Engineers, geoscientists, and technical professionals in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector face a specific frustration that rarely gets discussed openly. The upstream oil and gas industry is one of the highest-paying employment sectors in the country, yet finding verified, current opportunities at the companies that actually matter requires insider knowledge that most job seekers simply do not have. You see news about NNPC expansions, Shell field developments, and TotalEnergies deepwater projects, but the actual job openings seem invisible unless you know exactly where to look and how to apply.

This post changes that. We have compiled verified current upstream oil and gas jobs at leading companies actively recruiting right now, with full job details, realistic salary ranges, and direct links to official application pages. Whether you are a fresh engineering graduate targeting your first upstream role or an experienced petroleum engineer ready for your next career move, the information you need is here.

What Upstream Oil and Gas Actually Means and Why It Matters for Your Career

The upstream oil and gas industry refers to everything that happens before crude oil or natural gas reaches a refinery or processing plant. This includes exploration, which involves searching for hydrocarbon deposits using seismic surveys and geological analysis. It includes drilling, which is the physical process of penetrating the earth to reach oil and gas reservoirs. And it includes production, which covers everything from well completion through to the ongoing management of producing fields over their operational lifetime.

Upstream operations are where Nigeria’s energy wealth is created. The Niger Delta onshore fields, the shallow water assets of the continental shelf, and the deepwater prospects off Nigeria’s coast collectively make the country one of Africa’s most significant oil producers. The professionals who work upstream are the ones who find, access, and produce the hydrocarbons that drive the country’s economy.

For career builders, this matters because upstream petroleum jobs consistently pay the highest salaries in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. The technical complexity, the physical risks, and the strategic importance of upstream work create a compensation premium that reflects the genuine value of what these professionals do every day.

For more verified career resources and job listings across Nigeria’s energy sector, visit thecareerbloghub where we publish updated opportunities every week.

Top Upstream Oil and Gas Jobs You Can Apply for Right Now

Here are verified current upstream oil and gas careers from leading companies actively recruiting. Each listing includes full details and a direct link to the official application page.

1. Junior Cost Estimator Jobs

Location: Port Harcourt, Rivers
Employment Type: Full-time

Job Summary

We are seeking a Junior Cost Estimator to support the estimating team by preparing accurate cost estimates, conducting quantity takeoffs, analyzing project costs, and assisting with procurement activities for construction projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in preparing cost estimates for construction projects.
• Perform quantity takeoffs from project drawings and specifications.
• Obtain and evaluate material and equipment pricing from suppliers.
• Support cost analysis for materials, labor, equipment, and subcontractors.
• Use estimating software to prepare estimates and proposals.
• Maintain estimating records, reports, and project documentation.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and other stakeholders.
• Stay updated on industry trends, construction methods, and estimating practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field.
• 2–4 years of estimating experience.
• Ability to interpret civil, architectural, structural, and mechanical drawings.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and estimating software.
• Strong analytical, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Method of Application 

Interested and qualified candidates should send their detailed CVs to: recruitment@oilservltd-ng.com and copy: omjconsult42@gmail.com using the job Title as the subject of the email.

2. Supply Chain Manager

Location: Lagos

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Supply Chain Manager to oversee end-to-end supply chain operations, including procurement, logistics, inventory management, vendor relations, and regulatory compliance. The role focuses on optimizing costs, improving efficiency, managing risks, and supporting business growth through strategic sourcing.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field.
• A Master’s Degree is an added advantage.
• Professional certification (CSCP, CIPS, CPSM, or equivalent) is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 10 years’ supply chain experience, including 5 years in a leadership role within the upstream oil & gas industry.
• Strong knowledge of SAP, Oracle, or other ERP systems.
• Proven expertise in procurement, logistics, contract negotiation, vendor management, compliance, and supply chain risk management.
• Excellent analytical, leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

Method of Application 

Qualified candidates should send their CV to: obeten_mbang@hobarkintl.com

For drilling and petroleum engineering graduates who are also exploring graduate trainee pathways into the upstream sector, our comprehensive guide on Graduate Trainee Jobs covers the best structured entry-level programmes at oil and gas companies and oilfield services firms operating in Nigeria.

3. Cost Controller Job in Port Harcourt – Oil & Gas Industry (5–15 Years Experience)

Location: Port Harcourt, Rivers
Employment Type: Full-time

Job Summary

An exciting opportunity is available for an experienced Cost Controller to join a major upstream oil and gas project in Port Harcourt. The successful candidate will oversee project budgeting, cost control, forecasting, financial reporting, and overall project cost performance to ensure effective financial management throughout the project lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

As the Cost Controller, you will:

• Manage project budgets and monitor cost performance.
• Prepare accurate cost forecasts and financial reports.
• Track project expenditures and ensure alignment with approved budgets.
• Support budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning activities.
• Monitor project cost performance and recommend corrective actions where necessary.
• Prepare periodic cost control reports for management.
• Ensure compliance with company financial policies and reporting standards.
• Work closely with project teams to improve cost efficiency and financial performance.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, applicants should possess:

• Bachelor’s Degree (B.Sc.) or equivalent qualification in Accounting, Finance, Engineering, Economics, or a related discipline.
• 5–15 years of professional work experience.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a similar Cost Controller role within the oil and gas industry.
• Proficiency in SAP and/or Sage v12.
• Strong knowledge of budgeting, forecasting, project cost control, and financial reporting.
• Excellent analytical, reporting, organizational, and communication skills.

Required Skills

• Cost Control
• Budgeting & Forecasting
• Financial Reporting
• Project Cost Management
• SAP
• Sage v12
• Financial Analysis
• Oil & Gas Cost Management
• Analytical Thinking
• Communication Skills

Application Closing Date: Not Specified.

Method of Application 

Qualified candidates should send their CV to: obeten_mbang@hobarkintl.com

4. Business Development Executive (Oil & Gas)

Location: Lagos
Employment Type: Full-time
Job Category: Oil & Gas | Energy & Mining | Sales & Business Development

Job Summary

A reputable organization is seeking a Business Development Executive (Oil & Gas) to drive business growth within the energy sector. The successful candidate will identify new business opportunities, build strong client relationships, and support the expansion of oilfield services, EPC projects, and manpower outsourcing solutions.

This role is ideal for a results-oriented sales professional with industry knowledge, excellent negotiation skills, and a proven ability to develop strategic partnerships.

Key Responsibilities

As the Business Development Executive, you will:

• Identify and pursue new business opportunities within the oil and gas industry.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with existing and prospective clients.
• Promote the company’s oilfield services, EPC solutions, and manpower outsourcing services.
• Develop and implement strategies to achieve sales and revenue targets.
• Prepare business proposals, presentations, and commercial bids.
• Conduct market research to identify industry trends and emerging opportunities.
• Negotiate contracts and close business deals with clients.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure successful project delivery.
• Maintain accurate sales records using CRM tools.
• Represent the company at industry events, meetings, and networking opportunities.

Requirements

Candidates should possess:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in Business Development or Sales within the Oil & Gas or Energy Services industry.
• Strong understanding of oilfield services, EPC projects, and manpower outsourcing.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and CRM software.
• An established professional network within the energy sector will be an added advantage.

Required Skills

Successful candidates should demonstrate:

• Business development and sales expertise.
• Strong client relationship management skills.
• Knowledge of the oil and gas industry.
• Proposal writing and contract negotiation abilities.
• Strategic thinking and market analysis skills.
• Excellent presentation and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and achieve sales targets.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.

Why Join Us?

This opportunity offers the chance to grow your career within the dynamic oil and gas industry while working with a team focused on delivering innovative energy solutions and expanding strategic partnerships.

Method of Application 

Interested candidates should send their CVs to careers@zezltd.com with the subject “Business Development Executive Application.”

For upstream professionals who are also exploring how to present their executive career positioning most effectively when targeting senior roles, our recent article on Executive CEO Resume covers the resume formula that works for senior technical and leadership roles across energy and other sectors.

5. Base Coordinator

Location: Port Harcourt, Rivers
Job Type: Full-time
Job Field: Engineering / Technical

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced Base Coordinator to oversee the management of base facilities, equipment, and operational services. The successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining the Amadi Base, managing accommodation for national and expatriate staff, coordinating community relations, and ensuring all government documentation and certifications required for base operations remain valid and up to date.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the administration and maintenance of:
  • Amadi Base jetty, quayside, offices, warehouse, workshops, and laydown areas.
  • AGO tanks and related accessories.
  • Cranes, forklifts, lifting gear, and other operational equipment.
  • Cleaning of the jetty, waste disposal, sewage systems, and garden maintenance.
  • Fire extinguishers and emergency response equipment.
  • Base security systems.
• Coordinate accommodation management for national and expatriate employees.
• Oversee community relations and engagement with host communities.
• Ensure all government-required documentation and operational certifications are obtained and renewed as required.
• Process and forward invoices and supporting documents for services provided by third-party vendors.
• Maintain accurate maintenance records, equipment documentation, and quayside activity reports.

Expected Outcomes

• Maintain a clean, safe, and well-organized base environment.
• Ensure all base equipment has documented preventive maintenance plans.
• Secure and validate all certifications required for uninterrupted base operations.
• Maintain accurate records of equipment maintenance and operational activities.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree (B.Sc.) in Estate Management, Quantity Surveying, or a related discipline.
• A Master’s Degree (M.Sc.) is an added advantage.
• 5–10 years of relevant work experience.
• Experience in vendor management, report writing, and conflict resolution.
• Strong organizational, communication, and coordination skills

For upstream professionals who are also exploring opportunities at latest jobs in Abuja across government and regulatory roles, our article on Latest Jobs in Abuja covers verified current vacancies at federal agencies, international organizations, and corporate employers in Nigeria’s capital.

What Upstream Oil and Gas Professionals Earn in Nigeria

Understanding upstream oil and gas salary ranges helps you negotiate effectively and target the right level of opportunity. Here is a realistic breakdown across different upstream roles and experience levels:

• Graduate engineers entering the sector through trainee programmes: N300,000 to N600,000 monthly
• Mid-level petroleum, reservoir, and drilling engineers with 3 to 7 years experience: N700,000 to N1,800,000 monthly
• Senior engineers and principal specialists with 8 years plus: N1,500,000 to N3,500,000 monthly
• HSE advisors and specialists: N450,000 to N1,200,000 monthly
• Subsurface geoscientists at exploration companies: N700,000 to N1,500,000 monthly
• Senior technical managers and asset managers: N2,000,000 to N5,000,000 monthly

These figures include base salary alongside field, rotation, and technical allowances. Offshore and rotation roles consistently earn significantly more than equivalent onshore office-based positions at the same technical level due to the physical demands and operational complexity involved.

Skills That Get You Hired in Upstream Oil and Gas

The technical skills that Nigerian and international upstream oil and gas companies consistently require fall into three categories.

1. Engineering and geoscience fundamentals are the foundation. Petroleum engineering, reservoir simulation, drilling design, seismic interpretation, and production optimization are the core technical capabilities that every upstream employer expects of their professional hires. These skills are built through both academic training and hands-on field and project experience.

2. Software and digital proficiency is increasingly essential at every level. Petrel, Eclipse, Prosper, AutoCAD, and data analysis tools are not optional extras. They are baseline requirements that candidates are expected to demonstrate competency in before they are hired.

3. HSE knowledge and safety culture understanding is non-negotiable across the entire upstream sector. Every major oil company operating in Nigeria has a zero-harm or zero-incident safety aspiration, and professionals who cannot demonstrate genuine HSE awareness and commitment are filtered out early in most recruitment processes.

For professionals who want to understand how their upstream skills translate into a strong professional presentation, our guide on LinkedIn Profile Writing Services covers how to optimize your professional profile for oil and gas recruiters who actively search LinkedIn for technical talent.

FAQs: Upstream Oil and Gas Jobs in Nigeria

Conclusion: Apply for Upstream Oil and Gas Jobs Today

Upstream oil and gas jobs in Nigeria span geophysics at TotalEnergies, drilling engineering at Shell, production engineering at Seplat Energy, reservoir engineering at Chevron, and HSE advisory at NUPRC. Every listing in this post is verified and every application link goes directly to an official company career page.

Whether you are a fresh petroleum engineering graduate targeting your first upstream role, a mid-career engineer ready to move from a service company into an operator environment, or an experienced specialist targeting a senior technical or management position, the right opportunity is in this post.

Do not wait. Upstream oil and gas jobs for experienced engineers in Nigeria 2025 and entry-level positions at oilfield services companies are being filled right now. Apply through the official links provided with a strong technical CV, a COREN-verified credentials section, and a cover letter that demonstrates genuine knowledge of the specific company’s upstream operations.

For professionals who are considering remote work opportunities alongside their upstream career search, our comprehensive guide on Remote Jobs for Nigerians covers how Nigerian technical professionals are accessing global opportunities including some upstream data and engineering roles that are increasingly available in hybrid or remote formats.

Keep visiting thecareerbloghub for more verified oil and gas and professional job listings updated regularly across Nigeria so you never miss a career opportunity that matches your upstream technical expertise and career ambitions.