Perforation

Term from Oil Extraction industry explained for recruiters

Perforation is a crucial process in oil and gas extraction where small holes are created in the well casing and cement to connect the well to the oil or gas reservoir in the rock formation. Think of it like punching drinking straw holes into a juice box - it creates pathways for the oil and gas to flow into the well. This is typically done using special tools called perforating guns that create these holes using small explosive charges. Without perforation, even if you drill a well, the oil won't have a way to flow into it efficiently.

Examples in Resumes

Supervised Perforation operations for 15+ oil wells in the Gulf region

Optimized Perforation designs resulting in 30% increased well productivity

Managed Perforating operations and coordinated with wireline crews

Typical job title: "Perforation Engineers"

Also try searching for:

Well Completion Engineer Perforation Specialist Wireline Engineer Completion Operations Engineer Well Services Engineer Field Engineer

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you determine the optimal perforation strategy for a new well?

Expected Answer: A strong answer should discuss analyzing well data, formation characteristics, and production goals. They should mention considering factors like pressure, rock properties, and safety requirements, plus experience with different perforation techniques.

Q: Tell me about a challenging perforation operation you managed and how you handled it.

Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate leadership, problem-solving, and safety awareness. They should explain how they coordinated with different teams and handled unexpected issues while maintaining safety standards.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What safety procedures do you follow during perforation operations?

Expected Answer: Should discuss standard safety protocols, equipment checks, communication procedures, and emergency response plans. They should show understanding of both personnel and well safety considerations.

Q: How do you ensure the quality of perforation jobs?

Expected Answer: Should mention monitoring techniques, quality checks, pressure testing, and verification methods. They should understand the importance of proper documentation and reporting.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic components of a perforating system?

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe the basic parts like perforating guns, charges, and firing systems in simple terms, showing fundamental understanding of the equipment.

Q: What documentation is typically required for perforation operations?

Expected Answer: Should mention basic paperwork like job tickets, safety permits, equipment checklists, and post-job reports, showing awareness of operational procedures.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of perforation equipment
  • Knowledge of safety procedures
  • Ability to follow standard operating procedures
  • Basic well completion knowledge

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Perforation design and planning
  • Operation supervision
  • Problem-solving during operations
  • Team coordination

Senior (5+ years)

  • Advanced perforation technique optimization
  • Project management
  • Risk assessment and mitigation
  • Training and mentoring junior staff

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Lack of basic safety knowledge
  • No field experience with perforation operations
  • Unable to explain basic well completion concepts
  • Poor understanding of pressure control
  • No experience with relevant equipment and tools