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How to Become a Reservoir Engineer: Australian Careers in Engineering

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What is a Reservoir Engineer?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

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What is a Reservoir Engineer?

A reservoir engineer assesses, models, and optimises the recovery of oil and gas from underground formations. They use geology, fluid mechanics, and simulation software to determine how much a reservoir can produce. They then plan how to extract those resources safely and efficiently. Most roles in Australia are based in Western Australia and Queensland. These two states host the nation’s largest oil and gas fields.

Day-to-day, reservoir engineers build and refine computer models of underground reservoirs. They analyse well and production data to track performance and spot problems early. They work closely with geologists, drilling engineers, and production teams. Their recommendations shape drilling programs and field development plans.

Around 2,400 petroleum engineers are employed across Australia (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). Ninety per cent work full-time, and the median age is 39. Future demand is rated Strong, supported by ongoing LNG production and the need to manage mature fields efficiently.

The average salary is around $155,000 per year, and senior engineers often earn over $200,000 (PayScale, 2025). Entry requires a four-year Bachelor of Engineering (Petroleum Engineering) or equivalent, accredited by Engineers Australia.

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Career snapshots For Reservoir Engineers

Reservoir engineers plan and direct the assessment, modelling, and optimisation of underground oil and gas reservoirs. Around 2,400 petroleum engineers work in Australia (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). Western Australia accounts for 61% of roles, and Queensland for 21%. The median age is 39, 90% work full-time, and 18% are women. Future demand is rated Strong, driven by ongoing LNG production, mature field management, and carbon capture activity. Average salaries sit around $155,000 per year, with senior engineers earning over $200,000 (PayScale, 2025). Entry requires a four-year Bachelor of Engineering (Petroleum Engineering), accredited by Engineers Australia.

What will I do?

Reservoir engineers assess, model, and optimise the extraction of oil and gas from underground formations. They work across the full field development lifecycle, from early appraisal through to production optimisation and late-life management. Their work shapes drilling decisions, investment planning, and operational strategy.

  • Assess reservoir size and capacity to determine production potential
  • Build and maintain computer models to simulate reservoir behaviour over time
  • Analyse well and production data to track reservoir performance
  • Work with geologists to interpret geological and seismic data
  • Design and assess enhanced oil and gas recovery programmes
  • Prepare production forecasts and field development plans
  • Conduct economic evaluations to assess project feasibility
  • Write technical reports and present findings to management and project teams
  • Monitor compliance with safety and environmental regulations
  • Support drilling and completion teams with reservoir data and recommendations

What skills do I need?

Reservoir engineers need strong technical skills in geology, fluid mechanics, and reservoir physics. These subjects form the foundation of the analytical work they perform every day. Proficiency in reservoir simulation software is a core requirement. Tools such as Petrel, Eclipse, and CMG are widely used across the Australian industry.

Analytical skills and attention to detail are essential. Reservoir engineers work with large, complex datasets and build models that inform major investment decisions. Interpreting data, spotting trends, and drawing sound conclusions under uncertainty are key skills. These set a strong engineer apart from a capable one.

Clear communication is just as important as technical skill. Reservoir engineers present findings to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. They write detailed reports and work closely with geologists, drilling teams, and production staff. The ability to translate complex data into clear recommendations is highly valued by employers.

Skills/attributes

  • Knowledge of geology, petrophysics, and fluid mechanics
  • Proficiency in reservoir simulation software (Petrel, Eclipse, CMG)
  • Strong data analysis and interpretation skills
  • Ability to build and update reservoir models
  • Economic evaluation and financial modelling
  • Technical report writing and stakeholder communication
  • Collaboration with geologists, drilling, and production teams
  • Problem-solving and critical thinking under data uncertainty
  • Project management and meeting deadlines
  • Attention to detail and accuracy in data handling
  • Adaptability to new technologies and digital workflows
  • Understanding of safety and environmental regulations
  • Strong mathematical and quantitative reasoning
  • Well-site data collection and fieldwork skills

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About the author

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.