Wellsite Geologist Spotlight
- 2 min read
Wellsite Geologists see the world five metres at a time. They analyze every five-metre interval of rock being gathered during drilling operations and then guide the drillers based on what they find.
What a typical day looks like:
Wellsite Geologists supervise every stage of the drilling process to extract natural gas and oil from deep underground. Before drilling begins, they use specialized tests, rock-cutting data, wireline data and core samples to analyze rocks and direct the drilling of oil and gas wells. They identify wellbore landings and target adjustments to drill data in horizontal wells. During drilling, they check the quality of the logging data and work closely with the Rig Supervisor to highlight any geological risks and to advise on necessary changes to the well plan. When the day is nearly done, they prepare reports, files and interpreted data that is sent to the operating company.
The kinds of problems Wellsite Geologists solve at work:
Oil and gas were formed under pressure and Wellsite Geologists work under it. With long shifts, often in remote locations and for extended time periods, they keep drillers updated on the rocks through which they can expect to drill during the shift.
Wellsite Geologists also keep a particular eye out for hazards, like gas formations. In some cases, an experienced Wellsite Geologist might suspend drilling activity due to prohibitive ground conditions.
Skills used most on the job:
Wellsite Geologists are analytical thinkers with a scientific approach to their work. Their microscopes provide invaluable insight into the rock itself while their geological expertise helps them understand what they’re seeing and what it means for the project. Wellsite Geologists are careful record-keepers and thoughtful risk managers, guiding the drilling team safely as they navigate deeper.
Peering into the exquisite patterns and crystals in rocks that have been covered by earth for millions of years, Wellsite Geologists look into the ancient past with an eye to safety in the present, always five metres at a time.
