how to get into an O&G career??

[youngeng]

Hello
I recently graduated in Mech Eng in India. I would love to start a career in the Oil & Gas industry, but so far nobody answered to my applications!
Can any senior professional give me some advise? I would preferably work for an E&P operator, however I am available to start with an engineering company if that's the easier way!
Many thanks in advance!

[Max]

There is no standard career path and it depends on many things, including external factor as the industry's status - after a few years of aggressive recruitment, many oil comapnies have temporarily stopped recruiting campaigns for young engineers.

I would suggest you enter this industry first, without excluding consultancies or engineering companies at first. You may then change for an E&P operator when you have more experience. Also, a post-grade specialisation (e.g. Master, etc.) would definetely help you in the current economic conditions!

Good luck!

[Mastei]

First of all, make sure you have a good CV ready - investing a few dollars and having it reviewed by some professional e.g. at oilcareers.com is not a bad idea!
Remember to highlight your "pluses" over other youg engineers, a university degree does not make you shining amongst the others.

[youngeng]

Many thanks to both!

I have in fact sent tens of CVs to Oil Companies / Consultancies etc. but not a single reply so far!
It seems there is no market at all for people with no experience - but how do you get experience if anybody is willing to hire?
 

[Anuar]

Most of the big Majors have dedicated programs and recruitment plans for new graduates. In my case, I applied for a post-grade program sponsored by ENI in Milan and that was the key of success!

[mary]

Things are even harder for a woman... after years of pain to get a degree in Chemical Engineering, I am not able to find a job!! Help!!

[mudmike]

There are many ways to get a job. In these days of centralised recruitment, and online applications, it is still good to remember that all the major companies have multiple locations and that one area or country doesn't necessarily know what other areas are doing. If you don't get an answer from the centre, try other locations.

Email applications often get lost as spam, so spending time to research different locations and appropriate contacts is worth it. Even consider mailing your CV and cover letter or sending by DHL or Fedex. It looks more important than a simple email. More expensive but it might just get you noticed.

[Paulxx]

I personally found Statoil to have great graduates recruitment programs. Have a look at their web site - cheers Paul

[Apollo12]

Hi everybody

I suggest you all work really hard on your CV. Listing your experience and qualifications is not enough - especially if you are a young graduate with limited working experience!!
Make sure you prepare a very brief profile summary (5 to 8 lines maximum) where you highlight why you are different from the others and what makes you the perfect candidate.
Avoid standard statements e.g. "proactive" "good leadership" etc. - too common and absolutely meaningless!!

Good luck!