Shortage Of Experienced, Skilled Oilfield Workers At The Senior-level

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There is a shortage of qualified, experienced workers in the oil and gas industry and many positions lying vacant. There is also a significant number of job openings in industries that serve the oilfield. This article analyzes the present situation in the oil and gas industry and what skills recruiters are looking for to fill these vacant positions in senior level oilfield jobs.

More Job Vacancies In Alberta Oil Sands

A recent article points out the increase in the number of job opportunities in the oil and gas industry in Canada.

“The same issue has surfaced in Alberta where the Canadian Press recently published an article claiming that the oil-sands workforce is expected to expand by 73% by 2021, meaning 14,600 new jobs and, with some workers retiring, a net total of about 21,000 vacancies to fill.”

Senior Level Oilfield Personnel Approaching Retirement

An increasing number of senior-level executives who are working in the oil and gas industry are retiring or fast approaching retirement. This will result in inexperienced personnel taking over these positions which may affect the growth and stability of the oil and gas industry as a whole. Senior level executives are responsible for making strategic decisions that can influence not only oilfield workers at the entry level, but also impacts the growth of the company.

Steven C. Agee points out in his article,

“…the fact that many employees in the industry are approaching sixty years of age (or perhaps have already passed that milestone), the industry faces a very challenging period with upcoming retirements coupled with insufficiently experienced personnel to fill these soon-to-be vacant senior management positions.”

Recruiters Looking For Well-Rounded Leaders

No longer are recruiters looking for technical expertise alone, but for well-rounded individuals to fill vacant senior-level positions in the oil and gas industry. Recruiters look for leadership qualities, communication skills, adaptive ability, and a focused goal for achieving growth.

Tom Simmons, Jeffrey E. Hyler and Spencer Stuart point out further in their article titled, ‘The Hunt for Oil Executives:’

“Recruiters of top executives today are looking for well-rounded leaders, not just skilled technocrats. The ability to communicate, to motivate, to inspire – and the ability to cope effectively with ambiguity in a changing world – are as important as any technical experience and knowledge.”

This article throws light on the current demand for experienced workers at the senior-level in the oil and gas industry. In addition, it offers useful tips for suitable candidates to prepare themselves in order to qualify for senior-level positions.