davev1977

Thanks for the advice. I have joined LinkedIn.com and it looks like a useful tool. I've heard people say things similar to what you said, but only in regards to a few specific companies. The industry as a whole appears to be in good health. I'm in the coal industry and we have our ups and downs, too. What I'm hoping for is a good chance at a higher standard of living. For example, the town we live in is small. There isn't a great deal to do around here other than hunting/fishing/etc., which is fine, but I miss the variety of a bigger city (I grew up around Seattle). I also think the oil companies, being larger than our coal companies, offer a greater opportunity for upward mobility and a career that could expand my skill set and ultimately prove more satisfying. I don't know if this is true or not, I've never worked in such a big corporate environment. We really need to visit the Houston area and get a feel for the place. See what it would be like to live there, I suppose. What percentage would you say works contract? And is it more common for certain companies or certain types of companies?

Hi, my wife and I live in Kentucky currently. I work as a geologist for a coal company, she's an elementary school special education teacher. I'm 31 years old, she's 27. We're thinking about moving to Houston where I'd like to work as a geologist/geophysicist for an oil company. I understand the opportunities are exceptional right now and I've been interested in that type of work since I was in school a couple of years ago. I'm hoping to hear from people who work in the petroleum industry, especially from geoscientists, who can give me some tips for landing a job and finding a good place to live. We'd be interested in a good child-friendly suburb like Sugar Land where the schools have good reputations and the commute is manageable (a relative proposition, I know). Is anyone out there who can offer some advice? I've done plenty of research on the major oil company websites but some insider information would be much appreciated! What is life like for those of you on the "inside"?? Also, can anyone suggest which companies are the most/least desirable to work for and why? Thanks!!