Products from Oil

Some people mistakenly assume oil is only used to fuel their cars, so I've compiled a list to demonstrate the vast variety of other products that are derived from oil. Recently, an oil & gas professional with 20 years of experience in the industry informed me that carbon capture was the primary goal, with only 8% of the oil extracted used for gasoline--the least profitable of all the other byproducts of extraction activities.

How many of these products do you use?

1) acetylsalicylic acid (active ingredient in many over-the-counter pain relievers)
2) adhesive and packing tape
3) adhesive in plywood
4) alkenes (olefins) manufactured into plastics or other compounds
5) ammonia
6) antifreeze
7) antihistamines
8) artificial turf
9) asphalt
10) backup fuel for power plants (in case the supply of natural gas is interrupted)
11) bandages
12) bases for paints
13) benzene
14) boats
15) bubble gum
16) butadiene
17) butane
18) candles
19) car battery cases
20) carpet
21) caulking
22) cleaning agents
23) cold cream
24) compact discs
25) computer cases
26) computer circuit boards
27) computer keyboards
28) computer mouse
29) construction & building materials
30) cosmetics
31) crayons
32) credit cards
33) deodorant
34) detergents
35) dishwashing soap
36) dyes
37) electrical insulation in buildings and computers
38) electricity
39) ethane
40) ethylene
41) explosives
42) eyeglasses
43) fan belts on engines
44) fertilizers
45) fishing lures
46) floor covering
47) floor wax
48) footballs, basketballs, soccer balls…
49) furniture and cabinet coverings (eg Formica)
50) gasoline
51) glycerin (in toothpaste)
52) golf balls
53) hand lotion
54) hardhats
55) heart valves
56) helium (produced from oil wells along with petroleum itself)
57) herbicides
58) industrial resins
59) ink (pens, newspapers, magazines)
60) insect repellant
61) iso-butylenes
62) jet fuel
63) kerosene (a heating fuel and diesel fuel for trucks, ships & industrial machinery)
64) lipstick
65) liquefied petroleum gases-LPGs (domestic heating/cooking, farming operations, alternative to gasoline for internal combustion engines)
66) lubricants (for moving parts in machinery, sewing needles, sliding doors, heavy loads, surgical medical equipment, reduce drag on surf boards)
67) medicinal tablet coatings
68) methanol
69) mosquito netting
70) motorcycle helmets
71) naphtha
72) nylon
73) paint
74) paint thinners
75) pantyhose
76) parachutes
77) paraffin (wax used in candy making, packaging, candles, and matches)
78) pesticides
79) petroleum coke (as raw material for carbon and graphite products such as pencils, furnace electrodes and liners, and the anodes used in the production of aluminum)
80) petroleum jelly (Vaseline)
81) photographic film
82) plastic bottles
83) polyester
84) propane
85) propylene
86) PVC pipes
87) rayon
88) records
89) refrigerants (used in household refrigerators and commercially)
90) roof coatings
91) roofing shingles
92) rope
93) rubber soled shoes
94) sealants
95) shampoo
96) shaving cream
97) shower curtains
98) soft contact lenses
99) solvents
100) styrofoam
101) sulfur (produced from oil wells along with petroleum itself)
102) tap handles
103) tar
104) tires
105) toilet seats
106) toluene
107) toothbrushes
108) trash bags and grocery bags
109) tubing (in medical hospitals for blood, fluids, etc.)
110) varnishes
111) video tapes
112) vitamin capsules
113) water repellant coatings
114) waxes (lining milk cartons)
115) wire insulation
116) xylene
117) the electricity, substances, and fuel required to produce and transport renewable products such as solar panels, wind turbines, blades and towers

and many more...

Landmen $63,000 - $92,000+ / year

In the oil & gas industry, companies can't simply throw a dart at a map and say they want to drill at that point, gambling on whether they strike any oil (or gas). The same holds true for identifing the best location for, say, a wind farm or large solar array.

Once the companies' scientists and engineers (geologists, geophysicists, reservoir engineers, climatoligist, etc.) determine areas they believe have the most potential for extracting a resource (such as oil or wind), in many instances, the area happens to be on someone's personal property, on government land, on land owned by corporations, or a combination of the above.

In addition, getting trucks, crews, and equipment to that particular site means having to drive (or build roads) through many other land owners' (and mineral owners) properties. Transporting the oil or gas out of the drilling site also could mean laying pipeline, or connecting the transmission lines from wind turbines, across multiple properties.

That's where Landmen come in. As usual, companies have various titles for this position, including:
- land negotiator
- land professional
- lease analyst (not to be confused with a "lease operator", aka "Pumper"--which is a field job that operates wells and associated production facilities making $25-40/hr).

Although O-Net does not have a code for this specific title, the closest I've found is: 11-9141.00, "Property, Real Estate, and Community Association Managers".

Landmen research land ownership titles, find the owners and/or heirs of surface rights (and below-the-surface mineral rights) , and negotiate contracts, purchases and/or "oil & gas leases". Landmen are also responsible for keeping these land- and mineral-owners happy, so the firm can continue to have access to and extract the resource.

Western State College has a landman degree program and beginning summer 2009 Mesa State College will also have one. In addition, there are several landmen associations , some of which offer internships, classes, and networking opportunities:
- Denver Association of Petroleum Landmen
- Desk and Derrick Club of Denver
- American Association of Professional Landmen , and
- Landmen.org

Below are examples of job orders from ConnectingColorado.com, to give you a better sense of the requirements for these types of jobs. To see a list of the Colorado businesses that employ landmen (using other respective titles), check out my list of their websites at http://delicious.com/TLynnSargent/extraction-jobs or http://delicious.com/TLynnSargent/green-jobs

"Landman", $63,444-77,196/yr - Job Order #CO5289244:

Two years experience and college degree required. Responsible for complex activities involved in carrying out the activities of the Land Department.

-------

"Lease Analyst", $71,024/year - Job Order #CO5277734:

Analyzes and interprets provisions of various leases, deeds, rights of way, mineral records and agreements involving company assets for assigned areas in order to facilitate the distribution of proceeds from oil and gas sales and collection of well expenses. Maintains ownership records of
producing properties in assigned area. Analyzes legal changes that impact minerals and operations and incorporates those changes into work process.

Detailed Description: Determines working interests and burdens associated with interests based on title analysis of deeds, assignments, purchase & sale agreements, probate documents, leases and royalty agreements,
· Drafts summary analysis of chain of title based upon reviews
· Analyzes division order title opinions and all associated documents
· Processes all probate information and transfer documents from interest owners in order to maintain a correct division of interest
· Maintains and corrects divisions of interest when payouts and recompletions occur
· Acts as liaison to Accounting, Marketing and Operating departments when necessary to respond to interest owner inquiries
· Updates system on Final Reports, Sundry Notices, Disposition Letters, and 1st Pay Notices
· Prepares AFE billing forms and provides to other departments
· Oversees duties performed by Clerks and assists in their training

Job Requirements
· High School Diploma or equivalent and six or more years lease records/division orders experience or Bachelors degree and two or more years related experience
· Advanced knowledge of LAND operations and administrative process in oil and gas industry
· Advanced computer and software skills
· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

------

"Land Negotiator", $92,058/year - Job Order #CO5280857:

Job Description:
Journey level position (5 years experience required). Is fully competent in standard deals, agreements, tasks and procedures. Under general supervision, able to handle most aspects of general land work. Assists in developing recommendations for more complex issues. Assists in managing company's position regarding land (mineral, leasehold and surface) matters, including maintaining critical obligations and dates and coordinating with internal engineers, geo-scientists, and regulatory personnel, for all prospects in specific region. Negotiates and writes contracts for exploration and development. Supervises lease brokers that acquire leasehold interests for the company. Represents company in state and/or federal proceedings relating to spacing units or bidding for leases. Responds to inquiries from lessors, royalty owners, surface owners, working interest owners, and employees from other departments within the company.

Detailed Description:
· Obtains surface usage and right of way agreements for operations
· Negotiates and writes agreements for exploration and development projects
· Researches and obtains land titles for drilling operations
· Liaisons with attorneys on land issues that require litigation
· Provides customer relation services to landowners and working interest partners
· Handles problems with various county, state and municipal governments
· Keeps current on regulations and industry changes that may impact the company

Job Requirements:
· Bachelor’s degree in Business, PLM/Energy management degree or equivalent or JD degree and five years of negotiator experience or equivalency
· Knowledge of state and federal title requirements
· Knowledge of land deals (farmins/farmouts, carried interests, non-consents, etc.) and ability to calculate before and After Payout Working Interests and Net Revenue Interests.
· Communication (verbal and written) and negotiation skills
· Decision-Making Authority/Knowledge
· Responsible for leasing prospects, title curative requirements, and title approval for drilling purposes.

Additional Details:
Normal office environment. May include some field travel.

Schools & other training providers

Here's a list I created and maintain that lists all of the energy-related training providers I've learned about. Use the search box on the right to search for a specific types of training such as 'lineman' or 'engineer'.

Some of these schools are eligible to receive tuition reimbursement under the federal WIA (Workforce Investment Act) for eligible jobseekers. To learn whether the programs are WIA eligible, look them up on this website--click on "Education" along the top to search for the program that interests you. To find out if you, as a jobseeker, are eligible for the WIA program, visit your local workforce center and speak with an advisor. If you're a training provider and would like to submit your program for consideration to receive WIA training funding, go to this website, and "download the instructions".

In addition, there are many apprenticeship programs available at energy companies (they pay you while they train you). See my apprenticeships post for more information.

COLORADO TRAINING PROVIDERS:

Aims Community College, Greeley, CO: welding, electrical wiring, automotive tech, construction management, OSHA, CAD, chemistry, ESL, see also: the MIST program below under MISCELLANEOUS PROGRAMS
Alameda High School, Lakewood, CO: Introduction to Process Technology
Arapahoe Community College, Littleton, CO: geology, construction supv, solar installation
Bowman Voc-Tech, Thornton, CO
Colorado Mountain College, Leadville/Steamboat/virtual, CO: apprenticeships, engineering, process tech, petroleum technology, natural resource mgmt, Industrial Instrumentation Control Technician, engineering...
Colorado Northwestern Community College, Rangley & Craig, CO: GIS, industrial electrician, mine training, powerplant tech, civil engineering, construction tech, energy & facilities mgmt tech, natural resource mgmt, process tech oil & gas
Colorado School of Mines, Golden, CO: engineering, mining, geology, chemistry…
Colorado State University, Ft. Collins, CO: engineering, natural sciences, natural resources, SEAL at Colorado State University-research in solar thermal, building analysis, and HVAC systems, Green Buildings Certificate, Green Homes Certificate
Community College of Aurora, Aurora, CO: biotech, diesel power mechanic, ctr for workforce dev; and has Association of Applied Science articulation agreement with Regis University (making for a much more affordable CIS/BTM bachelor's degree); also, in response to industry demand, is developing a solar photovoltaic training program
Community College of Denver, Denver, CO: welding, Machine and CNC Tool Operator, science, chemistry, ESL, geology; CCD has begun a partnership with EGOS and iCAST to explore developing programming related to the new energy economy. This may include pre-apprentice programming as well as energy-related electives for an associate degree. Programming will likely be implemented in Summer or Fall of 2009.
Community College of Denver - Performance Solutions: Health/Safety/OSHA Training Online Courses; they also help administer the Colorado First and Existing Industry state training grants for employers.
Construction Industry Training Council of Colorado, Inc., Denver, CO: apprenticeship & training in carpentry, electrical, pipefitting, plumbing, & sheetmetal programs.
Delta-Montrose Technical College, Delta, CO: via collaborative partnership with Western Region Workforce Centers provide training in the following areas: Auto & Diesel Mechanic, OHSA, MSHA, Mining Tech, Long Wall Mining
Emily Griffith Opportunity School (EGOS), Denver, CO: customized training, GIS, real estate appraiser, Electrical Line Worker (lineman), Electrician, Iron Worker, Operating Engineer, Pipefitter, Plumber, Sheet Metal Worker, Automotive Technician, Heating/Ventilation/Air Conditioning (HVAC), Welding
Front Range Community College, Westminster, CO: construction tech, welding, CAD, HVAC, OSHA, oil & gas equipment operator, Clean Energy Technology, (see also "Energy BOOST" under Miscellaneous Programs below)...
Heavy Equipment Training Academy, Julesburg, CO
Independent Electrical Contractors, Rocky Mountain Chapter, Denver, CO
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers / Denver Joint Electrical Apprenticeship and Training Committee, Denver, CO: electrical (inside and outside linemen) & IBEW Renewable Energy Industry Program, solar installation, Voice Data Video Telecommunications
Lamar Community College/Red Rocks Community College/Warren Technical-Collaborative: to design an 11-14 (high school to post-secondary pathway) windsmith program that prepares students to work as electrical and mechanical apprentice interns for Wazee and other national wind turbine maintenance firms upon high school graduation while completing their Associate of Applied Science degree in Wind Energy.
Mesa County Energy Workforce Training Center, Grand Junction, CO: Energy extraction site truck driver, construction & heavy equipment operations, oil & gas rig hand training; NOTE: training center is not yet open, but near completion
Mesa State / Western State Community College, Grand Junction, CO: construction tech, bioscience, electric line worker/lineman (Mesa Hotline School), energy mgmt, mfg tech, geology, phys sciences, process tech, watershed science, landman/energy management
Metropolitan State College, Denver, CO: chemistry, engineering
Morgan Community College, Ft. Morgan, CO: automotive, construction, welding
Northeastern Jr College, Sterling, CO: biotech, chemistry, pre-engineering, bioagriculture, diesel tech, and developing a renewable energy (wind) program
Pickens Tech, Aurora, CO: automotive/diesel, welding, construction & dev, pre-engineering
Pikes Peak Community College, Colorado Springs, CO: construction tech, automotive, biosciences, machining tech, physics, pre-engineering, welding
Pipefitters Local 208, Denver, CO: pipefitting, welding, HVAC…
Pueblo Community College, Pueblo, CO: auto, engineering tech, industrial electronics, machining tech, welding; and currently participating in the NSF/ATE MentorLinks grant which allows PCC to collaborate with the wind energy program at Laramie County Community College in Cheyenne, WY; also developing a training program to facilitate movement of workers from the steel mill industry to the Vestas tower plant.
Red Rocks Community College, Golden, CO: Industrial Science & Operations (including Process Technology Program), electrical, plumbing, and HVAC, Renewable Energy Technology (including solar certificates and degrees), Industrial Maintenance; Electrical, Mechanical; articulation agreement with Colorado School of Mines
San Juan Basin Technical College, Cortez, CO: via collaborative partnership with Western Region Workforce Centers provide training in the following areas: Diesel Mechanic, Heavy Equip. Operator, Welding, OHSA
Trinidad State Junior College, Trinidad, CO: EPIC scholarship program, heavy equipment operator, diesel/heavy equipment, welding, electrical & utility line technician (lineman)
University of Colorado at Boulder, Boulder, CO: CU Environmental Center
University of Colorado at Denver - GEM, Denver, CO: Global Energy Management graduate program
University of Colorado at Denver, Denver, CO: undergrad O&G Accounting
University of Colorado at Denver - Sustainability Program, Denver, CO: Sustainability, Interdisciplinary Signature Area; IGERT: inter-disciplinary graduate program on sustainable urban infrastructure
University of Denver, Denver, CO: engineering, science...
Warren-Tech, Lakewood, CO: construction tech, biotech, power equipment, welding…
Western Colorado Community College, Grand Jct, CO: process tech, welding, electrical lineworker (lineman), construction tech, machining, drafting/CAD...
Western State College, Gunnison, CO: geology, chemistry, environmental studies, geology, physics, landman...

COLORADO LISTS OF SCHOOLS:

Colorado Private Occupational Schools (includes truck "Driving" schools)
2-Year Community Colleges
Technical Colleges/Vocational Schools


MISCELLANEOUS PROGRAMS:

Adams 50 School District - School to Work Alliance Program (SWAP), Westminster, CO
Adams County Workforce WIRED solar training program: Currently being developed; training will be delivered through proctored computer-based training. It will include modules for both solar manufacturing and solar installation. The initial opportunities for this training will begin in January and be available through Adams & Boulder Co only.
Advanced Technology Environmental and Energy Center (ATEEC): a national center that promotes and supports environmental and energy technology education to address the needs of the national and global workforce - also maintains an online listing of environmental and energy technology programs in the nation's two-year colleges
Alliance for Sustainable Colorado, Denver, CO: university research and collaborative activities, capacity building workshops, sustainable Colorado lunch series, Alliance for Sustainable Colorado speaker series, building tours...
American Petroleum Institute Classroom Energy and Certificate Programs: API Monogram Program, APIQR, Individual Certification Programs (ICP), Perforator Registration, Engine Oil Licensing and Certification System (EOLCS), and API Training Provider Certification Program (TPCP).
Arrupe Jesuit High School, Denver, CO: Corporate Work Study program
Associated General Contractors of CO, Denver, CO: OSHA courses
Basic Employment Skills Training (BEST)-Work Exchange Pilot Program, Denver, CO: CAD training for & work done by homeless people; BEST aims to partner with AEC (Architecture/Engineering/Construction), and other technical companies, who can post non-critical work to the work center
Bentley, US: on-demand e-learning: GIS/geospatial software solutions architectural, engineering, construction (AEC), and geospatial software needs of subscribers, providing building, plant, civil, and geospatial solutions and supporting a managed environment for their AEC and geospatial IT
BETR Project, Colo Spgs, CO: business and education partnership, primary objective and vision was to promote ways to address the workforce problems that business has had with the quality of applicants for employment openings in Southeastern Colorado. The Business and Education Talent Readiness Project (BETR) was formed. Tuesday tours of businesses for teachers & students...
Career Education Center, Denver, CO
Collbran Job Corps Center, Collbran (Gr. Jct), CO: Career Technical Training: Business Technology, Carpentry, Cement Masonry, CISCO Networking Academy, Facilities Maintenance, Welding
Colorado MESA, CO: organization under the Colorado Minority Engineering Association (CMEA) Our Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) program is designed to encourage minority and female students to prepare themselves for a college education and to major in mathematics, engineering or science
Colorado Mining Association (CMA), CO
Colorado Solar Energy Industries Association (CoSeia), Carbondale, CO: Solar certification and training guides.
httpCRC - WorkKeys - Applied Technology module, CO: tests to assess your math skills, mechanical aptitude, and other skills, administered by many Colorado workforce centers
Denver Parks First Tee Program, Denver, CO: teaches children math while learning golf
Denver Public Schools Business Partnerships, Denver, CO: mentorship opportunities, industry presentations
Denver School of Science & Technology, Denver, CO: curriculum designed to challenge students & prepare them attend and succeed in a 4-year college; strong liberal arts curriculum w/ emphasis on the sciences...develop key skills in math, science, reading, writing, critical thinking and technology...math, biology, and other advanced science electives (physics, chemistry, biotechnology) during the 11th and 12th grade years
Employment Services of Weld County & Aims Community College, Greeley, CO: Multi Industry Systems Technician (MIST) program. The MIST Prep Academy will assist individuals in improving their math, reading and English skills and prepare them for either entry level jobs in the energy field or to enter into the certification programs under the MIST Program. Examples of courses for the MIST I and MIST II certificate levels include: Technical Mathematics, Introduction to PC Applications, Business Ethics, Technical Writing or Business Communications and Report Writing, Blue Print Reading, Process Technology, Basics of AC/DC Electricity, Instrumentation, and more.
ENERGY BOOST: Basic Training for the Energy Industry, Front Range Community College - Larimer Campus, Fort Collins, CO: Those who successfully complete this 80-hour program are guaranteed an interview at an exclusive job fair with the area's top energy companies, including Vestas Blades, Platte River Power Authority, Woodward, Solix and others. Production worker and technician positions starting at $30,000 per year.
EnergyU: "the most comprehensive e-learning portal for the Energy Industry...home to over 600 energy companies and nearly 20,000 employees nationwide."
English as a Second Language (ESL): various providers (in addition to ESL courses available at Denver's DIA Workforce Center); additional list also available on Denver's Office of Community Support website.
Environmental Safety, Aurora, CO: haz mat/abatement training (WIA approved)
Environmental Defense Fund Climate Corp: Together with our partner, Net Impact, EDF embeds trained MBA students who identify energy efficiency improvements that can cut costs and reduce emissions
Geothermal.org geothermal heat pump consortium training nationwide
Gobbell Hays, Denver, CO: haz mat/abatement training (WIA approved)
Goodwill Energy Workforce Program: Students recently participated in a week-long renewable energy training program, facilitated by Al Wallace with Energy Environmental Corporation. Students explored the properties of renewable energy and new sustainable technologies in wind, solar, earth and water by working with their hands, using state-of-the-art equipment and hearing from local industry experts.
International Center for Appropriate and Sustainable Technology (iCast), Lakewood, CO: Energy auditing training, solar thermal installation, insulation and air sealing, Air Conditioning installation.
Institute for a Built Environment (CSU), Ft. Collins & Ext. ofcs in Denver & Colo Spgs, CO: interdisciplinary research institute that engages faculty and industry partners in healthy and sustainable building issues, including LEED accreditation training & exam prep
International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC): "High quality training that meets international, industry standards is the goal of IADC accreditation programs."
MiCasa Women in Construction , Denver, CO: construction, CDL-B, pre-apprenticeship program (includes a one-week Introduction to Construction course and five weeks of Pre-Apprenticeship construction training, including two weeks of theory and practical installation of solar, thermal and wind energy technology. Further training for weatherization and historic restoration is under development. The program begins in February 2009.)
Mile High Youth Corps, Denver, CO: energy conservation & retrofit projects; several conservation learning programs including a residential energy auditing and weatherization program. Youth learn to assess a home for energy and water inefficiencies and then install things such as low-flow toilets & showerheads, CFLs and weather stripping. Also in partnership with the Denver Housing Authority, youth learn green building techniques and skills.
National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Golden, CO: varoius K-12, Internship/Graduate, and Teacher programs on energy efficiency and renewable energy (solar, geothermal, wind, hydrogen, etc)
OSHA, Denver, CO: hosts a number of inexpensive training programs (also in Spanish), Compliance Assistance: Hispanic Employers and Workers
PetroSkills: sessions on topics spanning the industry, from Exploration & Production to Surface Facilities, HSE, and Petroleum Business
Practical GeoExchange Solutions: geothermal system design
Project Learning Tree: an award winning, multi-disciplinary environmental education program for educators and students in PreK-grade 12. PLT, a program of the American Forest Foundation, is one of the most widely used environmental education programs in the United States and abroad. PLT continues to set the standard for environmental education excellence.
REScheck Online Training: covers the basics of complying with the 2000 International Energy Conservation Code using REScheck. Audience: Building energy code officials, designers, engineers, builders, and anyone else involved in demonstrating energy code compliance for a residential building
Residential Energy Efficiency Network (RESNET), aka E-Star Home Energy Rating System (HERS), Berthoud, CO: E-Star is a Home Energy Rating System (HERS) program that is certified by a nationwide program called the Residential Energy Efficiency Network (RESNET).
Solar Energy International, Carbondale, CO: Solar Electricity (PV), Wind Power, Micro-hydro, Sustainable Home Design & Natural House Building, Solar Thermal, Renewable Fuels, Rural Development, Women's Only, For Educators, Online courses.
Sunpower Inc, Denver, CO: home energy audits, energy efficiency, weatherization, insulation, furnace...
Sustainable Energy Education and Training (SEET), a project funded by a grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF Award No. DUE-0602633) and runs from October 1, 2006 through September 30, 2008. Provides professional development training for 50 upper level high school and community college technology instructors that focuses on the areas of energy efficiency and energy conservation and delivered through two ten-day intensive annual workshops at national laboratories
Turnabout, Inc., Denver, CO: prisoner reentry agency that focuses on employment, project provides training on "hard skills" such as Solar Panel Installation, Wind Power Installation and Equipment, OSHA certification, Industrial First Aid/C.P.R. certification, Commercial Drivers License (A & B) for the Energy sector.
WIRED: programs developed by local partnerships and funded by US DOL grants to train and place people in targeted industry jobs (including energy).

OUT OF STATE SCHOOLS:

American Association of Community Colleges
Austin Community College , Austin, TX: Solar Photovoltaic and Solar Thermal Power, Wind and Geothermal Power...
Bismarck State College, ND: contains some on-line courses that can be useful in studying/preparing for the Xcel Energy EEI Exams (POSS & MOSS): Specifically, the Industrial Aptitude Course is helpful in prepping for the EEI exam. The Orientation to the Electric Industry is good information to get an overview on this industry.
Brazosport Community College, Lake Jackson, TX: Chemical Tech, Computer Tech, Drafting, HVAC and Refrigeration Tech, Heavy Equipment Tech, Industrial & Commercial Construction, Industrial & Commercial Electricity, Industrial & Commercial Pipefitting, Instrumentation Tech, Machine Tech/Millwright, Safety, Health, & Environmental Mgmt, Welding...
Cloud County Community College, KS: Wind Energy Technology, physics, engineering...
College of Eastern Utah, UT: chemistry, engineering, geology, physics, apprentice electrician, auto tech, building construction, diesel eqpt tech, drafting & design, hydraulics, machine tool tech, mining, welding, process tech.
Columbia Gorge Community College, OR: Renewable Energy Technology
Community-Based Job Training Investment Center: projects awarded DOL training grants; sort by industry or state
Eastern Utah Western Energy Training Center, UT
Enform, CN
Essex County Vocational Technical School, NJ: Sustainable Energy Academy (Architectural design/drafting, carpentry, electrical maintenance & construction, welding, HVAC)
Fairbanks Pipeline Training Center, Fairbanks, Alaska
Hudson Valley Community College, Troy, NY: School of Engineering and Industrial Technologies, Introductory Photovoltaic (Solar) Electric Systems, The Center for Energy Efficiency and Building Science Offerings (New Wave in Contracting seminar, Envelope Professional, Building Analyst Training, Envelope Professional Training)
Iowa Lakes College, Estherville, IA: Wind Energy and Turbine Technology Program
Lake Region State College in Devils Lake, Devils Lake, ND: hopes to start a wind technician course in near future
Laramie County Community College, WY: chemistry, Diesel Technology, engineering, Associate of Applied Science in Wind Energy ...
Lousiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA: science, engineering (petroleum, biological, environmental...)
Marietta College, Marietta, OH: petroleum engineering, geology, biochemistry...
McMurray Training Center, WY: First Aid & CPR, Fall Protection, OHSA, Floorhand, IADC Rig Pass, Derrick Hand, Well Control, Heavy Equipment Operator, CDLA, CDLB, Carpentry; has online self-assessment/screening tool
Minnesota Center for Renewable Energy: Minnesota State University, MN: Mankato, Minnesota West Community and Technical College: College of Science, Engineering and Technology, Minnesota West Community and Technical College
Missouri University of Science & Technology, Rolla, MO: science, geological engineering (including mining, petroleum)...
Montana State University, College of Technology, MT: diesel mech, construction tech, drafting & design, HVAC-R, power plant tech, process tech, welding...
Morrisville State College, Morrisville, NY: science, engineering, drafting, natural resources, agriculture, Renewable Energy Training Center
Mountain States Line Constructors Joint Apprenticeship and Training Program, Midvale, UT: Outside Electrical Lineman apprenticeships
National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER), Gainesville, FL: not-for-profit education foundation created to develop industry-driven standardized craft training programs with portable credentials and help address the critical workforce shortage facing the construction industry.
New Mexico Junior College, Hobbs, NM: welding, drafting, chemistry, construction, nuclear technician, pre-engineering, industrial technology...
New Mexico Tech, Socorro, NM: science & engineering (including electrical, mineral, environmetal, petroleum & natural gas)...
North Carolina State University Solar Center, NC: clearinghouse for solar and other renewable energy programs, information, research, technical assistance, and training for the citizens
Northwest Energy Education Institute, OR: Renewable Energy Technician
Oklahoma University, OK
Pennsylvania State University, multiple campuses, PA: agricultural sciences, engineering...
Rice University - Houston, TX: Shell Center for Sustainability, engineering, science, environmental...
San Juan College, NM: building trades, diesel tech, drafting, welding, petroleum tech, construction, welding, industrial mech, rig operations, well control, natural gas compression, renewable energy, solar installation…
Texas A&M, College Station, TX: geosciences, engineering (petroleum, nuclear, industrial, ocean...)
Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX: engineering (including petroleum), science (including energy), Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources...
Uintah Basin Applied Technology College, UT: petroleum tech, truck driving, electrical apprenticeship, drafting, welding, diesel tech
University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS: engineering (chemical, petroleum, electrical, bio, environmental), science...
University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Lafayette, LA: science, engineering (chemical, electrical, petroleum...)
University of Missouri, MO: science, engineering (nuclear, petroleum, mining...)
University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK: College of Earth and Energy
University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA: science, engineering (civil, chemical, petroleum...)
University of Texas at Austin - Petroleum and Geosystems Engineering, TX
University of Texas - Petroleum Extension Service, TX
University of Texas – School of Law, TX: oil & gas law
University of Texas at Dallas The School of Management: Oil & Gas Financial Management
University of Tulsa, Tulsa, OK: engineering & natural sciences
University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI: engineering (including nuclear), GIS, chemistry...
University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY: School Energy Resources, science, engineering (including environmental, petroleum)...
Virginia Tech University, Blacksburg, VA: science, engineering, natural resources, School of Construction, 76 masters and 62 doctoral degrees through eight academic colleges...
Western Wyoming Community College, WY: various Technology & Industry
West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV: science, engineering (petroleum, natural gas, environmental...)
WyoTech, Laramie, WY (and CA, FL & PA): diesel mechanics, HVAC, plumbing & electrical
Williston State College, ND

I also maintain a list of various training programs, articles and information on my Delicious site:
- http://delicious.com/TLynnSargent/extraction-training
- http://delicious.com/TLynnSargent/green-training

Foreign Degrees

I'm often asked by recent immigrants whether the engineering degrees they acquired overseas could apply toward engineering degree requirements for jobs in Colorado's energy industry. I found the following answer from the Colorado State Department of Regulatory Agencies, PE (Professional Engineer) licensing information

Licensing FAQs:

Q: Does Colorado recognize the Washington Accord Agreement for foreign degrees?

A: Applicants who graduated from universities in countries that are Washington Accord signatories are no longer exempted from the evaluation requirements for foreign degrees and the Washington Accord status is no longer recognized by the Board as of February 10, 2006. The exception is any degree accredited by the Canadian Accreditation Board (CAB). All other foreign degrees are required to be evaluated by ECEI (for degrees evaluated prior to October 30, 2006) and by either AACRAO - you need a course-by-course evaluation) or CPEES (for degrees reviewed on or after October 30, 2006) if the applicant wishes to have his/her education considered for credit in the application review process.

How to Land a Job in the Solar Industry

(photo courtesy of SolSource)


I came across an article on Renewable Energy World's website written by Isabelle Christensen, PhD that I'd like to share. It's entitled How to Land a Job in the Solar Industry: Upstream vs. Downstream and is dated December 21, 2007.

Dr. Christensen writes, "A recently released report predicts that solar photovoltaic companies will see a continued steep increase in revenues from $15.6 billion last year to $69.3 billion nine years from now. Estimates from other analysts and associations suggest that this is a conservative number and claim the increase in revenues generated will be even greater than anticipated. This dynamic growth and bright forecast make the solar industry one of the most attractive new sectors to employees. As a result, more and more people are looking for a job in the solar industry.

With booming consumer interest, strong public support in terms of legislation and incentives, and growing market demand worldwide, enormous opportunity exists for those who want to transition into the solar industry. Jobs at all levels are becoming available for a number of positions including installers, sales people, mechanical engineers, manufacturing personnel, R&D scientists and engineers, marketing and finance, and others..." [read the remainder of this article and others' comments about it at this link]

In her article, Dr. Christensen provides guidance on ways you can increase your chances of getting a solar job. Though in my opinion the best advice she provides, which applies to any job in any industry, is "...if you do not love a job, leave it so that someone else can enjoy it and succeed."

To search Colorado solar company websites for their job postings, visit the green-jobs tag on my Delicious site, then click on the "solar" tag to filter the list for solar results. The list can then be sorted alphabetically or chronologically (by the date I added the site to my site).

What are the jobs?

As in any industry, there are core jobs specific to each industry. In the energy industry, these include the oil & gas jobs as well as renewable energy jobs (or "green" jobs) in Colorado. Examples of these core jobs are: roustabouts (laborers who work on oil rigs), petroleum engineers, solar panel installers, and wind turbine technicians, among many others.

Then there are all the other ancillary/support positions used in any industry, such as marketing manager, accountant, salesperson, customer service representative, and those in IT. All of these support positions are also considered oil & gas jobs or renewable energy jobs.

Both types of positions are critical to the operations of a company and all are used at one point or another throughout the life cycle of the business, product, and/or service. Generally, in newer technologies the scientists and engineers outnumber the support positions as they undergo research and development. As the product or service is developed, commercialized and matures, the numbers of support positions (such as those in sales, installation, bookkeeping) increase.

In order to try to measure, categorize and describe occupations, many government agencies use a national coding system called O-Net which grew out of an older SOC coding system. Currently there are 812 O-Net codes and new codes are added as new occupations emerge. In June 2008, 102 new job titles and descriptions are to be added to the database. These "new and emerging" codes include:

- Energy Auditor
- Energy Broker
- Renewable Energy Technician
- Geospatial Information Systems Technician
- Bioinformatics Scientist (Biotechnology)
- Bioinformatics Technician (Biotechnology)

Note: NREL is one of the businesses that employs bioinformatics scientists and technicians.

Using a variety of sources, I've compiled a list of nearly 200 existing O-Net codes below to give you a sense of just how many different types of occupations are employed in the energy industry. This list certainly is not exhaustive. There are many occupations in the energy industry (such as "Landmen") which do not yet have an O-Net code assigned.

In addition, companies often have company-specific titles, which may not exactly match an O-Net title --though if you search the skillset of the standardized O-Net, or refer to O-Net's Lay Title list, you'll likely find a similar title.

Some of these job titles can be found on other websites, such as :

- The Rockies Energy Workforce Collaborative contains various titles employed in the energy industry with a short description of each
- California's "Green Jobs Guidebook" contains job titles, pay information, career ladders, job descriptions, minimum qualifications, specific training & partnership programs and other useful information.

To see a summary report (which includes tasks, abilities, work context, wages, employment trends, and links to videos) for each occupation classified with an O-Net code, type the O-Net code or the title into the occupation quick search box at http://online.onetcenter.org/

Title, O-Net (the text in brackets [ ] are my notes)
Accountants - 13201101
Accountants and Auditors - 13201100
Agricultural and Food Science Technicians - 19401100
Agricultural Technicians - 19401101
Auditors - 13201102
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics - 49302300
Automotive Specialty Technicians - 49302302
Biochemists and Biophysicists - 19102100
Biological Technicians - 19402100
Boilermakers - 472011
Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks - 43303100
Calibration and Instrumentation Technicians - 17302302
Cashiers - 41201100
Chemical Engineers - 17204100
Chemical Technicians - 19403100
Chemists - 19203100
Civil Engineering Technicians - 17302200
Civil Engineers - 17205100
Computer and IT Managers - 11302100
Computer Hardware Engineers - 17206100
Computer Software Engineers, Applications - 15103100
Computer Software Engineers, Systems Software- 15103200
Computer Support Specialists - 151041
Computer Controlled Machine Tool Operators - 51401100
Conservation Scientists - 19103100
Control and Valve Installers and Repairers, Except Mechanical Door - 499012
Crushing, Grinding, and Polishing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders - 519021
Customer Service Representatives - 43405100
Cutting/Punching/Press Machine Setters/Operators/Tenders - 51403100
Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas - 47501100
Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters/Operators/Tenders - 51403200
Earth Drillers, Except Oil and Gas - 47502100
Electric Meter Installers and Repairers - 49901201
Electric Motor and Switch Assemblers and Repairers - 49209202
Electric Motor, Power Tool, and Related Repairers - 49209200
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technicians - 17302300
Electrical and Electronic Equipment Assemblers - 51202200
Electrical and Electronic Inspectors and Testers - 51906104
Electrical and Electronics Drafters - 17301200
Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers, Transportation - 49209300
Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial - 49209400
Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Powerhouse, Substation - 49209500
Electrical Drafters - 17301202
Electrical Engineering Technicians - 17302303
Electrical Engineers - 17207100
Electrical Parts Reconditioners - 49209205
Electrical Power Line Installers and Repairers - 49905100
Electricians - 47211100
Electromechanical Equipment Assemblers - 51202300
ElectroMechanical Technicians - 17302400
Electronic Drafters - 17301201
Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles - 49209600
Electronic Masking System Operators - 51502209
Electronics Engineering Technicians - 17302301
Electronics Engineers, Except Computer - 17207200
Engine and Other Machine Assemblers - 512031
Engineering Managers - 11904100
Engineering Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other - 17302999
Engineers, All Other - 17219999
Environmental Engineering Technicians - 17302500
Environmental Engineers - 17208100
Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health - 19409100
Environmental Scientists and Specialists - 192041
Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators - 537032
Executive Secretaries and Administrative Assistants - 43601100
Financial Analysts - 13205100
Fire Prevention and Protection Engineers [SunCor has their own fire dept onsite] - 17211102
First Line Supervisors/Managers of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers - 471011
First Line Supervisors/Managers of Helpers, Laborers, and Material Movers, Hand - 531021
First Line Supervisors/Managers of Production/Operating - 511011
Food Science Technicians [biofuels] - 19401102
Food Scientists and Technologists, - 19101200
Forest and Conservation Technicians - 19409300
Gas Appliance Repairers - 49903102
Gas Compressor and Gas Pumping Station Operators - 53707100
Gas Compressor Operators - 53707102
Gas Distribution Plant Operators - 51809202
Gas Plant Operators - 51809200
Gas Processing Plant Operators - 51809201
Gas Pumping Station Operators - 53707101
Gaugers - 51809303
General and Operations Managers - 11102100
Geological and Petroleum Technicians - 19404100
Geological Data Technicians - 19404101
Geological Sample Test Technicians - 19404102
Geoscientists - 19204200
Graphic Designers - 27102400
Grinding/Lapping/Polishing/Buffing Machine Tool Operators - 51403300
Hazardous Materials Removal Workers [cleaning refinery/powerplant stacks] - 474041
Health and Safety Engineers, Except Mining Safety Engineers - 17211100
Helpers: Electricians - 473013
Helpers: Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers - 499098
Helpers: Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters - 473015
Helpers: Production Workers - 519198
Human Resource Specialists - 13107999
HVAC Mechanics and Installers - 49902100
Hydrologists - 192043
Industrial Engineering Technicians - 17302600
Industrial Engineers - 17211200
Industrial Machinery Mechanics - 499041
Industrial Production Managers - 11305100
Industrial Safety and Health Engineers - 17211101
Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators - 537051
Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers - 51906100
Insulation Workers [energy efficiency] - 472131
Janitors and Cleaners - 37201100
Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers - 537062
Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters/Operators/Tenders, -51403400
Life, Physical, and Social Science Technicians, All Other - 19409999
Locomotive Engineers [transport coal by rail] - 53401100
Machinists - 51404100
Maintenance and Repair Workers - 49904200
Maintenance Workers, Machinery - 499043
Management Analysts - 13111100
Mapping Technicians - 17303102
Marine Engineers [off-shore derricks] - 17212101
Marine Engineers and Naval Architects - 17212100
Marketing Managers - 11202100
Materials Engineers - 17213100
Materials Scientists - 19203200
Mechanical Drafters - 17301300
Mechanical Engineering Technicians - 17302700
Mechanical Engineers - 17214100
Microbiologists - 19102200
Milling and Planing Machine Setters/Operators/Tenders - 51403500
Mining and Geological Engineers, Including Mining Safety Engine - 17215100
Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines - 49304200
Multiple Machine Tool Setters/Operators/Tenders - 51408100
Natural Science Managers - 11912100
Nuclear Engineers - 17216100
Nuclear Equipment Operation Technicians - 19405101
Nuclear Monitoring Technicians - 19405102
Nuclear Technicians - 19405100
Occupational Health and Safety Technicians - 29901200
Office Clerks, General - 43906100
Operating Engineers - 47207302
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators - 47207300
Ordinary Seamen and Marine Oilers - 53501102
Petroleum Engineers - 17217100
Petroleum Pump System Operators - 51809301
Petroleum Pump System Operators, Refinery Operators, and Gauger - 51809300
Petroleum Refinery and Control Panel Operators - 51809302
Physicists - 19201200
Pipelayers - 47215100
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters - 472152
Power Plant Operators - 51801300
Product Safety Engineers - 17211103
Production, Planning, and Expediting Clerks - 43506100
Purchasing Agents - 13102300
Rail Yard Engineers, Dinkey Operators, and Hostlers - 53401300
Refuse & Recycling Workers [biofuel] - 53708100
Rotary Drill Operators, Oil and Gas - 47501200
Roustabouts, Oil and Gas - 47507100
Sailors and Marine Oilers -53501100
Sales Engineers - 41903100
Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing - 41401100
Security Guards - 33903200
Separating, Filtering, Clarifying, Precipitating, and Still Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders - 519012
Service Unit Operators, Oil, Gas, and Mining - 47501300
Sheet Metal Workers - 47221100
Ship Engineers - 53503100
Shipping, Receiving, and Traffic Clerks - 43507100
Soil and Plant Scientists - 19101300
Stationary Engineers - 51802102
Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators - 51802100
Stock Clerks - 43508100
Surveying and Mapping Technicians - 17303100
Surveying Technicians - 17303101
Surveyors - 171022
Team Assemblers - 51209200
Tool and Die Makers - 51411100
Tool Grinders, Filers, and Sharpeners - 51419400
Traffic Technicians - 53604100
Training and Development Specialists - 13107300
Truck Drivers - 53303200
Welders and Solderers - 51412106
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers - 51412100

Apprenticeships

Earn while you learn!

What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a paid training program that lasts 3-5 years (depending on the program, industry standards, & state licensing requirements). These apprenticeship training programs are created by companies, industry associations, and/or labor unions. Men and women students of these programs are called “apprentices” and work full-time while receiving paid on-the-job training. The average hourly wages paid during apprenticeships are $11-$17, including benefits.

Although much of the training occurs on-the-job, apprentices also attend classes two or three nights per week to learn additional skills such as math or reading blueprints. Upon successful completion of an apprenticeship, the apprentice becomes a “journeyman”. The average journeyman wage is $22-$30 per hour, and the skills you learn are transferable across many different industries.
How do I apply for an apprenticeship?
In most skilled-trade (construction) apprenticeships, you must be at least 18 years old (17 for carpentry), be physically able to perform the essential functions of the trade, have a high school diploma or GED, and have your own transportation (and driver’s license) so you can travel to and from various job sites.

Most apprenticeships do not charge tuition, but may require a fee to apply. The application and interview process is similar to applying and interviewing for a job. You should be well-prepared, bring all necessary paperwork, and be on time! See "What Does It Take To Become An Electrician?" below for an example of the paperwork, testing, and process required to apply for an electrical apprenticeship.

Where are the apprenticeships?
According to CareerVoyages.com, there are about 28,000 registered apprenticeship programs across U.S., with more than 468,000 apprentices currently obtaining the skills they need to succeed while earning the wages they need to build financial security. In Colorado, there are currently 97 registered apprenticeship sponsors (76 of which are in the Construction industry, 63 in Energy, 1 in Healthcare, 8 in Hospitality, 3 in Biotechnology, and 11 in Geospatial Technology).

To find a registered apprenticeship program in a high growth industry, visit this website: http://www.careervoyages.gov/apprenticeship-main.cfm, go to the box labeled “View Apprenticeships in Your Area”, enter your zip code or state, and click the “Go” button.

Embedded below is a YouTube video (geared toward high school students but has great info) and apprenticeship programs. Although the video discussed trades in Canada, the information is applicable to trades everywhere.


Sample of Colorado Construction Apprenticeship Programs:

Building Trade Apprenticeship Program / Address / Phone / Starting Wage / Journeyman Wage / Term (in yrs)

Note: wages listed may be renegotiated on July 1, 2008.

International Assoc. of Heat, Frost & Insulators / 140 Sheridan / 303.742.9010 / $16.05 / $27.03 / 4 yrs

Carpenters / 4290 Holly St. / 303.393.6060 / $13.50 / $22.50 / 4 yrs

Cement Mason / 4515 W. 41st Ave. / 303.455.0885 / $15.61 / $22.30 / 3 yrs

Electrician, Inside Commercial / 5610 Logan / 303.295.1903 / $14.17 / $28.91 / 4 yrs

Electrician, Residential / 5610 Logan / 303.295.1903 / $12.13 / $23.79 / 3 yrs

Electrician Voice Data Video / 5610 Logan / 303.295.1903 / $12.58 / $20.97 / 3 yrs

Glaziers / 2170 S. Lipan / 303.761.1324 / $16.89 / $25.35 / 3 yrs

Iron Workers / 3385 Walnut / 303.296.6626 / $14.70 / $21.00 / 3 yrs

Laborer's / 10505 Havana St. / 303.287.3116 / $11.48 / $14.35 / 2 yrs

Millwrights / 4290 Holly St. / 303.393.6060 / $12.75 / $25.49 / 4 yrs

Operating Engineers / 990 Kalamath / 303.623.8334 / $15.17 / $20.34 / 3 yrs

Pipefitters / 6350 Broadway / 303.428.6541 / $14.28 / $28.55 / 5 yrs

Plumbers / 17100 E. 32nd Pl. / 303.739.9100 / $16.91 / $31.62 / 5 yrs

Sheet Metal Workers / 1515 W. 47th Ave. / 720.855.0305 / $14.02 / $28.04/ 4 yrs

What Does It Take To Become An Electrician?
(source accessed on 6/13/08: http://www.djeatc68.com/

"First and foremost it takes hard work and discipline. Work ethic and work attitudes are both essential elements of becoming a successful electrician. During your apprenticeship you will be expected to maintain at least a 75% average in your course work while attending class two nights a week. You will be expected to attend every class session with a maximum of three absences allowed (per year). You must report to work every day on time and be ready to work. Also, you would need to have reliable transportation and be willing to commute or relocate if construction sites are in remote locations.

Being an electrician can be physically demanding. You would be expected to be on your feet for a lot of the day, manipulate heavy conduit, and to work in difficult places like on ladders or in small spaces. You could work in a variety of conditions, from outside, where you’re exposed to harsh weather, or in cramped places. Your work is potentially hazardous as well, as you would be exposed to electrical shocks, falling from scaffolding, or being cut with sharp tools. You would have to adhere to strict safety guidelines and be alert at all times.

With experience and expertise electricians can be eligible for advancement to positions of greater responsibility. They might become supervisors, managers, or superintendents. Some may even start their business as a contractor. Whatever your goals might be, remaining focused and disciplined is the key to making it work.

How To Apply:

PROGRAMS:
1. Inside Wireman, 5-year curriculum condensed into a 4-year program
2. Residential Wireman, 3-year program
3. Voice Data Video Telecommunications, 3-year program

ALL APPLICATIONS MUST BE COMPLETED IN PERSON: $20 to apply – credited back upon acceptance into the program. Open for applications Monday thru Friday 8:00am-11:00am and 1:00pm-4:00pm

REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION:
- must be at least 18 years of age
- two forms of I.D. (driver’s license, birth certificate, passport, etc.)
- college transcripts (if you attended)
- copy of DD214 (if you were in the military)
- official H.S. transcripts and High School Diploma or G.E.D. (only required when transcripts do not have a graduation date)
- one credit of algebra (required for the inside program only) - for those who cannot fulfill the algebra requirement, you may substitute the NJATC on-line Tech Math Class ($100)-- call the office for information on registration

After you apply and submit all of the required documentation, you will be scheduled for an aptitude test. The test is given the first Tuesday of every month. If you receive a qualifying score on the test, you will be scheduled for an interview with six members appointed by the committee. You will be notified of your exact interview date and time via mail. At the interview you will be scored by each member. The scores you receive will be compiled and you will be placed on a ranking list based on your average score. Names are taken from the ranking list when new apprentices are accepted into the program."

Xcel Energy Jobs

Jobseekers looking for entry-level positions in the electrical generation industry could consider a couple of positions at Xcel Energy: Plant Specialist C (in the Energy Supply Department) and Utilityworker C (in the Utility Service Department).

These two entry level positions offer excellent opportunities for those with the right skills & competencies, positive work attitudes, and excellent work ethics, to learn new skills while receiving good pay (starting pay is about $17 per hour, plus benefits). To see a list of specific skills/competencies, work attitudes, and work ethics, refer to this pdf poster.

Here is some information about the Plant Specialist C, to give you a general idea of what this job entails:

Position Summary:
- Performs general housekeeping and custodial functions as assigned.
- Performs outdoor yard and grounds maintenance, including lawn care, weed control, general cleanup and trash removal, snow and ice removal etc.
- Stocks various cabinets, dispensers, etc with materials and supplies as required. Performs painting of plant facilities and equipment as assigned.
- Assists with general facility maintenance and operations as assigned.
- Actively participates in hands-on training, required classroom training, and computerbased training programs, as directed by plant management.

Environmental Exposure:
- Works in and around: energized and /or rotating equipment, confined spaces, heights, ladders and scaffolding, noise levels requiring hearing protection, presence of fumes and dust requiring use of respiratory protection.
- Floors are concrete.
- Outdoor work is often on natural mountain terrain, gravel, and wet uneven surfaces, with temperatures ranging from -20 to above 100 degrees F, and altitudes from 6000 to 11,200 feet above sea level.
- Work will include rotating shifts, weekends and holidays and requires overtime.

Minimum Requirements:
1) High school diploma or GED.
2) Must have successfully passed the Edison Electric Institute Power Plant Maintenance and Plant Operator selection exams or be a grandfathered employee.
3) Able to lift up to 50 pounds safely.
4) Must have valid driver’s license.
5) Actively participate in hands-on training, required classroom training and computer interactive training programs, as directed by plant management.
6) Work in inclement weather.
7) Respirator qualification.
8) Will be required to perform duties when necessary from scaffolds and catwalks in high and confined spaces.
9) Must be able to work overtime as required.
10) Applicant is required to successfully pass the Xcel Energy screening requirements, which include a drug test, security clearance and other exams that are required by federal regulations, such as OSHA and DOT, will be performed.
11) Selection criteria may include testing and/or assessment.

Career advancement opportunities are limitless for employees who prove themselves worthy. To see the career progression ladder for each of these positions, open this report from CAEL and go to pages 45 and 46.

You cannot apply for these position until you have successfully passed Xcel Energy's pre-employment tests. The tests are only open when there is a need. You need to monitor Xcel's employment website to determine if/when testing is open, then apply online to take the test. The tests are listed along with all of the other job notices and are called "PSCo Entry Level Power Plant Exam" and "Entry Level Field Ops Exam ".
After applying to take the test, be sure to check your e-mail inbox often (even your "junk" email folder) for a schedule confirmation and testing information.

These tests may be harder than you think! Very few people who take them pass them. Therefore it is HIGHLY recommended that you study in advance.

These tests assess your math ability, reading comprehension, critical thinking, and mechanical aptitude. Sample tests and study guide recommendations are available on Xcel Energy's website. Other methods of test preparation include free CRC-Applied Technology assessments that are similar to these pre-employment tests--and offer training software to help you with any questions you may have missed. Several workforce centers, including Denver's Training & Assessment Center at Speer, administer this free CRC-Applied Technology assessment.

Several weeks after taking the test, you will be notified (likely by e-mail again) of your scores. If you successfully pass the test, then you will need to monitor Xcel Energy's employment website to find out if/when the positions are available and apply online. Be sure to spell check your application, polish your resume, research Xcel Energy, and learn as much as you can about powerplants, to make the best impression possible!

If you don't pass these tests and have difficulty with the CRC-Applied Technology assessment, you may want to consider enrolling in courses to gain a better understanding of the knowledge and skills required to work in this industry. Red Rocks Community College is one of many educational institutions that offer training in Industrial Technology. Watch their 7-minute YouTube video below, or at this link: