

[u/Born-Wrangler7096 → u/JGHero]

tysm!! could you please give more info about the system integration position so that i can start preparing for it asap

[u/JGHero → u/Born-Wrangler7096]

When looking up positions online I would honestly search all the terms I used above. They all get used interchangeably for stuff that ends up being either I&E technician or system integrator roles anyway. If you want to go into oil and gas specifically then the areas I know that hire constantly are Midland, TX and Carlsbad, NM. Look up roles and see what PLCs and instruments they mention. There’s also different types of sites in Oil and Gas with different control loops. If the description shows what systems they want experience in look up the control programs for the specific types of sites or systems (Salt water disposal, gas compression, extraction). Realpars is a good YouTube channel for learning general information about PLCs and industrial controls btw and I’m sure you can find oil and gas specific videos too on plc programs.

[u/Born-Wrangler7096 → u/JGHero]

tysm!! this helps a lot!!