Workover
A workover is a maintenance or repair operation performed on an oil or gas well to restore, prolong, or enhance its production. Think of it like giving a car a major service - but for oil wells. When wells stop producing as much as they should, or have mechanical problems, workover crews come in with special equipment to fix these issues. This might involve replacing worn-out parts, cleaning out debris, or making adjustments to help the well produce better. It's a critical maintenance process in the oil and gas industry that helps keep wells productive and safe.
Examples in Resumes
Supervised workover operations on 20+ oil wells, improving production rates by 30%
Led workover rig crews in completing well maintenance and repair projects
Managed emergency workover interventions to restore production in failing wells
Typical job title: "Workover Operators"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Workover Operators
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Industry Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a complex workover operation where initial attempts to restore well production have failed?
Expected Answer: A senior professional should discuss assessment methods, alternative intervention strategies, risk management, and how to coordinate with different teams while maintaining safety standards.
Q: Describe your experience managing workover budgets and scheduling operations.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of cost control, resource allocation, planning procedures, and how to balance emergency interventions with scheduled maintenance.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What safety procedures do you follow during workover operations?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic safety protocols, equipment checks, hazard identification, and emergency response procedures specific to workover operations.
Q: How do you determine if a workover operation has been successful?
Expected Answer: Should discuss production monitoring, pressure testing, flow rates, and other key indicators that show whether the intervention achieved its goals.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic types of workover operations?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe common maintenance tasks like cleaning, parts replacement, and basic troubleshooting procedures.
Q: What basic equipment is used in workover operations?
Expected Answer: Should identify main components like workover rigs, basic tools, and safety equipment used in routine operations.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of workover operations
- Knowledge of safety procedures
- Ability to assist in routine maintenance tasks
- Basic equipment operation
Mid (2-5 years)
- Independent operation of workover equipment
- Problem diagnosis and troubleshooting
- Emergency response handling
- Team coordination
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex operation management
- Budget and resource planning
- Team supervision and training
- Advanced problem-solving
Red Flags to Watch For
- Lack of safety certification or awareness
- No hands-on experience with workover equipment
- Poor understanding of basic well operations
- Limited knowledge of industry safety standards
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