Preliminary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and analysis by the Energy Workforce & Technology Council (EWTC) shows a slight decrease—about 3,260 jobs—in oilfield services (OFS) sector employment. The data is based on BLS’ April jobs report, released on May 3.
However, EWTC, a national trade association for the global energy technology and services sector, said the OFS job market may still have potential for growth.
In April, the OFS sector reported 651,424 jobs, a slight decrease from March’s adjusted jobs report of 654,688.
The U.S. job market reported minimal gains at the national scale, with only 175,000 jobs added, according to BLS. The national unemployment rate ticked up from 3.8% to 3.9%.
“With market dynamics continually evolving, EWTC remains dedicated to fostering innovation and resilience within the energy services sector,” said EWTC President Molly Determan. “While our latest report aligns our sector with national employment trends, we see an opportunity to redouble our efforts to advance technology, upskill our workforce and drive sustainable growth.”
Recommended Reading
Deepwater Roundup 2024: Offshore Africa
2024-04-02 - Offshore Africa, new projects are progressing, with a number of high-reserve offshore developments being planned in countries not typically known for deepwater activity, such as Phase 2 of the Baleine project on the Ivory Coast.
Third Suriname Find for Petronas, Exxon Could Support 100,000 bbl/d FPSO
2024-05-17 - A recent find offshore Suriname in Block 52 by Petronas and Exxon Mobil could support a 100,000 bbl/d FPSO development, according to Wood Mackenzie.
Trio Petroleum to Increase Monterey County Oil Production
2024-04-15 - Trio Petroleum’s HH-1 well in McCool Ranch and the HV-3A well in the Presidents Field collectively produce about 75 bbl/d.
Kosmos Energy’s RBL Increased, Maturity Date Extended
2024-04-29 - Kosmos Energy’s reserve-based lending facility’s size has been increased by about 8% to $1.35 billion from $1.25 billion, with current commitments of approximately $1.2 billion.
Exxon Mobil Green-lights $12.7B Whiptail Project Offshore Guyana
2024-04-12 - Exxon Mobil’s sixth development in the Stabroek Block will add 250,000 bbl/d capacity when it starts production in 2027.