All good things must come to an end..
I am no longer with the same company any more, and so I have a new blog. It can be found here http://oilfield-services.blogspot.com/
I'm dealing with different clients and areas, but it would be great if you could encourage any one you know to kepe an eye on it.
All the best.
Friday, 4 June 2010
Friday, 23 April 2010
Returned at last
Well, as some of you may have guessed, I am now the proud father of a lovely baby boy called James, born on the 7th, 7lbs 14oz. He had a bit of a dramatic entrance, but mum and baby are fine now, and we're very happy.
Of course, only now am I getting back into the swing of things, and getting up to date with the recent developments in the market. Of course, the Horizon disaster is one of the main headlines at the moment, and is really tragic. I know all our thoughts are with the families of those killed and injured. It just shows how important proper safety and other procsdures are, and how much the industry needs to continue improving and updating these systems and processes.
It's not uncommon in what I do for me to speak to candidates who complain bitterly about the HSE systems on board a rig, and very often this will be the reason why they are looking to leave. Although things are a lot tighter than they used to be, and in the North Sea in particular, procedures are obviously extremely stringent, I still come across people working for Major contractors who tell me about situations where corners are cut, people aren't there when they have to be, and of horrible mistakes and accidents. Hopefully this horrible incident will encourage some companies once again to look at where they can increase safety rather than cut costs.
In other news, Vantage Drilling are profiled in Rigzone this week. A relatively new Contractor, they seem to have developed a good reputation for themselves, and are continuing to grow.
Maersk have a new rig which will be out later this year. My money would be it'll go to GOM or Brazil, but I am guessing slightly.
Also, Halliburton are to buy Boots and Coots. This came as abit of a surprise to me, but as usual, what do I know.. Article here
There was an interesting article on Reuters here about where things might be headed, and hinted at a combination of caution and slight optimism for the rig markets.
Jobs wise, I'm still getting into things again, but always on the lookout for solid people with good experience and in-date certification.
Of course, only now am I getting back into the swing of things, and getting up to date with the recent developments in the market. Of course, the Horizon disaster is one of the main headlines at the moment, and is really tragic. I know all our thoughts are with the families of those killed and injured. It just shows how important proper safety and other procsdures are, and how much the industry needs to continue improving and updating these systems and processes.
It's not uncommon in what I do for me to speak to candidates who complain bitterly about the HSE systems on board a rig, and very often this will be the reason why they are looking to leave. Although things are a lot tighter than they used to be, and in the North Sea in particular, procedures are obviously extremely stringent, I still come across people working for Major contractors who tell me about situations where corners are cut, people aren't there when they have to be, and of horrible mistakes and accidents. Hopefully this horrible incident will encourage some companies once again to look at where they can increase safety rather than cut costs.
In other news, Vantage Drilling are profiled in Rigzone this week. A relatively new Contractor, they seem to have developed a good reputation for themselves, and are continuing to grow.
Maersk have a new rig which will be out later this year. My money would be it'll go to GOM or Brazil, but I am guessing slightly.
Also, Halliburton are to buy Boots and Coots. This came as abit of a surprise to me, but as usual, what do I know.. Article here
There was an interesting article on Reuters here about where things might be headed, and hinted at a combination of caution and slight optimism for the rig markets.
Jobs wise, I'm still getting into things again, but always on the lookout for solid people with good experience and in-date certification.
Thursday, 1 April 2010
Drill Obama, Drill
Sorry, i couldn't resist the title.
As the birth of my first born approaches I've been a bit lax posting, so apologies for that. It's imminenet, so if I don't post anything for a week or so, then it'll be here. Or it'll be because I just haven't posted anything...
Big changes in the American offshore sector were announced today, which I suspect most of you will know about, but if not there is a link here. Of course, it won't mean much until 2012, but it gives us something to look forward to.
It seems though that the media aren't too clear on what will happen, many think that the price of petrol will plummet the moment there is a rig in the sea, and worse still, they think that hundreds of platforms will be built overnight, blocking shipping and attracting enemy radar. Not that I claim to know everything by any means, but I'm pretty sure this won't be the case.
Drilling has been underway in Iraq for a while now, but BP have awarded some drilling contracts recently. I did have a client who were looking for a large number of Middle Eastern nationals for some roles there, but they were contract roles, so the insurance premiums for us would be through the roof.
Bad news in the Falklands, it seems the oil quality wasn't great of the little that they did find. I guess they might find more elsewhere, but it doesn't bode too well, especially considering the political cost with the Islands' Argentinian neighbours.
I can't remember if this has been posted by me already, but the Stena Don is off to Greenland for Cairn Energy, to join the Stena Forth. I don't think they hav efound anything yet, but here's hoping.
So that's about all for today. Jobs wise, things are still up and down. I'm looking for:
As the birth of my first born approaches I've been a bit lax posting, so apologies for that. It's imminenet, so if I don't post anything for a week or so, then it'll be here. Or it'll be because I just haven't posted anything...
Big changes in the American offshore sector were announced today, which I suspect most of you will know about, but if not there is a link here. Of course, it won't mean much until 2012, but it gives us something to look forward to.
It seems though that the media aren't too clear on what will happen, many think that the price of petrol will plummet the moment there is a rig in the sea, and worse still, they think that hundreds of platforms will be built overnight, blocking shipping and attracting enemy radar. Not that I claim to know everything by any means, but I'm pretty sure this won't be the case.
Drilling has been underway in Iraq for a while now, but BP have awarded some drilling contracts recently. I did have a client who were looking for a large number of Middle Eastern nationals for some roles there, but they were contract roles, so the insurance premiums for us would be through the roof.
Bad news in the Falklands, it seems the oil quality wasn't great of the little that they did find. I guess they might find more elsewhere, but it doesn't bode too well, especially considering the political cost with the Islands' Argentinian neighbours.
I can't remember if this has been posted by me already, but the Stena Don is off to Greenland for Cairn Energy, to join the Stena Forth. I don't think they hav efound anything yet, but here's hoping.
So that's about all for today. Jobs wise, things are still up and down. I'm looking for:
- Cementing equipment Installation Project co-ordinators with experience on deepwater rigs for a variety of locations.
- Subsea Engineers with Hydril/MUX experience for a variety of locations
- Good Senior Drilling candidates for some Jack ups in Malaysia going to Mumbai.
If you know anyone, pass this on. I'm trying to get my readership up to 500, (currently 200) so please do ask your buddies and pals to come and have a look.
Monday, 22 March 2010
Recruitment Scams
Got this email from Oil Offshore Marine re: recruitment scams. Probably worth a look if you are unsure what to look out for.
1. Job Scams: What is a job scam? How do the scammers act? How to protect yourself? and more... http://www.oil-offshore-marine.com/bewarejobscams.php
2. How to Use a Big Name for Illegal Gains: Shell Nigeria Fake Website http://www.oil-offshore-marine.com/how-to-use-a-big-name-for-illegal-gains-shell-nigeria-fake-website.php
3. AkerKvaerner Fraud Attack http://www.oil-offshore-marine.com/aker-kvaerner-fraud-attack.php
4. Statoil ASA "Joins" the Scams "League" http://www.oil-offshore-marine.com/statoil-asa-joins-the-scams-league.php
5. One Company - Several Websites? http://www.oil-offshore-marine.com/one-company-several-websites.php
6. Does ExxonMobil Have a New Website? http://www.oil-offshore-marine.com/does-exxonmobil-have-a-new-website.php
7. And, of course, the famous Scam Black List from http://www.oil-offshore-marine.com/bewarejobscams.php#7
It will only take a couple seconds of your time, but it may save someone you know both money and time. Please help us. We Need You!
1. Job Scams: What is a job scam? How do the scammers act? How to protect yourself? and more... http://www.oil-offshore-marine.com/bewarejobscams.php
2. How to Use a Big Name for Illegal Gains: Shell Nigeria Fake Website http://www.oil-offshore-marine.com/how-to-use-a-big-name-for-illegal-gains-shell-nigeria-fake-website.php
3. AkerKvaerner Fraud Attack http://www.oil-offshore-marine.com/aker-kvaerner-fraud-attack.php
4. Statoil ASA "Joins" the Scams "League" http://www.oil-offshore-marine.com/statoil-asa-joins-the-scams-league.php
5. One Company - Several Websites? http://www.oil-offshore-marine.com/one-company-several-websites.php
6. Does ExxonMobil Have a New Website? http://www.oil-offshore-marine.com/does-exxonmobil-have-a-new-website.php
7. And, of course, the famous Scam Black List from http://www.oil-offshore-marine.com/bewarejobscams.php#7
It will only take a couple seconds of your time, but it may save someone you know both money and time. Please help us. We Need You!
Wednesday, 17 March 2010
Happy St. Patrick's day
Too busy at the moment, lots of stuff happening, which I can only view as an encouraging sign.
Quite a few new contracts and oil fields going out to tender, so let's hope we can get everone back to work, and make everyone's life that bit easier.
Dolphin have won 2 new contracts for their rigs, which is good news, the Bredford and the Bideford. And Seadrll have a contract for the West Epsilon. It might be old news, but Rowan also have picked up the odd bit of work on their monstrous Jack up Rigs.
There's still some debate goping on about the Falklands, but I won't repeat myself here, and there's also the ongoing hat about developing US offshore drilling, but again, it would take me forever to link to it all. Safe to say, there's a lot of Chat, and not much action.
Finally, the BBC have a report about how expensive petrol is in the UK (that's Gas to our American cousins). It is getting very expensive to go for a spin these days. No link, but you can expect this to become a major issue again once the election nonsense is over.
Jobs wise, most of mine are covered at the moment, but if you know any good Cyberbase Drillers with Deepwater experience, please pass my details on.
Quite a few new contracts and oil fields going out to tender, so let's hope we can get everone back to work, and make everyone's life that bit easier.
Dolphin have won 2 new contracts for their rigs, which is good news, the Bredford and the Bideford. And Seadrll have a contract for the West Epsilon. It might be old news, but Rowan also have picked up the odd bit of work on their monstrous Jack up Rigs.
There's still some debate goping on about the Falklands, but I won't repeat myself here, and there's also the ongoing hat about developing US offshore drilling, but again, it would take me forever to link to it all. Safe to say, there's a lot of Chat, and not much action.
Finally, the BBC have a report about how expensive petrol is in the UK (that's Gas to our American cousins). It is getting very expensive to go for a spin these days. No link, but you can expect this to become a major issue again once the election nonsense is over.
Jobs wise, most of mine are covered at the moment, but if you know any good Cyberbase Drillers with Deepwater experience, please pass my details on.
Tuesday, 2 March 2010
Usual Mix
It's been some few weeks, but at least the weather is turning back into spring.
There's been a fair bit happening, and as usual here's the highlights as scientifically chosen by me based on what I think is interesting:
Transocean's profits have gone down a bit, link here and there's also a reasonable overview of the market in the article. This article also highlights how demand on deepwater rigs is going to increase costs and put pressure on the market. This in turn will put pressure on the labour market, so if you want my opinion (unqualified though it may be), deepwater is definitely where you want to be getting your skills if you want to remain at the top of the job pile.
A few contractors flirting with Aramco to get their rigs in use, no bad thing, although I have heard that they can be quite a demanding client, plus visas for Saudi are something of a nightmare.
Songa haven't been impressing anyone recently with their stance stopping people getting off their rig in Singapore. I see it's over now, but I haven't heard of this happening before. Don't really know all the details, but there does seem to be a fair bit of union activity down in the antipodes at the moment.
More Falklands news, they're already looking for another rig down there.
And finally, some encouragement from the folks at Rigzone.
Jobs wise:
AD for Cyberbase Semi in North Sea.
Driller and Chief Engineer for 70 days in North Sea. Semi Experience.
Barge Master for DP2 Barge in UAE
Mooring Master for non-propelled, moored barge in UAE
Maintenance Super for FPSO in SE Asia
Chief Electrician and Chief Mechanic for Jack ups in India
As usual, please email me and tell your friends...
There's been a fair bit happening, and as usual here's the highlights as scientifically chosen by me based on what I think is interesting:
Transocean's profits have gone down a bit, link here and there's also a reasonable overview of the market in the article. This article also highlights how demand on deepwater rigs is going to increase costs and put pressure on the market. This in turn will put pressure on the labour market, so if you want my opinion (unqualified though it may be), deepwater is definitely where you want to be getting your skills if you want to remain at the top of the job pile.
A few contractors flirting with Aramco to get their rigs in use, no bad thing, although I have heard that they can be quite a demanding client, plus visas for Saudi are something of a nightmare.
Songa haven't been impressing anyone recently with their stance stopping people getting off their rig in Singapore. I see it's over now, but I haven't heard of this happening before. Don't really know all the details, but there does seem to be a fair bit of union activity down in the antipodes at the moment.
More Falklands news, they're already looking for another rig down there.
And finally, some encouragement from the folks at Rigzone.
Jobs wise:
AD for Cyberbase Semi in North Sea.
Driller and Chief Engineer for 70 days in North Sea. Semi Experience.
Barge Master for DP2 Barge in UAE
Mooring Master for non-propelled, moored barge in UAE
Maintenance Super for FPSO in SE Asia
Chief Electrician and Chief Mechanic for Jack ups in India
As usual, please email me and tell your friends...
Friday, 19 February 2010
No war yet
Not any new ones anyway...
News wise, some boys in London were done for insider trading on oil stocks.
At the risk of repeating myself, Pride are now doing well on the deepwater side, and struggling with the Jack ups.
And, because I'm on a roll when it comes to repetition, here's the latest on the Falklands.
Jobs wise, there's only a few things on the go:
Cementing installation project co-ordinator - need equipment installation experience
2nd Engineer PSV - North Sea
Marine Superintendant - Shore based Singapore.
Sorry not more chat this week, just trying to find the time.
News wise, some boys in London were done for insider trading on oil stocks.
At the risk of repeating myself, Pride are now doing well on the deepwater side, and struggling with the Jack ups.
And, because I'm on a roll when it comes to repetition, here's the latest on the Falklands.
Jobs wise, there's only a few things on the go:
Cementing installation project co-ordinator - need equipment installation experience
2nd Engineer PSV - North Sea
Marine Superintendant - Shore based Singapore.
Sorry not more chat this week, just trying to find the time.
Friday, 12 February 2010
Running to stay still
Big gap between postings this and last week, largely due to a high work volume, so I can't really complain. Few new jobs in, see the end as usual.
The Falklands are the big story at the moment. The UK plans to start drilling there in February, and the Argentinians are less than happy, claiming soveriegnty over the area. With all of our eggs in the Iraq and Afghanistan baskets, I don't know how sensible an idea this is to be poking this particular animal, but what do I know. Lots of links on this here and here and an FT article is here (remember you only get one of these a day!)
Also, the Latest development which I got as I was writing this, the Argentines have blocked a vessel with some supplies, so I think they might do something similar when the rig goes there.
This is quite interesting too, although it's just a short term contract, it looks like American companies are invovled in shallow water jack up work in Brazil. Let's hope there's more work for Jack ups down there, as it'll increase demand for staff.
Finally, Richard Branson appears to have jumped on the Peak Oil bandwagon, but let's be honest, this article is in the Mirror..
Jobs wise, a lot of Marine requirements at the moment.
- HSE co-ordinator and Chief Engineer for accommodation Barge in West Africa
- SDPO and Barge Master for Construction/pipelay Barge in SE Asia (DP2)
- Master Mariner for OSV in North Sea
- 2nd Engineer for PSV in North Sea
Cheers, will try to post a bit earlier next week, if we aren't at war with Argentina of course.
The Falklands are the big story at the moment. The UK plans to start drilling there in February, and the Argentinians are less than happy, claiming soveriegnty over the area. With all of our eggs in the Iraq and Afghanistan baskets, I don't know how sensible an idea this is to be poking this particular animal, but what do I know. Lots of links on this here and here and an FT article is here (remember you only get one of these a day!)
Also, the Latest development which I got as I was writing this, the Argentines have blocked a vessel with some supplies, so I think they might do something similar when the rig goes there.
This is quite interesting too, although it's just a short term contract, it looks like American companies are invovled in shallow water jack up work in Brazil. Let's hope there's more work for Jack ups down there, as it'll increase demand for staff.
Finally, Richard Branson appears to have jumped on the Peak Oil bandwagon, but let's be honest, this article is in the Mirror..
Jobs wise, a lot of Marine requirements at the moment.
- HSE co-ordinator and Chief Engineer for accommodation Barge in West Africa
- SDPO and Barge Master for Construction/pipelay Barge in SE Asia (DP2)
- Master Mariner for OSV in North Sea
- 2nd Engineer for PSV in North Sea
Cheers, will try to post a bit earlier next week, if we aren't at war with Argentina of course.
Monday, 1 February 2010
Time flies
Back around to Monday again already.
Slightly oil related conspiracy theory of the year here. I'm sure this happened in a James Bond film...
In more relevant news, Ensco have been profiled in this article, highlighting the problems that they are going to face with these shiny new rigs of theirs. There's a few deepwater rigs already out of contract, but hopefully they'll be able to pick up some work with a decent operator so they can recoup some of their costs - my money is on Petrobras....
True to form, the UK government have decided way too late to give tax breaks for oil exploration in the North Sea. In my humble opinion (from my exalted standpoint of knowing next to nothing about anything) this is FAR too late. If they had dones something a year ago, perhaps the problems in the North Sea would have been a lot less serious. Anyway, the article is here.
Songa are up, Hercules are down. Showing once again that companies that deal with me for their recruitment can only do well out of it.
OK, it might also have something to do with Songa being a small deepwater driller, and Hercules being a much larger driller, having Jack ups and Barges, which are not popular options at the moment.
Jobs wise, pretty much covered for candidates at the moment, but I wanted to post a bit of advice when it comes to writing CVs/resumes for oil and gas:
- Always write a CV in reverse chronological order, most recent position first.
- A contentious point this one, but I find it is better to avoid the first person "I worked on x,y,z", keep it in the third person, or non-specific, and watch your tenses.
- Clients these days look for specifics. They want to know if you have worked on a Semi, a drillship, or a Jack up. They want to know the name of the Unit, whether it is Cyberbase, DP, and what types of systems you worked with. They want to know how long you were there for, and in what role.
- Don't put all your history and equipment at the start and then have a few dates and with what company, a CV should read almost like a history of what you did where.
- Don't repeat big chunks of information, and don't write "same as previous role" in a job description. Look for things that stand out about any position - challenges, equipment, location etc.
- Make it readable. The best format is as follows:
Personal details
Certificates/Education
Job history
dates Job title
company
job description....
repeat etc.
Hope this helps, preaching over.
Slightly oil related conspiracy theory of the year here. I'm sure this happened in a James Bond film...
In more relevant news, Ensco have been profiled in this article, highlighting the problems that they are going to face with these shiny new rigs of theirs. There's a few deepwater rigs already out of contract, but hopefully they'll be able to pick up some work with a decent operator so they can recoup some of their costs - my money is on Petrobras....
True to form, the UK government have decided way too late to give tax breaks for oil exploration in the North Sea. In my humble opinion (from my exalted standpoint of knowing next to nothing about anything) this is FAR too late. If they had dones something a year ago, perhaps the problems in the North Sea would have been a lot less serious. Anyway, the article is here.
Songa are up, Hercules are down. Showing once again that companies that deal with me for their recruitment can only do well out of it.
OK, it might also have something to do with Songa being a small deepwater driller, and Hercules being a much larger driller, having Jack ups and Barges, which are not popular options at the moment.
Jobs wise, pretty much covered for candidates at the moment, but I wanted to post a bit of advice when it comes to writing CVs/resumes for oil and gas:
- Always write a CV in reverse chronological order, most recent position first.
- A contentious point this one, but I find it is better to avoid the first person "I worked on x,y,z", keep it in the third person, or non-specific, and watch your tenses.
- Clients these days look for specifics. They want to know if you have worked on a Semi, a drillship, or a Jack up. They want to know the name of the Unit, whether it is Cyberbase, DP, and what types of systems you worked with. They want to know how long you were there for, and in what role.
- Don't put all your history and equipment at the start and then have a few dates and with what company, a CV should read almost like a history of what you did where.
- Don't repeat big chunks of information, and don't write "same as previous role" in a job description. Look for things that stand out about any position - challenges, equipment, location etc.
- Make it readable. The best format is as follows:
Personal details
Certificates/Education
Job history
dates Job title
company
job description....
repeat etc.
Hope this helps, preaching over.
Monday, 25 January 2010
IT issues resolved
Apologies for no post last week, I.T. stuff happened, so the blog didn't.
Plenty of news though. There's been a big fight in the Antipodes about wages for offshore oil workers. I can't see it specified anywhere exactly what jobs these boys are doing, but they are asking for an increase of about $60k US, so either they are horribly underpaid, or they're greedy as hell. I think maybe the former.
Jack ups are in the news again, this report says what we are all thinking - "why do they keep building Jack ups when they have quite a few stacked already?" I suspect some of these companies will shift them pretty fast to cut their losses. Sustainable growth it aint. They'll probably get utilised eventually, but in the meantime, the guys paying for them, especially smaller cos and new startups, will really struggle.
Close to my heart this one - it's a reasonably interesting (if badly written) article about recruitment scams and what to watch out for. There's a coupla points I would raise on it though...
1) NEVER, EVER pay money for recruitment if you are a candidate. In the UK, it is illegal to request money for the purposes of inding a job. If a UK company asks you for money, report them to the DTI. (Department of Trade and Investment)
2) If you're happy to go to Nigeria, fine. Don't assume it's a fake job just because it's there.
Jobs wise, I need a Norwegian for a shore based H&S position in Stavanger, and I also need Geophysicists with 10 years experience for everywhere (particularly the UK).
Jobs from previous post are still active too.
More later in the week.
Plenty of news though. There's been a big fight in the Antipodes about wages for offshore oil workers. I can't see it specified anywhere exactly what jobs these boys are doing, but they are asking for an increase of about $60k US, so either they are horribly underpaid, or they're greedy as hell. I think maybe the former.
Jack ups are in the news again, this report says what we are all thinking - "why do they keep building Jack ups when they have quite a few stacked already?" I suspect some of these companies will shift them pretty fast to cut their losses. Sustainable growth it aint. They'll probably get utilised eventually, but in the meantime, the guys paying for them, especially smaller cos and new startups, will really struggle.
Close to my heart this one - it's a reasonably interesting (if badly written) article about recruitment scams and what to watch out for. There's a coupla points I would raise on it though...
1) NEVER, EVER pay money for recruitment if you are a candidate. In the UK, it is illegal to request money for the purposes of inding a job. If a UK company asks you for money, report them to the DTI. (Department of Trade and Investment)
2) If you're happy to go to Nigeria, fine. Don't assume it's a fake job just because it's there.
Jobs wise, I need a Norwegian for a shore based H&S position in Stavanger, and I also need Geophysicists with 10 years experience for everywhere (particularly the UK).
Jobs from previous post are still active too.
More later in the week.
Friday, 22 January 2010
Thursday, 14 January 2010
New year
So, it's back to the grindstone. I hope you had a good new year, and I hope that this year is good to you.
Optimism seems to be the general feeling at the moment. Rigzone have been talking about things looking a bit better in terms of increasing rig counts. A few of my clients have taken the next microsteps forward in getting rigs on contract, and the oil price has been up, and down. And up again, and down again, and so on.
There have been a few retrospectives on how terrible 2009 was for the industry; one here, but continuing with the positive theme, Cairn have secured another rig for Greenland, link here, there's a healthy debate about where is best to look for oil here and here.
The Guardian also had an interesting article about how offshore windfarms will need offshore workers, here. In my experience, the crossover in skills is actually pretty easy when it comes to recruitment, but the problem is the companies want people who have already done this before, which in this case no-one has. It'll be interesting to see what happens...
Jobs wise, things are busier than they were, although most roles require something specialist:
- Geophysicist, 10 years +, Edinburgh, UK
- ET, Jack up experience only, Cyberbase too, S.E. Asia
- Process Engineering Lead, Aberdeen, UK.
- Drillers, Toolpushers, Rig Supers, need Offshore Modular workover experience
- Barge Master, Needs to have worked on 8 point mooring Anchor Handling pipelay, no fixed location as of yet.
- Master Mariner, AHTS vessel, Angola
- SDPO for Dive Support Vessel, need Sat-dive experience, Qatar
- ETO, Chief Engineer, 2nd Engineer, DP2 Barge experience, UAE
- Commercial Manager, downhole tools co experience, North Scotland
As usual, if you are interested, please email, or if you know anyone who might be, I'm still doing the Whisky for referrals program!
Optimism seems to be the general feeling at the moment. Rigzone have been talking about things looking a bit better in terms of increasing rig counts. A few of my clients have taken the next microsteps forward in getting rigs on contract, and the oil price has been up, and down. And up again, and down again, and so on.
There have been a few retrospectives on how terrible 2009 was for the industry; one here, but continuing with the positive theme, Cairn have secured another rig for Greenland, link here, there's a healthy debate about where is best to look for oil here and here.
The Guardian also had an interesting article about how offshore windfarms will need offshore workers, here. In my experience, the crossover in skills is actually pretty easy when it comes to recruitment, but the problem is the companies want people who have already done this before, which in this case no-one has. It'll be interesting to see what happens...
Jobs wise, things are busier than they were, although most roles require something specialist:
- Geophysicist, 10 years +, Edinburgh, UK
- ET, Jack up experience only, Cyberbase too, S.E. Asia
- Process Engineering Lead, Aberdeen, UK.
- Drillers, Toolpushers, Rig Supers, need Offshore Modular workover experience
- Barge Master, Needs to have worked on 8 point mooring Anchor Handling pipelay, no fixed location as of yet.
- Master Mariner, AHTS vessel, Angola
- SDPO for Dive Support Vessel, need Sat-dive experience, Qatar
- ETO, Chief Engineer, 2nd Engineer, DP2 Barge experience, UAE
- Commercial Manager, downhole tools co experience, North Scotland
As usual, if you are interested, please email, or if you know anyone who might be, I'm still doing the Whisky for referrals program!
Friday, 18 December 2009
Season's greetings
Merry Christmas and a happy new year. I'll be taking a break from the blog until early Jan when I'll be back on top of things, so this is the last one of 2009.
There's a few companies already ramping up operations into 2010, so hopefully we'll have lots of lovely jobs to fill. As ususal, see the end to see what we have available.
News wise, Brazil aren't wasting any time - they've contracted SBMs FPSO for 18 years, which is good news for the region. Article here
Rigzone have done some good recent articles about 2009, and I liked the floater one from today best.
Not much other news. Jobs wise, I have an IMMEDIATE (as in Sunday) requirement for a subsea Engineer, Junior or Senior, for a drillship going to Equatorial Guinea.
As per my previous post, I need a Geophysicist and an Exploration manager for Edinburgh.
I also need a Process Team Lead for Aberdeen.
And finally, I'm still looking for a driller for the US GOM (deepwater).
That's it, have a great Christmas and new year.
There's a few companies already ramping up operations into 2010, so hopefully we'll have lots of lovely jobs to fill. As ususal, see the end to see what we have available.
News wise, Brazil aren't wasting any time - they've contracted SBMs FPSO for 18 years, which is good news for the region. Article here
Rigzone have done some good recent articles about 2009, and I liked the floater one from today best.
Not much other news. Jobs wise, I have an IMMEDIATE (as in Sunday) requirement for a subsea Engineer, Junior or Senior, for a drillship going to Equatorial Guinea.
As per my previous post, I need a Geophysicist and an Exploration manager for Edinburgh.
I also need a Process Team Lead for Aberdeen.
And finally, I'm still looking for a driller for the US GOM (deepwater).
That's it, have a great Christmas and new year.
Wednesday, 16 December 2009
Quick self-serving post
Hi,
I need to find a Geophysicist and an Exploration Manager for the UK. Ideally UK Nationals, or eligible to work here. It's for an operator in Scotland. Full time, residential position, great package and comrehensive benefits.
Please apply or pass around the good word. Those bottles of single malt for people who give succesful referrals are still available!
Thanks. Proper post later in the week.
I need to find a Geophysicist and an Exploration Manager for the UK. Ideally UK Nationals, or eligible to work here. It's for an operator in Scotland. Full time, residential position, great package and comrehensive benefits.
Please apply or pass around the good word. Those bottles of single malt for people who give succesful referrals are still available!
Thanks. Proper post later in the week.
Thursday, 10 December 2009
Alaska, Gulf and Gossip
Not long now until we all have a wee break over Christmas time (those of us who are lucky enough to be onshore that is). As one of my clients put it, there are plenty of candidates who "like their Turkey at home" so there may be a few short term vacancies coming up. I have one now, see end of the post.
News wise, the really big news is that it looks like drilling is going ahead for Alaska. The interweb has only started really getting stuck into it now (links here and here), but the owners of the drillship, Frontier drilling, were advertising for crew for their drillship some time ago.
Go and apply, but if you get the position, please remember that you got the hint from me, Frontier won't deal with us just now, so please put in a good word.
Anyway, Alaska is obviously a contentious environmental issue, so the usual arguments have all come out. In my opinion, (ill informed as I am) at the end of the day, they are going to drill there eventually, and given the state of the US's finances at the moment, I think they'd be well served to get moving on it. And yes, I know the UK's finances are just as bad, if not worse.
In other news, there's still plenty of oil in the Gulf of Mexico, according to this article.
Gossip wise, it looks like Dolphin are going to have their contract terminated, and for some reason, Sevan are trying to terminate their contract with ONGC. Interesting developments, couldn't possibly speculate as to the reasons for Sevan's actions in particular.
Jobs:
Still looking for a DPO for a Semi in the US.
Subsea Engineer for a Drillship in the US.
Ops manager for Macae.
Master Mariner who can speak Norwegian for Norway
Process Engineer for Aberdeen (need to be chartered and live in UK)
and a 6 week contract for a MAster with unlimited DP licence for a DSV/Construction vessel for Oman.
Any takers? get in touch here
News wise, the really big news is that it looks like drilling is going ahead for Alaska. The interweb has only started really getting stuck into it now (links here and here), but the owners of the drillship, Frontier drilling, were advertising for crew for their drillship some time ago.
Go and apply, but if you get the position, please remember that you got the hint from me, Frontier won't deal with us just now, so please put in a good word.
Anyway, Alaska is obviously a contentious environmental issue, so the usual arguments have all come out. In my opinion, (ill informed as I am) at the end of the day, they are going to drill there eventually, and given the state of the US's finances at the moment, I think they'd be well served to get moving on it. And yes, I know the UK's finances are just as bad, if not worse.
In other news, there's still plenty of oil in the Gulf of Mexico, according to this article.
Gossip wise, it looks like Dolphin are going to have their contract terminated, and for some reason, Sevan are trying to terminate their contract with ONGC. Interesting developments, couldn't possibly speculate as to the reasons for Sevan's actions in particular.
Jobs:
Still looking for a DPO for a Semi in the US.
Subsea Engineer for a Drillship in the US.
Ops manager for Macae.
Master Mariner who can speak Norwegian for Norway
Process Engineer for Aberdeen (need to be chartered and live in UK)
and a 6 week contract for a MAster with unlimited DP licence for a DSV/Construction vessel for Oman.
Any takers? get in touch here
Thursday, 3 December 2009
Iraq, Falklands, USA
here is an interesting article about Iraq's plans to drill 180 wells next year and 250 every following year. I wouldn't be working there myself yet, but hopefully it'll create a few opportunities. They're already Planning the infrastructure as well, I guess the war is over...
Much as I wouldn't want to quote "The Sun" newspaper, they have got an interesting article about plans to exploit the Falkland's resources over the coming years as well. Article
here
Finally, it might be that the economy is too much of an issue for Obama not to drill. I think this article is a bit exaggerated in terms of job creation, but it seems to be the number one issue in the US at the moment.
Jobs wise, I'm still looking for DPOs and Drillers for Semis in the gulf, and I got an interesting Ops maanger role for Brazil, need to have worked with FSOs and Tankers though, not my usual drilling fare.
That's all for now, only 3 more blogs till Christmas.
Much as I wouldn't want to quote "The Sun" newspaper, they have got an interesting article about plans to exploit the Falkland's resources over the coming years as well. Article
here
Finally, it might be that the economy is too much of an issue for Obama not to drill. I think this article is a bit exaggerated in terms of job creation, but it seems to be the number one issue in the US at the moment.
Jobs wise, I'm still looking for DPOs and Drillers for Semis in the gulf, and I got an interesting Ops maanger role for Brazil, need to have worked with FSOs and Tankers though, not my usual drilling fare.
That's all for now, only 3 more blogs till Christmas.
Wednesday, 25 November 2009
Rain, rain, more rain, and some rain
It's definitely raining now.
This week's been a funny one, I think companies are in that jittery phase where they have stuff to do, but don't really want to do so before Christmas (only however many shopping days to go.) Recruitment tends to level out as clients look to the new year, but there's still a few things ticking over.
In the news:
New Zealand seems to be the place to be, the E107 has been scheduled to drill another production well. Link here. Maybe Ensco's fortunes are looking up a bit, as they have had a few rigs stacked for a while.
There's a squabble between Chevron and Woodside about the Atwood Oceanics rig they had agreed to share. Sounds like handbags at dawn, but might end up pretty expensive. Just goes to show there's plenty of demand for these Hight Spec Deepwater rigs at the moment. Link here.
Finally Noble might be feeling the pinch due to their reliance on Pemex. 10 of their 12 contracts are up next year, placing Pemex in a good position to pressure them for a better day rate. Link here.
Jobs wise, I need the following - A DPO and a Driller/Tourpusher for a new build Cyberbase Semi in the GOM. I also need a Master Mariner for a Jack up in Egypt. Pipeling Engineer and Safety Engineer for Abu Dhabi, and I'm still keeping my eyes open for a decent subsea Engineer for Brazil.
Anyone you know, or if you're interested, please email me
This week's been a funny one, I think companies are in that jittery phase where they have stuff to do, but don't really want to do so before Christmas (only however many shopping days to go.) Recruitment tends to level out as clients look to the new year, but there's still a few things ticking over.
In the news:
New Zealand seems to be the place to be, the E107 has been scheduled to drill another production well. Link here. Maybe Ensco's fortunes are looking up a bit, as they have had a few rigs stacked for a while.
There's a squabble between Chevron and Woodside about the Atwood Oceanics rig they had agreed to share. Sounds like handbags at dawn, but might end up pretty expensive. Just goes to show there's plenty of demand for these Hight Spec Deepwater rigs at the moment. Link here.
Finally Noble might be feeling the pinch due to their reliance on Pemex. 10 of their 12 contracts are up next year, placing Pemex in a good position to pressure them for a better day rate. Link here.
Jobs wise, I need the following - A DPO and a Driller/Tourpusher for a new build Cyberbase Semi in the GOM. I also need a Master Mariner for a Jack up in Egypt. Pipeling Engineer and Safety Engineer for Abu Dhabi, and I'm still keeping my eyes open for a decent subsea Engineer for Brazil.
Anyone you know, or if you're interested, please email me
Wednesday, 18 November 2009
back to normal
Was away on holiday last week, in the rain. Lovely.
Seems like things have been steady though, nothing too major on the oil and gas front, just the price dipping down, and slowly resurfacing again. Vacancies are still a bit thin on the ground; lots of plans for next year, but nothing new that's concrete for this year.
In the news:
This interesting article about Vietnamese oil and gas production. It's a little under-utilised at the moment, although there seem to be a few drilling contractors heading that way soon.
I guess one of the main news stories is that Ensco are relocating to the UK. Links are here and Ensco's take is here. I wonder why they have chosen the UK? Taxes are pretty high, and life's pretty expensive, but hopefully this will encourage them to employ a few more people from Europe.
This article shows how desperate the anti-drilling lobby are in the US to prevent offshore drilling. Not only is it ridiculous to invoke the military as a reason not to drill, but I guess this means that the US military would e unable to attack across Ocean that has oil rigs in it. Better not tell Iran this, they'll have the perfect defence. However, they seem to be losing ground, as there will be a big sale next year.
Obama was in SE Asia, and China, promoting goodwill and strengthening Economic and Political ties. He's definitely trying to get access to some of the oil revenues that China are getting, particularly from Myanmar. Interesting article here.
That's all for now. Looking for Drillers for the GOM, Cyberbase Semi experience. A Chief Officer for an AHTS vessel in Angola, and Piping and Safety Engineers for Abudhabi.
Email me at the usual address if you are interested or know anyone who might be.
Seems like things have been steady though, nothing too major on the oil and gas front, just the price dipping down, and slowly resurfacing again. Vacancies are still a bit thin on the ground; lots of plans for next year, but nothing new that's concrete for this year.
In the news:
This interesting article about Vietnamese oil and gas production. It's a little under-utilised at the moment, although there seem to be a few drilling contractors heading that way soon.
I guess one of the main news stories is that Ensco are relocating to the UK. Links are here and Ensco's take is here. I wonder why they have chosen the UK? Taxes are pretty high, and life's pretty expensive, but hopefully this will encourage them to employ a few more people from Europe.
This article shows how desperate the anti-drilling lobby are in the US to prevent offshore drilling. Not only is it ridiculous to invoke the military as a reason not to drill, but I guess this means that the US military would e unable to attack across Ocean that has oil rigs in it. Better not tell Iran this, they'll have the perfect defence. However, they seem to be losing ground, as there will be a big sale next year.
Obama was in SE Asia, and China, promoting goodwill and strengthening Economic and Political ties. He's definitely trying to get access to some of the oil revenues that China are getting, particularly from Myanmar. Interesting article here.
That's all for now. Looking for Drillers for the GOM, Cyberbase Semi experience. A Chief Officer for an AHTS vessel in Angola, and Piping and Safety Engineers for Abudhabi.
Email me at the usual address if you are interested or know anyone who might be.
Friday, 6 November 2009
Short
Apologies, not much posted this week, had what the wife would descrube as "man flu".
Romania has opened up it's oilfields for more exploration, which is good news. Hopefully CROSCO and GSP will be able to secure some of the drilling contracts in the area, as things don't seem too busy for them at the moment.
Libya and BP are getting on liek a house on fire, and it looks like there'll be plenty of work there from next year, which is good news as well.
Back to normal next week (honest).
I'm looking for an HR manager for a drilling contractor in Houston if anyone is looking, and other roles will remain the same.
Romania has opened up it's oilfields for more exploration, which is good news. Hopefully CROSCO and GSP will be able to secure some of the drilling contracts in the area, as things don't seem too busy for them at the moment.
Libya and BP are getting on liek a house on fire, and it looks like there'll be plenty of work there from next year, which is good news as well.
Back to normal next week (honest).
I'm looking for an HR manager for a drilling contractor in Houston if anyone is looking, and other roles will remain the same.
Thursday, 29 October 2009
Jack-ups
One of the guys I have dealt with in the past has been writing a very interesting blog that I'll put a link to on the left as well. He's more of a Marine guy, rather than oil and gas, but worth a look all the same.
News wise, Ecuador has come up with a different approach to drilling for oil... Not drilling for oil This may be the way forward, although I have to wonder if in 5 or even 10 years time, a different president might just do it anyway.
Scorpion, a relatively unknown drilling contractor, have won a short term contract in Trinidad - maybe a sign of more work in the Jack up market? Not according to Rigzone.
The Jack up contractor who seem to be struggling the most are Hercules. They have a lot of stacked rigs, and seem to be unable to find much work at the moment. With luck things will look up, but they can't be too happy with their $48.3m loss in one quarter.
Jobs wise, still looking for:
Indian Drilling staff for new build Drillship in India.
SE Asian Mechanics and Materialsment for SE Asia.
American Engineers for a Semi in GOM.
BD Managers and Ops Managers for Asia Pac and Algeria (must speak French for Algeria, Asia experience essential for Asia Pac)
Interested? email me
News wise, Ecuador has come up with a different approach to drilling for oil... Not drilling for oil This may be the way forward, although I have to wonder if in 5 or even 10 years time, a different president might just do it anyway.
Scorpion, a relatively unknown drilling contractor, have won a short term contract in Trinidad - maybe a sign of more work in the Jack up market? Not according to Rigzone.
The Jack up contractor who seem to be struggling the most are Hercules. They have a lot of stacked rigs, and seem to be unable to find much work at the moment. With luck things will look up, but they can't be too happy with their $48.3m loss in one quarter.
Jobs wise, still looking for:
Indian Drilling staff for new build Drillship in India.
SE Asian Mechanics and Materialsment for SE Asia.
American Engineers for a Semi in GOM.
BD Managers and Ops Managers for Asia Pac and Algeria (must speak French for Algeria, Asia experience essential for Asia Pac)
Interested? email me
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