Yes, natural gas distribution is a good career path. Most individuals who want to switch or advance their career often ponder if the natural gas industry is a good career path.

Here lies the truth, the natural gas industry has a wide range of professions and offers a variety of career options.

Similarly, natural gas is becoming an increasingly common energy source as fuel, whereas oil and coal are losing their once-dominant positions.

Working in this industry can be a beneficial career choice because of the high-salary positions.

So, yes to those asking; natural gas distribution is a good career path.

If you are curious as to why is natural gas distribution a good career path. Keep reading, you will find the answers to the questions.

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What is Natural Gas Distribution?

Natural gas distribution means the distribution pipelines and metering and regulating equipment at metering-regulating stations that are operated by a Local Distribution Company within a single state that is regulated as a separate operating company by a public utility commission or that is operated as an independent.

In the same way, natural gas distribution is the pipelines or channels used to export natural gas.

Meanwhile, it is usually operated by a local distribution company in a state which a utility commission further regulates.

Natural gas distribution is the last step in ensuring that natural gas gets to the customers. The local distribution companies move or transport the natural gas through pipelines to consumers through a small-diameter distribution pipe.

Above all, we refer to the point or area where the natural is moved from a transmission pipeline to the delivery point where the natural gas is transferred from a transmission pipeline to the local gas utility as Citygate.

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Examples of Natural Distribution Industries

Natural gas distribution industries include:

China National Petroleum/PetroChina

The largest natural gas producer in China is China National Petroleum (CNPC). As of December 31, 2020, it stated that China produced 130.6 billion cubic meters of natural gas annually.

Additionally, CNPC has substantial operations for the production of oil, petrochemicals, and oil and gas.

CNPC is a state-owned firm, although a large portion of its operations is managed by PetroChina Company, a subsidiary that is publicly traded (PTR).

Also, the NYSE, the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, and the Shanghai Stock Exchange all list PetroChina shares.

Similarly, Petrochina operates in the oil and natural gas industries, conducting operations in exploration, production, storage, and marketing.

However, PetroChina was the second-largest oil and gas corporation in the world in 2020 with revenues of $299 billion. Its market capitalization is $139 billion.

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Saudi Arabian Oil Co. (Saudi Aramco)

Generally, the second-largest natural gas firm in the world is Saudi Aramco. The firm had 31 million barrels of natural gas reserves as of 2020.

However, one of the world’s most profitable businesses, with $205 billion in revenue and $41 billion in net profits for 2020.

The business is Saudi Arabia’s sole supplier of natural gas and oil, making it the largest oil producer in the world.

Nonetheless, in 2018, the oil and gas sector in Saudi Arabia accounted for 50% of the national GDP. The market value of the business is $1.86 trillion.

BP

Global energy juggernaut BP (BP), with its headquarters in London, has extensive operations that cover the entire oil and gas supply chain.

So, the business estimated that in 2020, natural gas production would be at 7.9 billion cubic feet per day.

Therefore, BP operates major natural gas production sites around the globe, from the Americas to the Middle East to Southeast Asia.

It also has substantial worldwide oil exploration and production operations, in addition to petrochemical, lubricant, and retail gasoline businesses.

The company had 2020 revenues of $183.5 billion and has a market capitalization of $82 billion

ExxonMobil

In 2020, ExxonMobil produced 8.5 trillion cubic feet of natural gas per day, the least amount in the previous seven years and a continuation of a downward trend.

However, based on revenue, it is the biggest oil and gas business in the US.

Similarly, the company had 2020 revenues of $181.5 billion and has a market capitalization of $228.5 billion

Royal Dutch Shell

2.79 trillion standard cubic feet of natural gas were produced in 2020, according to Royal Dutch Shell, also known as Shell Global, with 838 billion standard cubic feet originating from Asia.

The business’s natural gas operations span the entire world.

Royal Dutch Shell also engages in extensive crude oil exploration and production, as well as downstream businesses like refineries, petrochemical plants, and retail service stations.

These activities are in addition to its natural gas operations. With its corporate headquarters in the Netherlands and its incorporation in the UK, Royal Dutch Shell.

With a market valuation of $153 billion, the corporation generated $180.5 billion in revenue in 2020.

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Chevron

In accordance with the company’s production levels in prior years, American integrated energy giant Chevron reported daily natural gas production of roughly 5.7 billion cubic feet per day in 2020.

Therefore, major natural gas fields are managed by corporations all over the world, including locations in Asia, Australia, Africa, Europe, Latin America, and North America.

What Do People Working in Natural Gas Distribution Do?

Considering the fact there are a variety of jobs in the natural gas distribution, people in this industry perform several distinct responsibilities.

On this note, natural gas distribution employs a wide range of professionals, from engineers to accountants to sales personnel to general overseers of operations.

In other words, there are several employment opportunities in this sector.

Consequently, there are tons of career paths you can choose to settle for in this industry.

What Does a Gas Distribution Engineer Do?

Although there are many different employment positions in the industry, engineering positions tend to be in high demand. And as a result, inquiries about the duties of a natural gas distribution engineer are constant.

They play a significant part in the simple transfer of oil and gas to the ultimate customers because they usually design piping works and mains.

Moreover, they are in charge of maintaining safety, protecting the environment, and maximizing profit margins.

Regulation of Natural Gas Distribution

Local utilities are natural monopolies and they have the right to dispense natural gas within a specific area. Likewise, they carry out services like billing and safety inspection.

On the flip side, these distribution companies are regulated to prevent abuse and also prevent consumers from falling victim to insufficiency in delivery systems.

The National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC) is the regulatory body. On the other hand. regulation of local natural gas utilities is carried out by state public utility commissions.

Also, state regulations carry out responsibilities such as rational consumer prices, adequate supply of natural gas, and reliable services. They equally approve installation sites and supervise the construction of the latest distribution networks.

Some states in the U.S. run programs that allow customers to choose from a pool of suppliers they can acquire the petroleum extracts. The regulatory body has put in place customers’ choice programs in about 20 states.

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What are the Benefits of Working In The Natural Gas Distribution Industry?

Good Pay 

Natural gas distribution is a reliable job with respectable income potential. The field is quite lucrative.

Job Opportunities 

The natural gas distribution industry employs many people across the United States. According to the Bureau of Labour Estimate, over 100,000 people were employed by the natural gas distribution industry in 2019. 

Jobs in the natural gas distribution industry are spread out across various positions, from entry-level to management-level roles.

In recent years, these jobs are expected to grow as demand for gas increases.

Work-life Balance

The distribution of natural gas is a labor-intensive business. To allow time for family and friends, the sector has controlled each worker’s working hours.

Career Advancement Opportunities

The natural gas distribution industry offers her worker’s career growth opportunities. 

Workers with higher diploma certificates are usually allowed to work their way to the top. 

So long as you have the zeal and commitment, the industry is ready to invest in you.

A Stable Industry 

The natural gas distribution industry has been a stable industry for many years. The demand for natural gas has remained consistent, and the infrastructure needed to distribute natural gas is well established. 

Also, natural gas is relatively affordable compared to other forms of energy. It has a low price point which helps to keep prices stable.

In addition, Natural gas produces significantly lower emissions than other forms of energy, making it a more environmentally friendly option. 

As awareness of climate change grows, more people are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint, and switching to natural gas is one way.

This stability has attracted new investors and allowed the industry to grow.

Skills Required for Natural Gas Distribution Jobs

In desiring a career in this industry, you should know what the requirements entail. Every field or industry has certain qualifications and skills they look out for before bringing employees onboard.

If you want to pursue a career in natural gas distribution, then you have to consider the skills the following skills:

• Communication skills
• Creative Thinking
• Analytical skills
• Problem-solving
• Information technology (IT) skills
• Ability to work under pressure
• Leadership skills
• Interpersonal skills
• Project Management skills
• Multitasking
• Ability to work with a team
• Flexibility

Consequently, acquiring these skills will prepare you for the tasks ahead.

What Degrees/Certifications are Required for a Career in this Natural Gas Distribution?

If you aim to secure a job in the natural gas distribution industry, you should consider the following degrees and certifications:

Degrees

• Engineering
• Geology
• Project management

Certifications

• American National Standards Institute
• Risk Management
• Piping and instrumentation diagram (P&ID)

Can I Get a Job in the Natural Gas Distributtion Industry With No Prior Experience?

Yes, you can secure a job in natural gas distribution with no prior experience.

While there are suitable jobs for people with no prior experience in this sector, it is advisable to get a degree, enroll in a vocational educational program, internship, or a blend of everything.

Is Natural Gas Distribution a Good Career Path?

Yes, the natural gas distribution industry is a good place to pick a career path. There are enough jobs there and the demand for workers is very high.

Although jobs there can sometimes be very tasking as you will need to work under harsh conditions and take long shifts, you can be sure the jobs are highly rewarding. 

Most jobs there pay well and there is security for your job. Oil and gas are not going anywhere, so if you have a love for the sector, it’s time to get your boots ready because you will be getting your feet dirty in the oil soon. Quit asking, is natural gas distribution a good career path? Just go for it! 

What Are the Top Producing Natural Gas States in the U.S.?

The following are the top five natural gas-producing states in 2019:

• Texas (23.9%)
• Pennsylvania (20.0%)
• Louisiana (9.3%)
• Oklahoma (8.5%)
• Ohio (7.7%)

The figures above totaled 69.4% of U.S. natural gas production.

What are the Job Prospects for Natural Gas Distribution?

From the start of 2007 through the end of 2012, total U.S. private sector employment increased by more than one million jobs, about 1%.

Over the same period, the oil and natural gas industry increased by more than 162,000 jobs, a 40% increase.

The Labor Department’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) accounts for oil and natural gas industry employment in three categories: drilling, extraction, and support.

About half of the workers employed in crude oil and natural gas production area in the support category of oil and natural gas industry employment, and employment in this category accounted for the bulk of the increases seen in oil and gas industry employment.

Combined, the three industry categories equal just one-half of one percent of total U.S. private sector employment.

Both the support and drilling industries were heavily affected by the recession, but these industries have recovered quickly, suffering only minor effects from the temporary moratorium on offshore drilling as a result of the Deepwater Horizon spill in 2010.

Between January 2007 and December 2012, monthly crude oil production increased by 39%, and monthly natural gas production increased by 25% (see chart below).

Employment in the oil and gas drilling, extraction, and support industries continues to contribute to overall private sector employment as the U.S. economy recovers from the 2007-09 recession.

A recent TIE article reviews the experience of North Dakota, which has seen significant gains in real gross domestic product per capita, coinciding with the development of the Bakken shale play.

How Much Can You Make From this Field? Is Natural Gas Distribution a Good Career Path

As of Jun 24, 2022, the average annual pay for a Natural Gas Distribution in the United States is $96,441 a year.

Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $46.37 an hour. This is the equivalent of $1,855/week or $8,037/month.

While ZipRecruiter is seeing annual salaries as high as $182,000 and as low as $22,500, the majority of Natural Gas Distribution salaries currently range between $54,000 (25th percentile) to $134,000 (75th percentile) with top earners (90th percentile) making $168,500 annually across the United States.

The average pay range for a Natural Gas Distribution varies greatly (by as much as $80,000), which suggests there may be many opportunities for advancement and increased pay based on skill level, location, and years of experience.

What Should I Consider while Choosing a Career in Natural Distribution?

When considering a career in the natural gas distribution industry, you need to consider one major factor – salary.

Salary, in most cases, is the primary area of focus for job seekers. Therefore, if you fall within this category, do yourself a favor by looking into how many figures you’ll earn in that profession.

10 High Paying Jobs in the Natural Gas Distribution Industry

1. Project Manager

Average Annual Salary: $134,903 (salary.com)

This is one of the best-paying jobs in natural gas distribution. This employee is in charge of projects and ensures that they go according to specifications.

In overseeing projects, he makes sure the project is on track and works with the budget while being conscious of safety practices.

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2. Drilling Supervisor

Average Annual Salary: $121,979 (Zippia)

This employee handles the drill operation. Therefore, he ensures that his teammates complete the project on time. Similarly, he also oversees operations on site

3. Reservoir Engineer

Average Annual Salary: $162,101 (salary.com)

These employees are also referred to as Pipeline or Petroleum Engineer. Moreover, this set of people optimizes the movement of crude oil extracts.

In other words, they carry out tasks such as identification and evaluation of the oil and gas reserves. Furthermore, they do this with the use of certain equipment, as well as monitoring the drilling procedure.

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4. Drilling Engineer

Average Annual Salary: $262,679 (salary.com)

This member of staff is in charge of rig employees. Also, he assesses and maintains the wells and makes sure employees follow safety rules.

Additionally, he oversees the technical and financial aspects of the project.

5. Natural Gas Engineer

Average Annual Salary: $135,188 (comparably)

also, these people are in charge of the development, installation, and maintenance of the equipment as needed to process the oil and gas.

Also, they ensure reliability, sustainability, quality, and safety.

6. HSE Manager

Average Annual Salary: $100,723 (Salary.com)

Generally, Health, Safety, and Environment Managers ensure the occupational health, safety, and environmental operation of petroleum gas in their onshore and offshore sites.

Additionally, HSE Managers plan managerial policies on safety, inquire into incidents in the work environment, and coordinate training schedules.

7. Project Engineer

Average Annual Salary: $82,006 (Indeed)

These employees always make sure that procedures such as design, construction, and every other thing are done safely. Nevertheless, he carries out these tasks while working alongside the budget.

Furthermore, they review reports and also effect changes in construction and communicate all of it to the stakeholders.

Conclusion

The best career path for natural gas distribution depends on individual interests, skills, and experience.

However, some industry professionals believe that a career in natural gas distribution could be a good choice for someone who is interested in working in a fast-paced and challenging industry.

Similarly, the best way to find out if a career in natural gas distribution is right for you is to explore your options and see what opportunities are available to you.

Whether you are looking to pursue a career in gas distribution or are just curious about the industry, this blog post is for you.

Thanks for reading!

Frequently Asked Questions on is natural gas distribution a good career path

What is natural gas distribution?

Natural gas distribution is the distribution channel used in exporting crude oil.

Where does my natural gas come from?

Your natural gas is produced in the onshore and offshore natural gas wells which are then distributed through pipelines for it to get to you, the end-user.

What skills are required for jobs in natural gas distribution?

The following skills are necessary for jobs in natural gas distribution are:

• Communication skills
• Creative Thinking
• Analytical skills
• Problem-solving
• Information technology (IT) skills
• Ability to work under pressure
• Leadership skills
• Interpersonal skills
• Project Management skills
• Multitasking
• Ability to work with a team
• Flexibility

What are the employee benefits of natural gas distribution jobs?

Employee benefits range from insurance, health, vacation, retirement, and parenting.

What is natural gas distribution?

Natural gas distribution is the distribution channel used in exporting crude oil.

Where does my natural gas come from?

Your natural gas is produced in the onshore and offshore natural gas wells which are then distributed through pipelines for it to get to you, the end-user.

What skills are required for jobs in natural gas distribution?

The following skills are necessary for jobs in natural gas distribution are:

• Communication skills
• Creative Thinking
• Analytical skills
• Problem-solving
• Information technology (IT) skills
• Ability to work under pressure
• Leadership skills
• Interpersonal skills
• Project Management skills
• Multitasking
• Ability to work with a team
• Flexibility

What are the employee benefits of natural gas distribution jobs?

Employee benefits range from insurance, health, vacation, retirement, and parenting.

References

• energyjobshop.com– The 8 Best Paying Jobs in the Natural Gas Distribution Industry
• ziprecruiter.com– Natural Gas Distribution Salary

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