Well Testing

Term from Gas Extraction industry explained for recruiters

Well Testing is a crucial process in the oil and gas industry where specialists check how well an oil or gas well performs. Think of it like a health check-up for wells - they measure how much oil or gas can flow, what pressure levels are present, and what kind of fluids are coming from the well. This information helps companies decide if a well will be profitable and how best to operate it. The process usually involves special equipment and careful monitoring over a period of time, which could be days or weeks. It's a key step both when exploring new wells and maintaining existing ones.

Examples in Resumes

Supervised Well Testing operations for 15 offshore drilling projects

Conducted Well Test analysis using modern testing equipment

Led team of 5 technicians in Well Testing and evaluation procedures

Performed pressure analysis during Well Testing operations

Typical job title: "Well Test Engineers"

Also try searching for:

Well Test Engineer Formation Testing Engineer Production Test Engineer Drill Stem Test Engineer Well Operations Engineer Petroleum Engineer Test Engineer

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a well test that shows unexpected pressure readings?

Expected Answer: Should explain their problem-solving approach, safety protocols, and decision-making process, including when to stop testing and how to communicate with stakeholders.

Q: Describe a challenging well testing project you managed and how you ensured its success.

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership skills, project management abilities, and how they handle complex technical situations while maintaining safety standards.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What safety procedures do you follow during well testing?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic safety protocols, emergency procedures, and equipment checks required before and during testing.

Q: How do you determine the duration needed for a well test?

Expected Answer: Should explain factors that influence test duration, such as well type, required data, and company objectives.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What basic equipment is used in well testing?

Expected Answer: Should be able to name and describe common testing equipment and their basic functions in simple terms.

Q: What information do you collect during a basic well test?

Expected Answer: Should mention basic measurements like pressure, flow rates, and fluid samples, showing understanding of fundamental testing objectives.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of well testing equipment
  • Ability to collect and record test data
  • Knowledge of safety procedures
  • Basic computer skills for data entry

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Independent operation of testing equipment
  • Analysis of test results
  • Emergency response procedures
  • Supervision of junior technicians

Senior (5+ years)

  • Project management of well testing operations
  • Advanced problem-solving in complex scenarios
  • Team leadership and training
  • Client relationship management

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Lack of safety certification or awareness
  • No hands-on experience with testing equipment
  • Poor understanding of basic well operations
  • Inability to explain testing procedures clearly
  • No experience with pressure monitoring systems