• analysing geological data
• interpreting well-logging results (records of the geological formations penetrated by boreholes) to ascertain resource potential
• ascertaining extraction risks, such as the area’s potential for earthquakes
• planning and supervising extraction sites
• selecting and maintaining equipment
• monitoring and evaluating reservoir performance
• preparing reports and maps
• developing oilfield production programmes
• liaising with and advising managerial and technical staff
• using specialist computer applications and mathematical models to maximise production.