Petroleum Technicians

Because of their many work situations, petroleum technicians' salaries vary widely based on geographic location, experience, and willingness to travel or relocate temporarily. Geological technicians who worked in the oil and gas extraction sector earned average salaries of $91,280 in May 2023, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. The lowest 10 percent of all geological technicians earned less than $34,160 annually, while the top 10 percent earned $108,750 or more. Derrick, rotary drill, and service unit operators in the oil and gas sector earned average salaries of $60,590.

In general, technicians working in remote areas and under severe weather conditions usually receive higher rates of pay, as do technicians who work at major oil companies and companies with unions.

Fringe benefits are good. Most employers provide health and accident insurance, sick pay, retirement plans, profit-sharing plans, and paid vacations. Education benefits are also competitive.