Petroleum Engineer

Job Title

This position is located within the Department of the Interior, Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE), Gulf of America Region (GOAR), Office Production & Development, Well Analysis Section, Jefferson, LA. At the full performance level (GS-13) the major duties of this position include, but are not limited to the following:

1. Analyzes and resolves unusual and more complex petroleum engineering problems associated with reservoir analysis methods, recovery methods, and economics of petroleum production and gas processing. Leads investigations or assists as a SME, the review and analysis of oil and gas wells, casing programs, and well integrity for the conservation of resources and safety in the drilling of wells.
2. Analyzes the results of well logging, geological and geophysical work, and related laboratory data to ensure maximum reliability in the determination of a well bore's future production capability. Analyzes and evaluates related requests from other offices, agencies, or industry.
3. Conducts reservoir analyses to determine additional recoverable oil and gas reserve estimates in support of operator requests to extend the life of idle wells via sidetracking and/or well deepening. Reviews requests from operators that certain wells be exempt from "Idle Iron" requirements as outlined in regulations and NTLs. Reviews current operator production management methods and its impact on ultimate recovery.
4. Conducts reservoir simulation by reviewing the validity of operator submitted data and analyses; preparing an independent analysis of geological and engineering attributes that are expected to be encountered in the proposed well bore using selected analogs; and generating nodal analysis curves for determining the deliverability of oil and gas wells under different produced fluid and reservoir compositions and well casing arrangements. Prepares findings and recommendations, to approve or deny the operator request.
5. Provides technical assistance to less experienced engineers. Collaborates with scientists and other technical and management personnel to solve unique problems associated with the characteristics of specific reservoirs. Prepares draft correspondence to approve or disapprove operator requests

BSEE has determined that the duties of this position are suitable for telework and the selectee may be allowed to telework with supervisor approval. Salary Information GS-12; step 1 $103,225 to Step 10: $134,195 per annum. First time hires to the Federal government normally start at the lower salary range of the grade level. This vacancy may be used to fill additional positions as vacancies become available.