Wellhead

Term from Oil Extraction industry explained for recruiters

A wellhead is a crucial piece of equipment at oil and gas extraction sites. It sits at the surface of an oil or gas well and controls the production of these resources. Think of it like a sophisticated valve system that manages the flow of oil and gas, ensures safety, and connects the underground well to the surface equipment. When people mention wellhead experience in their resumes, they're typically referring to their work with installing, maintaining, or operating these systems. This equipment is essential in both onshore (land-based) and offshore (sea-based) drilling operations.

Examples in Resumes

Supervised installation and maintenance of Wellhead equipment on 15+ offshore platforms

Conducted daily Wellhead pressure monitoring and safety inspections

Led team of technicians in Wellhead assembly and troubleshooting operations

Managed Wellhead integrity testing program across multiple drilling sites

Typical job title: "Wellhead Technicians"

Also try searching for:

Wellhead Operator Wellhead Engineer Surface Wellhead Technician Wellhead Specialist Well Service Technician Completion Technician Field Service Technician

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a high-pressure situation with a malfunctioning wellhead?

Expected Answer: A senior professional should explain emergency response procedures, safety protocols, and demonstrate leadership in crisis situations. They should mention pressure control methods, shutdown procedures, and team coordination.

Q: Describe your experience with wellhead maintenance programs.

Expected Answer: Should discuss developing maintenance schedules, implementing preventive maintenance strategies, managing teams, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What safety procedures do you follow when working with wellhead equipment?

Expected Answer: Should describe basic safety protocols, pressure testing procedures, personal protective equipment requirements, and common safety challenges.

Q: Explain the process of installing a basic wellhead system.

Expected Answer: Should be able to outline the main steps of wellhead installation, including equipment preparation, pressure testing, and basic troubleshooting.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the main components of a wellhead?

Expected Answer: Should be able to identify basic parts like casing head, tubing head, and various valves, explaining their basic functions in simple terms.

Q: What basic maintenance tasks are performed on wellheads?

Expected Answer: Should describe routine tasks like visual inspections, basic pressure monitoring, and reporting procedures for common issues.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic wellhead component knowledge
  • Safety procedures and regulations
  • Basic maintenance and inspection
  • Equipment cleaning and preparation

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Wellhead installation and removal
  • Pressure testing and monitoring
  • Troubleshooting common issues
  • Emergency response procedures

Senior (5+ years)

  • Complex wellhead system management
  • Team supervision and training
  • Maintenance program development
  • Risk assessment and safety planning

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No hands-on experience with wellhead equipment
  • Lack of safety certification or training
  • No knowledge of pressure control systems
  • Unable to explain basic maintenance procedures