Oil Exploration Engineer Career

*A job as an Oil Exploration Engineer falls under the broader career category of Petroleum Engineers. The information on this page will generally apply to all careers in this category but may not specifically apply to this career title.

Job Description for Petroleum Engineers : Devise methods to improve oil and gas extraction and production and determine the need for new or modified tool designs. Oversee drilling and offer technical advice.


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Petroleum Engineer Career

Salary Info

Median Annual Wage

$153,560

Median Hourly Wage

$73.83*

Total Employed Nationally

18,970


Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2025 wage data and 2024-2034 employment projections. "Projected growth" represents the estimated change in total employment over the projections period (2024-2034). "Projected job openings" represent openings due to growth and replacement.