The UK’s oil and gas sector, particularly in the North Sea, has been a cornerstone of the national economy for decades. As the industry evolves with new technologies and sustainability goals, there are increasing opportunities for professionals to make a significant impact. For those considering a career in the UK, the oil and gas sector offers not only competitive wages but also the added benefit of visa sponsorship, making it an attractive option for global talent.
This guide outlines the job market in the UK’s oil and gas industry for 2024 and 2025. We will explore key companies offering visa sponsorship, in-demand roles, expected salary ranges, and the application process to help you chart your career path in the sector.
Leading Companies Hiring Talent with Visa Sponsorship
Several major players in the UK’s oil and gas sector are actively recruiting international talent and providing visa sponsorship. Some of the top companies include:
- BP (British Petroleum): BP is a global leader focused on sustainability and energy transition. It frequently hires engineers, IT professionals, and environmental scientists, with visa sponsorship available for eligible roles.
- Shell: Shell operates across the entire energy value chain. As the company shifts towards renewable energy, it offers visa sponsorship for technical roles and positions in various sectors.
- Chevron: With significant operations in the North Sea, Chevron is committed to safety and career development, offering visa sponsorship for specialized roles.
- TotalEnergies: A key player in both oil and renewable energy, TotalEnergies regularly offers roles in engineering, project management, and environmental sciences with visa sponsorship.
- Equinor: This Norwegian energy company, focused on offshore oil, gas, and wind power, offers visa sponsorship for roles in engineering and environmental science.
High-Demand Roles in the Oil and Gas Sector
As the industry transforms, many roles are in high demand. Some of the most sought-after positions include:
- Petroleum Engineers: Responsible for extracting oil and gas, petroleum engineers typically earn between £50,000 and £100,000 annually, with higher salaries for senior or specialized roles.
- Geologists and Geophysicists: These experts analyze underground data to locate oil and gas deposits, earning between £45,000 and £90,000 annually.
- Drilling Supervisors: Overseeing drilling operations, drilling supervisors earn between £60,000 and £120,000 per year, with offshore roles offering additional allowances.
- HSE Officers: Health, safety, and environment officers ensure compliance with safety regulations, with salaries ranging from £40,000 to £80,000.
- Project Managers: Project managers in the oil and gas sector oversee large projects, earning between £50,000 and £110,000 annually, with bonuses for larger projects.
Expected Salary Packages
The UK’s oil and gas sector offers attractive salaries. Here are typical salary ranges for some key roles:
- Petroleum Engineers: £50,000 – £100,000 per year
- Geologists and Geophysicists: £45,000 – £90,000 per year
- Drilling Supervisors: £60,000 – £120,000 per year
- HSE Officers: £40,000 – £80,000 per year
- Project Managers: £50,000 – £110,000 per year
In addition to base salaries, many companies offer bonuses, healthcare, and retirement plans, making the sector a lucrative option for professionals.
Visa Sponsorship: What You Need to Know
The availability of visa sponsorship is a major attraction for international professionals. Key points to understand include:
- Types of Visas: The Skilled Worker Visa is the most common for international workers, allowing companies to sponsor foreign professionals. The salary offered must meet a specific threshold. Other visa options include the Intra-Company Transfer Visa and the Global Talent Visa.
- Securing Visa Sponsorship: To secure sponsorship, you must have a job offer from a licensed employer. The employer will issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), which is essential for applying for a visa.
- Application Process: The visa application is completed online, with processing times typically around three weeks for applications from outside the UK. It is important to apply early to avoid delays.
Why Choose the UK for Your Career in Oil and Gas?
The UK’s oil and gas sector offers a dynamic work environment, with opportunities for growth in both traditional oil and gas roles and newer energy technologies. The country’s emphasis on sustainability and the shift to renewable energy presents unique career prospects for those eager to contribute to the energy transition.
Visa sponsorship options make the UK an accessible destination for qualified professionals from around the world, with many companies providing relocation assistance, housing support, and other services to help with the transition.
Conclusion
The UK’s oil and gas sector remains a key player in the global energy market, offering exciting career opportunities for skilled professionals. With high salaries, a broad range of roles, and the added benefit of visa sponsorship, now is a great time to explore job opportunities in this evolving industry.