Building a Career in Deepwater Operations: Roles and Skills to Thrive

The increased interest in deep-water oil and gas extraction can improve deep-water technologies and methods, push discussions for environmental regulations in deep water, and complement shallow-water development.

Shell in Malaysia has been one of the companies exploring the technically challenging depths of deepwater operations. Discover how you can become a part of Shell Malaysia’s growing team.

Why choose a career in deepwater operations

A career in deepwater operations offers a dynamic and fulfilling path in the oil and gas industry. Here are some reasons to consider this sector:

• Innovative field: As deepwater operations and topsides continue to innovate and evolve, you will be exposed to new practices, technologies, and equipment.
• Growth opportunities: Joining a developing sector means endless opportunities and access to the latest field-specific training, certifications, and resources to improve your technical expertise.
• Role in global energy solutions: Your contributions to deepwater operations today can impact the future of energy.

Deepwater career paths at Shell

Explore the following opportunities in deepwater operations and topsides and see which career path suits you.

Production operators

Production operators oversee daily operations on an oil rig, conduct maintenance checks on machinery, train and guide junior operators, troubleshoot production issues, and work with other operators and staff to resolve problems. Ultimately, their role ensures that processes are safe and efficient.

This position requires understanding and experience in oil and gas production, systems, and safety procedures. The role also demands problem-solving skills and the ability to work in a physically demanding environment.

Oil rig technicians

Offshore oil rig technicians primarily work with complex mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical systems. They regularly inspect the equipment, conduct preventive maintenance, implement safety protocols, and collaborate with other personnel, such as a design engineer.

Overall, their role ensures that all equipment needed for deepwater drilling operates smoothly and safely for daily operations.

Qualifications for the role may include a background in mechanical or electrical engineering, technical certifications in areas like hydraulics and underwater systems, and comprehensive safety training.

Marine and subsea engineers

Marine and subsea engineers specialise in underwater technology and play a crucial role in designing, installing, operating, troubleshooting, and maintaining subsea systems. These systems include pipelines, oil rigs, and wells.

This role requires a solid background in engineering with a thorough understanding of subsea technologies and systems. The position also demands a strong ability to analyse and resolve complex situations, collaborate with other professionals and teams, and adapt to unexpected conditions and challenges.

Safety supervisors

Offshore safety supervisors ensure that all operations and professionals comply with health and safety regulations. There is high demand for this role given the harsh environment and safety risks of deepwater operations.

Their responsibilities include monitoring work practices, conducting regular risk assessments, responding to emergencies, and training staff in safety procedures. The role demands certification in safety procedures and experience in safety leadership and management.

Project managers

Project managers are vital in deepwater operations, overseeing projects from concept to completion.

Some of their responsibilities may include delivering projects on time and within budget, ensuring HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) and production efficiency, managing cross-functional teams, reporting to decision-makers, and liaising with numerous key engineering firms, contractors, suppliers, and service providers.

They may also spearhead partnerships, such as signing deepwater asset operations contracts with local operators, to improve the country’s energy industry.

Given their crucial role and responsibilities, project managers must possess strong leadership skills, solid management experience, and a broad understanding of deepwater operations and the oil and gas industry.

Note: These are just a few examples of the deepwater roles available at Shell. To explore more career opportunities in this area, visit Shell’s Deepwater careers page

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Essential skills for deepwater gas industry jobs

Check out the deepwater operation skills you must possess to join the industry and succeed in deepwater operations and the offshore industry.

Technical expertise

Roles in deepwater operations are technically demanding, from developing deep-water technologies to operating complex containment systems. You must have solid engineering experience and background and the ability to apply technical concepts to actual drilling challenges.

Shell Malaysia offers growth opportunities, such as formal training, to improve your technical skills and overall contribution to deepwater operations.

Problem-solving

The unpredictable environment of deepwater operations presents various technical and operational challenges. As a result, you must possess critical thinking and problem-solving skills to assess situations quickly and make informed decisions to resolve real-life issues.

Teamwork

Depending on your role, you may collaborate with numerous key engineering firms, contractors, suppliers, and decision-makers. Having good communication and interpersonal skills is essential for ensuring HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) and production efficiency.

To establish teamwork in deepwater operations, Shell encourages cross-functional collaboration and mentorship among professionals.

Adaptability

As deepwater operations continue to evolve, it is essential to remain open to learning new technologies and methods, such as synthetic-based mud systems. Additionally, one must be adept at overcoming various drilling challenges and unpredictable work environments. Shell leverages these challenges to develop solutions pertinent to deepwater operations.

Shell uses these challenges to develop solutions relevant to deepwater operations.

Benefits of availing job opportunities at Shell

Shell offers professionals various opportunities to grow and advance in the deepwater operations sector.

Grow your skills

Shell provides industry-leading programmes and training, enabling you to expand your knowledge and experience in offshore drilling, deepwater operations, and topside platforms, among others.

Additionally, explore your potential by working on groundbreaking projects and sites around the country and performing in a dynamic environment.

Collaborate with experienced colleagues

Shell practises a flat hierarchy to encourage professionals of different levels and expertise to collaborate. Gain experience working with diverse talents and receiving mentorship as you tackle challenges and develop solutions relevant to deepwater operations.

Achieve your balance in a values-led culture

Shell prioritises people by nurturing an environment centred on honesty, integrity, and respect. Work with a diverse team that empowers you to speak up and inspires you to make the right decisions.

Develop the energy solutions of tomorrow and today

Be part of a team that contributes to tackling real-life issues related to energy and developing game-changing technologies for a better tomorrow. Explore how you can help in developing energy solutions of tomorrow and today.

How to join Shell Malaysia

It only takes a few steps to start your journey with Shell.

1. Apply online

The application process for Malaysian professionals and job seekers starts by browsing Shell Malaysia’s vacancies and submitting an application online.

Meanwhile, graduates may apply through the Shell Graduate Programme to kickstart their journey with Shell.

2. Undergo the Virtual Job Try-out and on-demand interview

Complete simulations to demonstrate your skills, work approach, and character, and see if you fit into the role or the programme. Next, go through a 40-minute on-demand interview.

3. Take the final assessment

Prepare and work on a case study with two Shell employees and complete a virtual interview with them.

4. Receive an offer

If successful, you’ll receive an offer for the position or the programme you applied for.

Note: Log in or register to Shell’s website to manage your application

Conclusion

Join Shell Malaysia’s dynamic team in deepwater operations and power your progress. Explore current opportunities on our Shell Malaysia Careers page and take the next step in your professional journey.