How to Be Petroleum Reservoir Analyst - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jul 11, 2020 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The development of petroleum reservoirs requires an in-depth understanding of a variety of disciplines such as geology, geophysics, petrophysics, engineering, and economics. As a result, petroleum reservoir analysts must possess a broad range of skills to properly analyze the data and make informed decisions. By utilizing their knowledge of reservoir dynamics, production techniques, and economic analysis, these analysts are able to identify and evaluate optimal production strategies.

This can lead to increased production, improved cost efficiency, and improved safety. their expertise can help in the discovery of new oil and gas fields, enabling resource optimization and security for the future.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. A bachelor's degree in petroleum engineering, geological engineering, or a related field is the minimum educational requirement for becoming a petroleum reservoir analyst. Those interested in this field should look for programs that offer classes in petroleum engineering and geology, as well as math, physics, and computer science.
Take Courses in Reservoir Engineering. Many universities offer courses in reservoir engineering. These classes provide an in-depth overview of the principles and practices of reservoir engineering and its applications in the petroleum industry.
Get Professional Experience. Most employers require at least two years of professional experience in the field before considering a candidate for a position as a petroleum reservoir analyst. This experience can be gained through internships or summer jobs with energy companies, consulting firms, and research labs.
Consider Obtaining an Advanced Degree. An advanced degree such as a master's or doctorate in petroleum engineering or geology can help an individual stand out when applying for a job as a petroleum reservoir analyst.
Pursue Certifications. There are several professional certifications that can be obtained that demonstrate an individual's expertise in the field of petroleum reservoir engineering. The Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) offers several certifications, including the Certified Petroleum Reservoir Engineer (CPRM) certification.
Keep Up with Industry Trends. It is important for petroleum reservoir analysts to stay up to date on the latest trends and developments in the field. This can be accomplished by reading industry publications and participating in professional organizations such as the SPE.

In order to become a skilled and competent petroleum reservoir analyst, one must have a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals of reservoir engineering and geology, such as fluid flow, rock and fluid properties, and reservoir characterization. This knowledge must be combined with strong analytical skills, including the ability to interpret data, assess reservoir performance, and develop reservoir management plans. Additionally, the analyst must be adept at using modeling software and have a good working knowledge of economics, risk analysis, and the various regulations and standards governing the industry. With these skills, the analyst can make informed decisions about the development and management of petroleum reservoirs, thus ensuring the maximum benefit for all stakeholders.

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Job Description

Develop and implement reservoir simulation models to evaluate production performance
Analyze reservoir data, such as well logs, core data, seismic data, and production data
Develop and implement reservoir management plans to maximize production
Utilize reservoir engineering software to develop production forecasts, plan well locations, and optimize production
Monitor and analyze changes in reservoir performance over time
Identify opportunities for improved production and cost savings
Design and execute field experiments to verify and improve reservoir models
Prepare technical reports and presentations regarding reservoir analysis
Coordinate with other departments to understand current and future needs
Participate in project teams to provide technical input and advice

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of geological and geophysical principles related to the exploration, development and production of oil and gas reservoirs
Ability to interpret geological and geophysical data, including seismic data
Expertise in geological modeling, reservoir simulation and economic analysis
Ability to interpret well logs, including porosity and permeability logs
Familiarity with related software programs such as Petrel, Eclipse, and PEEP
Expertise in the planning and design of reservoir management strategies
Knowledge of fluid flow dynamics and reservoir engineering principles
Understanding of reservoir production processes and techniques
Ability to interpret pressure transient test data
Knowledge of reservoir surveillance techniques
Familiarity with relevant legal and regulatory frameworks
Ability to prepare technical reports and presentations

The job of a Petroleum Reservoir Analyst requires a number of key skills to be successful. One of the most important skills is the ability to analyze geological data, such as seismic surveys, core samples, and drill logs, to identify hydrocarbon-bearing formations. This skill requires an understanding of subsurface geology, geophysical principles, and reservoir engineering.

a Petroleum Reservoir Analyst must possess a deep knowledge of mathematical and statistical techniques to accurately interpret data and make informed decisions about the development and production of oil and gas fields. Furthermore, a strong technical aptitude and familiarity with software programs used in the oil and gas industry are essential for success in this role. As the global demand for oil and gas increases, the need for qualified Petroleum Reservoir Analysts will continue to grow.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in petroleum reservoir analysis?
How do you stay up-to-date with industry trends and technologies?
Describe a time you had to make a tough decision related to reservoir analysis.
What methods do you use to optimize reservoir production?
How familiar are you with subsurface mapping technologies?
Explain how you would go about conducting a reservoir simulation.
Describe the key elements of a reservoir analysis report.
How do you ensure accuracy in your work?
What challenges have you faced in your previous roles and how did you overcome them?
What research activities have you conducted related to petroleum reservoir analysis?

Common Tools in Industry

Eclipse. Eclipse is a reservoir simulation software used to model fluid flow and pressure in an oil or gas reservoir. It can be used to optimize production and develop better field development plans. (eg: Shell use Eclipse for its North Sea fields)
OFM. OFM is a software tool for analyzing geologic, petrophysical, and engineering data from oil and gas reservoirs. It can be used to generate a variety of maps, diagrams, and reports to help evaluate the productivity of a reservoir. (eg: Chevron uses OFM to assess the performance of their deep-water Gulf of Mexico fields)
PVT. PVT stands for Pressure-Volume-Temperature, and it is a simulation program used to predict the behavior of fluids in oil and gas reservoirs. It can be used to calculate viscosity, phase behavior, and pressure gradients. (eg: BP uses PVT to develop their West African production fields)
GeoMechanics. GeoMechanics is a suite of tools used to analyze the mechanical properties of rocks in an oil or gas reservoir. It can be used to predict the stresses, strains, and deformations of a reservoir as it is produced. (eg: ExxonMobil uses GeoMechanics to optimize their deepwater Gulf of Mexico fields)
Petrel. Petrel is a software package commonly used for geophysical interpretation and reservoir characterization. It can be used to create maps and 3D models of a reservoir that are used to evaluate its potential productivity. (eg: Total uses Petrel to analyze its offshore fields in the North Sea)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Association of Petroleum Geologists
Society of Petroleum Engineers
Society of Petroleum Evaluation Engineers
American Institute of Professional Geologists
International Association of Sedimentologists
Society of Exploration Geophysicists
American Association of Drilling Engineers
International Association of Drilling Contractors
International Association of Geophysical Contractors
American Rock Mechanics Association

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Common Important Terms

Porosity. The percentage of a reservoir's total volume that is composed of pores, or spaces between grains of solid material.
Permeability. A measure of the ability of a material to transmit fluids, such as water or oil, through its pore or interconnected voids.
Fluid saturation. The fraction of the total pore space in a reservoir that is filled with fluid.
Gas cap. A layer of gas located above an oil reservoir which acts as a natural seal, preventing the oil from seeping out.
Pressure gradient. The rate of pressure change over a given distance.
Hydrocarbon saturation. The fraction of fluid present in the pore space that consists of hydrocarbons.
Reservoir simulation. A computer-aided engineering tool used to simulate the flow of fluids inside a reservoir.
Reservoir modeling. The process of creating a three-dimensional representation of a reservoir using geological data.
Reservoir characterization. The process of gathering data about a reservoir and using it to develop an understanding of its properties and behavior.
Flow regime. The pattern of flow in a reservoir, typically described by the type and rate of fluid movement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Petroleum Reservoir Analyst?

A Petroleum Reservoir Analyst is a specialist who evaluates and assesses the performance of oil and gas reservoirs. They analyze data from drilling, production, geology, and other sources to identify ways to maximize the recovery of oil and gas from a reservoir.

What qualifications are needed to become a Petroleum Reservoir Analyst?

To become a Petroleum Reservoir Analyst, one needs a degree in petroleum engineering, geology, or a related field. Knowledge of reservoir engineering principles and computer modeling is also necessary.

What duties does a Petroleum Reservoir Analyst typically perform?

Typical duties of a Petroleum Reservoir Analyst include developing reservoir simulation models, monitoring production operations, conducting pressure surveys, analyzing well log data, and recommending appropriate strategies to maximize reservoir performance.

What tools do Petroleum Reservoir Analysts use?

Petroleum Reservoir Analysts use a variety of tools such as mathematical models, geophysical and geological mapping software, reservoir simulation software, and various other software packages to analyze data and develop strategies for maximizing reservoir performance.

What is the average salary for a Petroleum Reservoir Analyst?

The average salary for a Petroleum Reservoir Analyst is approximately $85,000 per year. Salaries can vary widely depending on location, experience, and other factors.