Fracking

Term from Oil Extraction industry explained for recruiters

Fracking, also known as hydraulic fracturing, is a method used by oil and gas companies to extract more resources from deep underground. Think of it like creating tiny cracks in rock layers deep below the earth to release trapped oil and natural gas. Companies use this technique because it helps them access deposits that weren't reachable with traditional drilling methods. It's become a standard practice in the oil and gas industry over the past few decades, especially in areas like Texas, North Dakota, and Pennsylvania. When you see this term in resumes, it usually indicates experience with either the technical aspects of the extraction process or working at sites where this method is used.

Examples in Resumes

Supervised Fracking operations at 15 well sites in the Permian Basin

Managed safety protocols for Hydraulic Fracturing projects across multiple locations

Led a team of 20 technicians in Fracking operations, improving efficiency by 25%

Typical job title: "Fracking Engineers"

Also try searching for:

Petroleum Engineer Hydraulic Fracturing Specialist Well Stimulation Engineer Completion Engineer Field Operations Engineer Fracking Operations Supervisor Oil and Gas Engineer

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you manage a fracking operation that's experiencing unexpected pressure issues?

Expected Answer: A senior professional should discuss safety protocols, troubleshooting steps, team coordination, and decision-making processes. They should emphasize safety and efficiency while explaining how to adjust operations based on real-time data.

Q: What strategies have you implemented to improve fracking efficiency while maintaining safety standards?

Expected Answer: Should discuss experience with optimizing processes, implementing new technologies, managing teams, and balancing productivity with safety requirements. Should mention specific examples from past projects.

Mid Level Questions

Q: Can you explain the main safety considerations in a fracking operation?

Expected Answer: Should be able to discuss key safety protocols, equipment checks, environmental monitoring, and emergency procedures. Should demonstrate understanding of both worker and environmental safety measures.

Q: What monitoring systems do you use during fracking operations?

Expected Answer: Should be familiar with pressure monitoring, fluid analysis, and data collection systems. Should explain how this information is used to make operational decisions.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic components of a fracking operation?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the basic process: well preparation, fluid mixing, pumping operations, and monitoring. Should show understanding of the equipment and teams involved.

Q: What safety gear is required on a fracking site?

Expected Answer: Should know personal protective equipment requirements, basic safety protocols, and emergency procedures for common situations.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of fracking operations
  • Knowledge of safety procedures
  • Equipment monitoring
  • Basic data collection and reporting

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Operation supervision
  • Problem-solving during operations
  • Team coordination
  • Safety protocol implementation

Senior (5+ years)

  • Project management
  • Operation optimization
  • Risk assessment and management
  • Team leadership and training

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of basic safety protocols
  • Lack of field experience
  • No understanding of environmental regulations
  • Poor communication skills or team experience