How to Enter the Petroleum Sector with a Degree in Chemical Engineering

Chemical engineering majors looking to break into the petroleum sector have several viable avenues to explore. Companies in the oil refining, gas processing, petrochemical processing, and plastics manufacturing industries often seek out chemical engineers, both during their undergraduate years and as full-time employees. Many of these companies offer internships to talented students, providing hands-on experience and potential job offers upon completion of the program.

Top Employers in the Petroleum Sector

The petroleum industry is rich with major players that hire chemical engineers. Some of the leading companies include:

Exxon Chevron Phillips Valero British Petroleum (BP) Aramco Petrobras Pemex Koch Industries Suncor Hoechst BASF Halliburton Schlumberger Wetherford Baker Hughes General Electric Honeywell Siemens Air Liquide

Recruitment Through Gate Exam and Internships

To enter the petroleum sector, the most effective strategy is to secure a good score in the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (Gate) and perform exceptionally in interviews. While this might not be the only pathway, it is often the most reliable means of gaining entry into the industry.

Success in these tests and interviews often hinges on a deep understanding of distillation columns, a key component in the petroleum process. Questions about distillation columns are common and mastering these topics will significantly enhance your chances of excelling.

Additionally, many petroleum-based companies recruit through Gate scores. To succeed in this sector, it is essential to strive for a very high Gate rank, particularly if you aim to join Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs).

Strategies for Entering the Petroleum Sector

There are three common pathways for chemical engineers to enter the petroleum industry:

1. Direct Production and Refineries

Working directly on site in exploration or refineries is one route. Companies like Reliance, BPCL, and HPCL offer rewarding jobs, albeit not always challenging but among the well-paid. Gaining experience here can be highly beneficial for future career advancement.

2. Joining a Design Company

Joining design companies such as Jacobs, Black Veatch, Honeywell, and others involves designing major projects for the aforementioned companies. These roles are highly challenging and offer great opportunities for diversification. To secure a position in these top-tier design firms, you need to ensure you are among the best in your field.

3. Pursuing a Masters Abroad

An alternative strategy is to do a Master's degree abroad and then join petroleum companies in those countries. The global crude market is on the rise, though it is not at its peak yet.

Regardless of the route you choose, hard work and a strong foundation in chemical engineering principles are key to success in the petroleum sector.