Energy Jobs on ConnectingColorado.com

ConnectingColorado.com, a job bank created and maintained by the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment, now has a search feature for Energy jobs!

To see current job openings in Energy, use the Jobseeker's Quick Search feature and select Energy Industry from the list of Industry Specific Jobs (under "Other Criteria" at the bottom of the search form).

Aviation / Airport Jobs

Why, you ask, is such post in this blog? Because, I answer, I have a new assignment at Denver International Airport. Unfortunately, now I won't be able to devote as much time to this energy blog but will continue to update it as much as possible. With over 18,000 blog visitors since its inception, I'm happy to report that interest in Colorado's Energy Careers remains robust and is thriving; I hope to continue helping to inform and make connections.

There's even a connection between Energy and DIA: the airport receives royalties from oil and gas well production on airport property (tapping into the Niobrara play) , as well as its environmental sustainability and three solar installations (learn more by selecting the Green videos at this site or visiting their Environmental page.)

In the meantime, if you're curious about job opportunities at DIA please follow me on Twitter @DIAjobs.

Best wishes to you in your job search!

Barefoot to Bootstraps

A colleague from the State of Colorado has created a great new blog I'd love to share. Not only does it compile her famous "Hiring List" and notices of job fairs from regional workforce center staff and other sources, but it also contains helpful resources for jobseekers: http://barefoot2bootstraps.blogspot.com/

"It's alright to tell a man to lift himself by his bootstraps. But it's a cruel jest to say that to a man with no boots." - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Thank you, Alyse!

SMA Solar plant to bring hundreds of jobs to Denver

Monday, October 26, 2009
Denver Business Journal - by Cathy Proctor

"SMA Solar Technology AG, the world’s largest manufacturer of a critical component in solar power generation, said Monday it will invest about $20 million in its first North American manufacturing plant — in Denver — expected to open in the first half of 2010.

SMA, based in Niestetal, Germany, manufacturers inverters for solar power systems — the device that converts direct current (DC) electricity, produced by the panels, into alternating current (AC) electricity, which can be used by electrical equipment and sent onto the power grid network. SMA holds about 40 percent of the world’s marketshare for solar panel inverters and manufactures equipment for small, residential-sized systems as well as commercial and large, utility-scale systems...

The company surveyed 10 cities in the United States and chose Denver for its first manufacturing plant outside of Germany — specifically about 180,000 square feet of space at 4701 Havana — due to the building’s access to Interstate 70 and nearby railway lines and the skills of the local workforce, officials said...About 300 jobs are expected initially, with the average wage of $30,000. The company expects that as demand for the inverters grows that the number of jobs could grow to 700 at the plant, Urbon said..." [link to full article]

Solar Jobs

So, you want a solar job? Which kind? There are so many different types of solar jobs in Colorado, it's sometimes difficult to choose. If you're mechanically inclined and not afraid of heights, consider working as an installer, electrician, welder, plumber, or pipefitter (if you are afraid of heights, consider a position in manufacturing). If you're creative, outgoing, and persuasive, pursue positions in sales or marketing. If you like to analyze numbers, try bookkeeping, accounting or finance. If science and math are your passion, there are many jobs for scientists and engineers. The list goes on...

Who are the businesses that have these jobs? Here's a list of thirty or so websites (it's by no means all inclusive--there are plenty of solar businesses whose website I have yet to visit). ConnectingColorado.com also lists jobs available in solar, including one as I write this post for a Director of SolarTAC, the 74-acre Solar Technology Acceleration Center scheduled to open in early 2009 south of Denver International Airport near Interstate 70.

For tips on resume writing and interviewing, please read my Jobs on Delicious post.

If you're looking for training information, you should decide which occupation you want to pursue, then find out which schools provide related curricula. Feel free to visit my Schools post for a list of energy-related schools and miscellaneous energy training programs. You can also click on the solar link under my Index (along the right margin) to read other solar-related posts I've included in this blog.

Have a need to fuel your brain? Reference the resources below (provided by NREL) for information about different kinds of solar technologies:

- Concentrating solar power systems: using the sun's heat to produce electricity
- Passive solar heating and daylighting: using solar energy to heat and light buildings
- Photovoltaic (solar cell) systems (PV): producing electricity directly from sunlight
- Solar hot water: heating water with solar energy
- Solar process heat and space heating and cooling: industrial and commercial uses of the sun's heat

- video from NREL's site for more information about research in thin-film PV.

- United States Solar Atlas http://mapserve2.nrel.gov/ (under development)

Transmission

Thanks to the sleepless dedication of inventors, entrepreneurs, and scientist (and their teams of researchers), such as Alessandro Volta, Thomas Edison, and Nikola Tesla (who ironically proved wires are not needed to transfer electricity 1) we have the knowledge, technology, and ability to transmit energy from its source to our homes and businesses. (For a very basic explanation of an Electricity Transmission System, visit this site from the California Energy Commission.)

(photo courtesy of itsray)

However, as our nation's 50-year old infrastructure ages while we continue to increase our energy consumption, our transmission system struggles under increased loads. Additionally, as renewable sources of electricity become more commonplace, and require increasing numbers of connections to the transmission backbone, our system will require newer and increased capacity.

RenewableEnergyWorld.com says, "The U.S. utility industry will have to invest between US $1.5 and US $2 trillion between 2010 and 2030 to maintain current levels of reliable energy service for customers throughout the country...", again, that's $2,000,000,000,000.00.

Having recognized that "Colorado’s current transmission infrastructure is not adequate to meet the increasing electricity demands and the projected growth of wind and solar energy" and "The lack of adequate transmission represents a lost opportunity for early action to connect our vast renewable resources to the electric market while keeping Colorado’s transmission system reliable,"2 a state committee was convened last year to analyze and address these issues and opportunities.

This Clean Energy Development Authority (CEDA) states "Colorado has renewable resources in such abundance that the state can meet the current minimum utility Renewable Energy Standard by tapping a small portion of our total renewable resources." The Task Force assessed these opportunities, and the transmission requirements to bring these resources to market. (this source also has great resource maps and graphs)

Given the attention to this matter, and the fact that nearly half of the workers in the energy industry will be retiring within the decade, one can presume that this opens the door of opportunity for those considering a career in transmission, and not just as an electrical line technician/worker aka, lineman (whose journey level makes about $35/hour + benefits. For more info about being a lineman, click here. BTW, Trinidad State Junior College' Lineman School will have a Job Fair on Friday, December 12, 2008, 9AM - Noon in Colorado Springs, Colorado - click here for more details)

It takes teams of people in a number of different types of jobs to ensure overhead or underground transmission lines and the structures that support them are properly mapped, designed, engineered, licensed, permitted, manufactured, transported, built, connected, inspected, monitored, maintained and repaired.

Colorado employers of transmission-related jobs include:

- Xcel Energy
- Western Area Power Authority
- Tri-State Generation & Transmission
- Platte River Power Authority
- Black Hills Corporations
- Colorado Rural Electric Association, and
- Colorado Springs Utilities

among other power authorities and many, many subcontractors such as Utility Sales and Service in Longmont, CO. Contractors to transmission companies also include firms from the legal, land use, construction, financial, and other industries that support this cluster.

Training providers can vary based on which role on the team inspires you most. There are many opportunities in various occupation groups. For instance, if you prefer IT or mapping then consider training in GIS. However, if you prefer to work with your hands outdoors at great heights, consider training to become a lineman. If you prefer an office environment, public relations, governmental affairs, or business communications, consider telecommunications or public affairs (as a matter of fact, Tri-State G&T is looking for both of these positions as I write this post)

Refer to my schools post for training providers and use your web browser (not the Blogger search box) to Find keywords such as 'GIS' or 'lineman' (sorry, there's no search term for Public Affairs, since almost all colleges/universities teach communications and/or business).

In addition, some of the employers listed above have apprenticeship programs within their own companies, which means they will train you while they pay you. To find those apprenticeship programs that are registered with the U.S. Department of Labor, click on any of the industries listed in the orange or blue area of this website, scroll to the bottom and enter your zip code or state, and click the "Go" sign. (You can also check out my apprenticeships post for general info)

Speaking of great heights (I digress), check out one of my favorite YouTube videos about a lineman at this link, and embedded below:

Job Fairs

The Colorado Department of Labor & Employment maintains a job fair calendar on their website that's updated monthly. Job fairs can be held for one or multiple employers, and some may be energy focused. In fact, Weld County is hosting an 'New Energy Economy & Manufacturing Job Fair' on November 20th, and staffing agency Aerotek, who often hires for energy jobs, will be holding one on November 26th.

For more information about Aerotek's and Weld County's energy job fair, among others, visit their online calendar at: http://www.coworkforce.com/wd/

More events, for both jobseekers and employers, can also be found at:
http://www.e-colorado.org/Calendar.aspx
and http://barefoot2bootstraps.blogspot.com/


Here are some upcoming events which may not yet be listed on these calendars:

• 12/12/08 @ 9am: Trinidad State Junior College Lineman School's Lineman Job Fair in Colorado Springs, Colorado - click here for more details
• 1/12/09 @ 10am: Apprenticeship & Training Fair, 3030 Downing St. Organizations include: Emily Griffith Opportunity School, Colorado Contractors, DJEATC, CITC, Work Options for Women
• 1/21/09 @ 10am: Denver Post & ExpoExpertsLLC.com are holding an Engineering, Technology and Oil & Gas Career Expo - click here for more details
• 3/17/09 @ 3pm: HEXCEL JOB FAIR at Island Grove Regional Park, 425 N. 15th Ave., Greeley, Co. Hexcel Corporation [supplier for Vestas wind energy] is the global leader in developing and manufacturing composite materials for aerospace, wind energy, defense, and commercial applications. The Windsor location supports Vestas by supplying composite material that is used in manufacturing wind turbine blades. The Windsor manufacturing location has immediate openings for Production Operators. Must possess a High School Diploma or GED. Experience working in a manufacturing environment. Ability to work on a team. Demonstrated oral and written communication abilities. Demonstrated self motivation with excellent interpersonal skills. Task and solution orientated. Eligible candidate must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, a person lawfully admitted for permanent residence, a temporary resident under sections 210(a) or 245(A) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, a person admitted in refugee status, or a person granted asylum. Hexcel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants who wish to apply for any Hexcel positions MUST be actively registered with a Workforce Center. If not registered, pre register on line at www.connectingcolorado.com and bring printed registration form to the job fair.
• 3/19/09 @ 1:30pm: Sustainability Career Fair, showcasing companies that develop, install or maintain green products and services, and those that are taking advantage of sustainable operating procedures within their business to reduce both energy and operating costs. More info here
• 4/2/09 (postponed from 1/22/09) @ 1:30pm: Adams County Workforce Center's Energy Job Fair at BELLA SERA EVENT CENTER in Brighton, CO
• 6/30/09 Doubletree Hotel Denver-North, 8773 Yates Dr., Westminster, CO, NECA 25 NECA Electrical Contractors looking for electrical workers.
• 8/10/09 @ 11:00am: Colorado Springs Gazette Engineering, Technology & Security Clearance Career Expo at Antlers Hilton / Colorado Springs, CO, http://www.expoexpertsllc.com/
• 9/9/09 10am-3pm: E-3 Job Fair at Colorado Convention Center, http://www.coworkforce.com/e3/
• 12/10/09 10am-2pm: FirstTransit bus driver job fair, Jefferson County Workforce Center, 3500 Illinois, Golden, CO 80401, 303-271-4560, http://www.jeffcoworkforce.org/seeker_events.php
• 2/16/10 The Denver Post Engineering and Technical Career Fair, Hyatt Regency Tech Center Denver, CO, http://www.expoexpertsllc.com/
  

NREL analyst positions

I was recently included in an e-mail distribution with the following information and am posting it below for qualified individuals who may be interested in applying.

"NREL has a few job openings and we are looking for stellar people to fill them. The first is a senior finance and policy analyst, and the other is to manage the Markets & Policies Impact Analysis Group. The management position would manage staff and provide strategic guidance about NREL's overall market and policy analysis; it is geared for folks that are more senior with management experience). Please forward this to anyone interested in working on analysis of renewable project financing, markets and policies. http://www.nrel.gov/employment/job_openings.html"

NREL is the acronym for National Renewable Energy Laboratory and is located in Golden, Colorado. It is the nation's primary laboratory for renewable energy and energy efficiency research and development. Their primary research facilities include:

- Alternative Fuels Users Facility
- Field Test Laboratory Building
- Outdoor Test Facility
- Science & Technology Facility
- Solar Energy Research Facility
- Solar Furnace
- Solar Radiation Research Laboratory
- Thermal Test Facility

Their website has tons of information about renewable energy and energy efficiency and is a very valuable resource to anyone wanting to learn about this industry.

Solar Panel Installation Courses - FREE

Obtain skills to find a new job or learn to apply your existing skills in one of the fastest growing industries in Colorado. The solar industry is predicting exponential job growth over the next 5 to 10 years. Transfer or upgrade your construction, electrical, plumbing, administrative, business, or development skills to fit the Solar industry! FREE!

The last 2 hours of the course will feature a networking / mini-job fair event where industry members will present on their companies and any training or job openings they have to offer. Industry members will be looking to take graduates for one week working internships that will provide experience out in the field or in the office. This is your chance to learn directly from industry professionals.

Deadline to enroll is 10/24/08

ATTEND A PROGRAM ORIENTATIONAND ENROLLMENT SESSION ON OCTOBER 20TH AT THE JEFFCO WORKFORCE CENTER FROM 5-6PM

This project is funded by a Workforce Innovations in Regional Economic Development (WIRED) grant from the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration, working in partnership with the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment, the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation, and the City and County of Denver’s Office of Economic Development.

Course Description:
This course is designed to provide the participants with a basic understanding of solar power systems, including solar thermal and solar photovoltaic. This course is designed to help trainees obtain experience and a career in the solar energy field.

Course Objective:
The course was designed to deliver key concepts and approaches to evaluating and installing residential solar systems. Participants in the course will be taught technical installation skills as
well as business administration and development skills relating to solar installations.

Certification:
If the participant attends all five days of the course they will receive an OSHA 10-hour Safety Certificate as well as a certificate of completion awarded by all of the program sponsors.

Course Modules include:
• Distinction between Solar Photo Voltaic and Solar Thermal
• Conducting a Site Assessment
• Conducting load analysis for each system
• Explanation of all equipment and procedures for Solar PV installation
• Basic Math for Solar PV Electron Flow
• Understanding the solar cell
• Basic Electricity and Electrical Theory
• Electrical Wiring Skills Training
• Explanation of all equipment and procedures for Solar Thermal installation
• Basic Math required for Solar Thermal Water Flow
• PV & Thermal Hands-ON Workshops
• Basic Contracting & Subcontracting
• Identifying Career Paths and Training Opportunities.
• OSHA 10 Hour Safety Course

Upon completion the participant will:
• Know the history of solar energy and recent advances
• Understand the economics of solar installations
• Understand basic benefits of solar energy
• Understand key concepts of passive solar energy
• Know the basics of how solar PV and Thermal works
• Understanding key issues of “off grid” versus “grid-tied” solar
• Know the basics of electricity as it relates to solar PV
• Know the basics of plumbing and water flow as it relates to solar thermal.
• Know how to use all key equipment necessary for solar installations
• Understand the basics of solar thermal wiring and plumbing
• Know basic roofing issues related to solar installations
• Understand employer and customer expectations
• Understand the basic elements of marketing solar installations

November 3rd—7th, 2008
Located at the DJEATC Training Facility
1291 E. 54th Ave, Unit D, Denver, CO 80216

To enroll in this FREE course:

• Register yourself online at http://www.connectingcolorado.com/

THEN
• Fill out your enrollment forms at the iCAST office on
8745 W. 14th Ave., Suite 220, Lakewood, CO 80215 (between Carr St. & Garrison St.)

OR
• Fill out your enrollment forms at the Jefferson County Workforce Center
Laramie Building, 3500 Illinois St., Golden, CO 80401

• Bring a valid state or federal ID and social security card.

For more information contact:
Mark Palmer-WIRED Project Manager, (720) 212-7832, Mark@iCASTUSA.ORG
http://www.icastusa.org/

Vestas is Hiring!

SOS STAFFING / SOS PROFESSIONAL

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
September 29, 2008

VESTAS NACELLES, BRIGHTON KICKS OFF HIRING WITH CAREER AND INFORMATION FORUM
Brighton, CO, September 29, 2008 - Vestas Wind Systems, A/S the world's leading producer of high-tech wind power systems, kicks off its search for the best employees for their new Nacelles facility being built in Brighton, CO. In August 2008, Vestas announced plans to further expand its U.S. presence by establishing a Nacelle assembly factory [a nacelle is the housing around the electrical generator], and Blade factory in Brighton, Colorado. The Nacelle factory, where vital components of the turbine will be assembled, marks the first Vestas nacelle factory in the U.S.

Vestas has partnered with SOS Professional Search and SOS Staffing to recruit and place the personnel required to staff Vestas’ entire production facility. From the core management team to hourly production positions, hiring will soon begin for people who want to be a part of Vestas and work for an industry leader. All positions being filled for Vestas are direct hire, full-time, benefited positions, candidates with the abilities, drive and desire to succeed are strongly encouraged to apply.

Vestas, in partnership with SOS Professional and SOS Staffing will kick off a Career and Information Forum on Wednesday, October 22, 2008 at The Adams County Fairgrounds, 9755 Henderson Road in Brighton, Colorado. The Career and Information Forum will provide three separate sessions held in the Exhibit Hall. The first session will be from 8-10 am, second from 12pm – 2pm and the third session from 6-8 pm. There will be Vestas representatives onsite all day from 8am to 8pm to answer questions and provide information. If you are interested in a career with Vestas, please visit http://www.sosstaffing.com/, click on the "WORK AT VESTAS" link to submit resume or application.

For more information:
- Please call your local SOS Staffing Branch Office
- Visit http://www.sosstaffing.com/ to apply online
- Email vestasnac@sosstaffing.com to get updates on current application status.

Government jobs in energy

The private sector is not the only sector that employs people for jobs in energy. The public sector (government) is one of the major employers in this industry. My job, for example, is a local government job that devotes half of my time to energy (the other half to ICT--Information & Communications Technology--and sometimes they overlap).

Here's a partial list of governmental entities, in addition to local/state/federal legislators and their aides, that employ people for energy jobs, whether these jobs focus solely, or only in part, on energy:

Local government:
City of Denver
- Asset Management (energy efficiency in Denver municipal buildings, LEED accredited architects)
- Mayor's Greenprint Denver Office
- Public Office Buildings (HVAC technicians, electricians)
- Building Department (electrician, plumbing & HVAC inspectors and chief inspectors)
- Economic Development (policy analysts, various positions that focus on energy and green jobs)
- Solid Waste/Denver Recycles
- Environmental Health
- Aviation (yes, DIA; inspectors, mechanics, solar project managers, energy efficiency)

State government:
- Governor's Energy Office
- Colorado Oil & Gas Commission (note: they'll be hiring many more positions soon -- see "upcoming job opportunities" notice on their website for more information)
- Colorado Department of Labor & Employment
- Department of Natural Resources
- Department of Regulatory Agencies (including the Public Utilities Commission)
- Colorado Schools of Mines (yes, these are state jobs)
- Colorado State University
- University of Colorado

Federal government:
- Bureau of Land Management
- National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
- Department of Energy (DOE)
- Energy Information Administration (EIA)
- U.S. Department of Labor (DOL)
- Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)
- Department of the Interior (Bureau of Reclamation and Minerals Management Service)

The New Power Jobs

A colleague recently forwarded an article to me about careers in power (which I've reprinted here in part with permission from Yahoo! HotJobs). In her article, author Heather Boerner discusses several of the high-demand occupations in the power industry (engineers, operators, mechanics, trade workers), as well as their salary ranges and minimum requirements--most appropriate information for this blog. Here's her article, The New Power Jobs:

"White-hot jobs are opening up in the power sector. 'These aren't just hot jobs, they're sizzling jobs,' said Christine Real de Azua, spokeswoman for the American Wind Energy Association. Wind energy grew by 45 percent last year. 'We need every type of job candidate.'

Indeed, with oil topping $100 per barrel, expect power industry jobs to explode in the next 10 years -- and not just in petroleum or the electric company. Want to repair wind turbines, manage a nuclear reactor or install solar panels? The jobs await.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and energy leaders reveal what fields are expected to grow, and they are listed below with projected growth levels through 2016, salary data, and what you need to get a related job..." [read the remainder of the article here]

Halliburton Internship

I ran across a blog today written by a Halliburton Intern I thought would be useful to share with you: http://halhr.blogspot.com/. It's author (thanks Eric!) provides valuable information and photos about the work that's performed at Halliburton. He also discusses turnover rates in the industry and plans to study how to minimize it, particularly in light of the pending mass retirements of Baby Boomers forecasted.

Allow me to step up onto my soapbox. There are a variety of reasons for high turnover. Many times it's attributable to lack of clear objectives and goals about the job. Sometimes, applicants may become so enthralled by the high pay, they may lose focus that they actually have to work for it. In an effort to recruit employees, sometimes companies focus only on the attractive aspects of the job. Other times communication (or lack thereof) is the culprit, particularly in this day and age when we have many different cultures and generations (Baby Boomers, GenX, GenY, Millennials) with different communication techniques, life priorities, and/or work ethics, working along side one another.

With respect to entry level field jobs in oil & gas, I want to communicate that they pay very well (salaries in this industry generally pay about 35% more than average salaries in other industries). Why, you ask? Because it's hard work! Although some rig crews can get on a flex-schedule (such as two weeks on, two weeks off), they're working at least 12-hours shifts (or more) every day for those two weeks, in extreme weather, lifting heavy loads, in the middle of nowhere. It really is much more difficult than it sounds.

If you cannot withstand starting your day punctually before the sun rises, like 3:00 am, traveling to a well pad that's hundreds (or thousands--perhaps overseas) of miles away from your family, a city, or the nearest 7-11 convenience store; living in temporary housing with your crew, getting dirty, hearing profanity, getting yelled at (or fired) for making mistakes that jeopardizes safety, effectively communicating and getting along with others, and lifting hundreds of pounds consistently for weeks on end, in a drug-free environment, then I'm sorry to inform you that these jobs are definitely not for you, so please don't contribute to the turnover rate.

However, if you are certain you have the brawn, brains, thick-skin, drive, stamina, and desire to learn, you're a hot commodity in this industry, will be well compensated, and could move up the career ladder quickly, perhaps up to a tool pusher who makes around $95,000 / year. If you're real good, the E&P companies that employ the contractor you're working for could also recruit you to become a "company man".

If you're unsure whether this oilfield work is for you, consider trying it on a temporary basis. Several employment agencies offer temp positions in oilfield work. They include SOS Staffing, Aerotek, and Weststaff, among many others, and often post their positions in ConnectingColorado.

I hope this helps to clarify some of the objectives for those of you considering embarking on these occupations.

Photo courtesy of Jerry Brown

Free courses in Energy Efficiency & Solar Installation

iCAST will be offering training courses for its WIRED workforce development program later this year. These courses target the unemployed or incumbent worker who is seeking entry into the energy efficiency or solar industries. These courses are free to anyone enrolled with their Colorado workforce center.

a. The Energy Efficiency Auditor course is scheduled for September 22nd thru the 26th 2008.
b. The Solar Installation course is scheduled for November 3rd thru the 7th 2008.
c. The Energy Efficiency Technology Installation course is scheduled for December 1st thru the 5th 2008.

These courses will provide firsthand understanding of the energy efficiency and solar industries, along with the terminology, skills and technological experience to become an assistant energy auditor/installer or solar installer. Interested participants must first enroll with ConnectingColorado.com and their local workforce center or can contact Mark Palmer at mark@icastusa.org for further information.

E3 Job Fair 9/25/08 in Denver

The 7th Annual E3 Job Fair will be held at the Colorado Convention Center in downtown Denver on Thursday, September 25, 2008 from 11am to 5pm. This year, Energy will be highlighted as one of the high-growth industries.

The energy industry employs: engineers (electrical, petroleum, reservoir, mechanical, civil, etc.), scientists (all disciplines), technicians, environmental health and safety staff, accountants, administrative assistants, managers, marketing & PR representatives, HR staff, graphic designers, salespeople, real estate professionals/landmen, IT & GIS staff , security guards, roustabouts, roughnecks, gang pushers, solar installers, drillers, energy auditors, linemen, wind technicians, welders, pipefitters, mechanics, equipment operators and more! See a video from 9News of last year's E3 job fair here.

Jobseekers must be registered in Colorado Department of Labor & Employment's free job bank ConnectingColorado in order to attend. They should also prepare well in advance to meet energy employers by:

- researching the companies in advance to learn of their goals, priorities, etc. and reviewing their job listings
- asking a trusted friend, family member, mentor or career advisor to critique their resume -- jobseekers can ask workforce advisors at their local workforce center to critique their resume
- triple checking resumes for grammatical and spelling errors
- tailoring resumes to reflect what they can do for that specific company (versus what the company can do for them) - also have properly formatted electronic versions available to post or cut & paste on companies' employment/HRIS websites
- make sure email address on resumes are professional (not something like "ISleepInEveryDay@...", and check to make sure phone voice mail greetings are professional as well (i.e., don't record any long songs that will make a busy recruiter hang up instead of leaving a message)
- dressing appropriately
- watching the videos in the "Job links" post, and this one-minute "Job Fair Video"
- following up with the employer after the fair

More information about the E3 Job Fair, including a list of over 100 participating employers, will soon be available on CDLE's E3 website.

Participating Energy employers, training providers, and related organizations include:

- Aerotek
- Ascent Solar Technologies Inc.
- AVA Solar
- Baker Hughes
- Center for Transportation Safety
- CoorsTek
- DCP Midstream
- Ensign United States Drilling
- Environmental Protection Agency
- GE Wind Energy
- Independent Electrical Contractors, Inc
- Key Energy
- National Renewable Energy Laboratory
- Petroleum Field Services
- Pioneer Natural Resources
- Pipefitters Local 208
- PrimeStar Solar
- Red Rocks Community College-Industrial Science & Operations
- SolSource
- SOS Staffing
- Tri-State Generation & Transmission
- Ulteig Engineers
- Western Area Power Administration
- Xcel Energy

Additional Energy career fairs and expos are scheduled throughout the state of Colorado this summer and fall. Refer to this poster, or my Job Fairs post for a list of dates and locations.

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.

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

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:

Job links on Del.icio.us

Del.icio.us is a software program that allows you to bookmark all of your favorite websites and share the list over the Internet.

In researching the energy industry for the past year, I've come across numerous companies' websites which I've been collecting and categorizing into various "tags" such as green-jobs, extraction-jobs, news, information, etc.

Some of the smaller, independent extraction companies near the oil & gas basins that serve as sub-contractors to the large energy firms frequently hire entry level field positions. However, they generally do not have their own websites. They mostly post jobs with their local workforce centers, in the paper, or use word of mouth/employee referrals. Many of them are listed in Don's Directory, which charges a fee for their hard copy and access to their online directory.

As you may already know, looking for work is a job in and of itself. This list merely does some of the research leg-work for you. Unless you're extremely lucky, brilliant, or know someone (networking is one of the best ways to look for work - many energy companies offer bonuses to their employees for referring qualified candidates), companies aren't going to be knocking down your door begging you to come to work for them.

In preparation for your job search:
- Be sure to have family or friends you trust, or a career advisor, critique your resume--one that reveals what you can do for the company (versus what you want the company to do for you)
- Write a cover letter tailored to the company to which you're applying, indicating how well you know the company based on the research you've conducted about them.
- Practice mock interviews and answer behavioral questions or those which may seem out of the ordinary (for example, "what was your greatest occupational ch allege and how did you deal with it?", or "if you were a geometric shape, which would you be and why?")

If you do make it to the interview phase, be sure to watch the videos (link below) in advance, be on time (or early), dress appropriately, and bring extra copies of your resume.

Here is a link to some very informative videos of interviews with oil & gas recruiters to help you in your energy job search, guide you in preparing for interviews, and provide resume advice: http://www.pennenergyjobs.com/video/

Below are a couple links to general videos about resume writing, preparation, and interviewing. Though the information contained in these videos may seem to be common sense, it's a great refresher if you haven't interviewed for a job in a while -- and don't forget to send a thank you note to those you've interviewed with! Here are the links:

- http://fordeop.com/v3/site/page72.html
- http://www.collegegrad.com/videos/