Spain plays a significant role in the oil and gas industry, with established infrastructure for refining, storage, and distribution. This creates opportunities across multiple stages of the value chain.
The industry in Spain is supported by multinational corporations and local companies, offering professionals access to training, international exposure, and advancement opportunities.
Spain’s oil and gas sector increasingly integrates renewable energy and advanced technologies, allowing professionals to contribute to innovation and sustainability within the industry.
Spain’s geographic position makes it a key energy hub between Europe, Africa, and the Americas. This enhances its importance in global trade and logistics within the oil and gas sector.
Working in the oil and gas industry in Spain can provide attractive salary packages and benefits, reflecting the technical expertise and responsibilities required.
The sector brings together experts from engineering, geology, finance, and project management, creating a collaborative and multidisciplinary workplace.
Spain’s oil and gas sector attracts international talent due to its strong energy infrastructure and strategic role in Europe, making it a stepping stone for global career opportunities.
International candidates benefit from working in multicultural teams where diverse perspectives drive innovation and enhance problem-solving approaches.
Spain is integrating cleaner technologies and renewable practices into its oil and gas operations, offering international professionals a chance to work on forward-thinking, sustainable projects.
Companies in Spain often provide international candidates with specialized training, language support, and professional development programs to ensure smooth career growth.
Spain’s strategic location as a hub between Europe, Africa, and the Americas creates valuable networking opportunities with key players in the global energy market.
Alongside career advancement, international professionals can enjoy Spain’s rich culture, lifestyle, and quality of life, making the experience both rewarding and balanced.
Spain does not have significant domestic crude oil production, so it relies heavily on imports. The country has well-developed refining facilities, with major refineries in regions such as Cartagena, Bilbao, and Tarragona.
Spain is one of Europe’s largest importers of natural gas, primarily in the form of liquefied natural gas (LNG). It operates several LNG regasification terminals, giving it a strategic role in European energy security.
While limited, there have been small-scale exploration activities onshore and offshore. Most projects are in early stages or exploratory, with modest production compared to imports.
Spain produces and exports refined petroleum products such as diesel, gasoline, jet fuel, and petrochemicals, thanks to its advanced refining sector.
Underground storage facilities and a strong pipeline network allow Spain to distribute natural gas across the country and support regional energy needs.
The oil and gas sector in Spain is increasingly investing in renewable projects, carbon capture, and green hydrogen, blending traditional energy with sustainable solutions.
Job Profile |
Avg. Salary (EUR/Year) |
Avg. Salary (USD/Year) |
Avg. Salary (INR/Year) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Petroleum Engineer |
€55,000 |
$59,950 |
₹49,50,000 |
|
Reservoir Engineer |
€60,000 |
$65,400 |
₹54,00,000 |
|
Drilling Engineer |
€58,000 |
$63,220 |
₹52,20,000 |
|
Geologist / Geophysicist |
€50,000 |
$54,500 |
₹45,00,000 |
|
Production Engineer |
€53,000 |
$57,770 |
₹47,70,000 |
|
HSE (Health, Safety & Env.) Mgr |
€48,000 |
$52,320 |
₹43,20,000 |
|
Process Engineer |
€46,000 |
$50,140 |
₹41,40,000 |
|
Mechanical Engineer |
€45,000 |
$49,050 |
₹40,50,000 |
|
Electrical Engineer |
€44,000 |
$47,960 |
₹39,60,000 |
|
Instrumentation Engineer |
€43,000 |
$46,870 |
₹38,70,000 |
|
Project Manager |
€65,000 |
$70,850 |
₹58,50,000 |
|
Operations Manager |
€62,000 |
$67,580 |
₹55,80,000 |
|
Maintenance Engineer |
€42,000 |
$45,780 |
₹37,80,000 |
|
Pipeline Engineer |
€47,000 |
$51,230 |
₹42,30,000 |
|
LNG Specialist |
€61,000 |
$66,490 |
₹54,90,000 |
|
Offshore Engineer |
€56,000 |
$61,040 |
₹50,40,000 |
|
Refinery Operator |
€38,000 |
$41,420 |
₹34,20,000 |
|
Petroleum Economist |
€57,000 |
$62,130 |
₹51,30,000 |
|
Supply Chain/Logistics Manager |
€52,000 |
$56,680 |
₹46,80,000 |
|
Energy Analyst |
€41,000 |
$44,690 |
₹36,90,000 |
Eligibility Criteria |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Educational Qualification |
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering (Petroleum, Mechanical, Chemical, Civil, Electrical), Geosciences, or related technical fields. Specialized diplomas or certifications (e.g., HSE, Project Management, Offshore Engineering) are often required. |
|
Work Experience |
2–10+ years of relevant oil & gas industry experience depending on the role (entry-level vs. senior positions). Prior international or offshore project experience is highly valued. |
|
Language Requirement |
Proficiency in English is essential. Knowledge of Spanish is highly preferred (and sometimes mandatory) for client-facing or on-site roles. |
|
Work Permits & Visa |
Non-EU citizens require a valid work visa and job sponsorship from a Spanish employer. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens can work without a visa. |
|
Professional Certifications |
Industry-recognized certifications (e.g., IWCF, NEBOSH, API, PMP, HAZOP, LNG operations) give candidates a competitive edge. |
|
Health & Safety Compliance |
Must meet physical fitness and safety standards, especially for offshore and field jobs. HSE training and certification may be required. |
|
Technical Skills |
Knowledge of drilling operations, reservoir management, refining processes, LNG handling, pipeline engineering, or project management tools depending on job profile. |
|
Soft Skills |
Strong communication, problem-solving, adaptability, and cross-cultural teamwork skills are critical in international projects. |
|
Legal & Background Checks |
Applicants must provide a clean background check and valid documents (passport, degree recognition, etc.). |
|
Recognition of Qualifications |
Non-EU degrees may require official recognition/validation in Spain (known as Homologación). |
Job Profile |
General Roles & Responsibilities |
|---|---|
|
Petroleum Engineer |
Design and develop methods for extracting oil and gas; optimize recovery and production processes. |
|
Reservoir Engineer |
Analyze reservoirs, estimate reserves, and design strategies for efficient extraction. |
|
Drilling Engineer |
Plan and execute drilling operations; ensure safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. |
|
Geologist / Geophysicist |
Study rock formations and subsurface structures to locate oil and gas reserves. |
|
Production Engineer |
Manage production systems; monitor output and improve well performance. |
|
Process Engineer |
Design and optimize refining, gas processing, and petrochemical processes. |
|
Mechanical Engineer |
Maintain and design mechanical systems for drilling rigs, refineries, and pipelines. |
|
Electrical Engineer |
Oversee electrical systems in refineries, offshore platforms, and LNG plants. |
|
Instrumentation Engineer |
Design, install, and maintain control systems for monitoring oil & gas operations. |
|
Pipeline Engineer |
Plan, design, and maintain oil and gas pipeline networks for safe transportation. |
|
HSE (Health, Safety & Environment) Manager |
Ensure compliance with safety regulations, conduct audits, and manage risk prevention programs. |
|
Project Manager |
Lead projects (exploration, drilling, or refining); manage budgets, schedules, and teams. |
|
Operations Manager |
Oversee daily production and facility operations; ensure efficiency and compliance. |
|
Maintenance Engineer |
Plan and execute preventive and corrective maintenance for equipment and facilities. |
|
LNG Specialist |
Manage LNG storage, regasification, and distribution operations. |
|
Offshore Engineer |
Design and oversee offshore drilling and production platforms. |
|
Refinery Operator |
Operate refining units, monitor processes, and ensure product quality. |
|
Petroleum Economist |
Analyze market trends, project economics, and investment feasibility. |
|
Supply Chain/Logistics Manager |
Manage procurement, storage, and transportation of oil & gas products. |
|
Energy Analyst |
Research energy markets, prepare reports, and support strategic decision-making. |
Job Profile |
Educational Eligibility |
Experience Requirement |
Other Key Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Petroleum Engineer |
Bachelor’s/Master’s in Petroleum Engineering |
2–8 years |
Knowledge of drilling/production software; Spanish preferred |
|
Reservoir Engineer |
Degree in Petroleum/Reservoir Engineering |
3–10 years |
Strong analytical & simulation skills |
|
Drilling Engineer |
Degree in Mechanical/Petroleum Engineering |
2–7 years |
IWCF/Well Control certification required |
|
Geologist / Geophysicist |
Degree in Geology/Geophysics |
2–6 years |
Seismic interpretation & exploration experience |
|
Production Engineer |
Degree in Petroleum/Chemical Engineering |
3–8 years |
Knowledge of production optimization tools |
|
Process Engineer |
Chemical/Process Engineering degree |
2–6 years |
Experience in refineries & petrochemical plants |
|
Mechanical Engineer |
Mechanical Engineering degree |
2–5 years |
Knowledge of rotating/static equipment |
|
Electrical Engineer |
Electrical Engineering degree |
2–6 years |
Experience in power systems, motors, grids |
|
Instrumentation Engineer |
Electronics/Instrumentation degree |
2–6 years |
PLC, DCS, SCADA knowledge required |
|
Pipeline Engineer |
Civil/Mechanical Engineering degree |
3–8 years |
Experience in pipeline design & maintenance |
|
HSE Manager |
Degree in Engineering/Environmental Science |
5–10 years |
NEBOSH/OSHA certification mandatory |
|
Project Manager |
Engineering degree + MBA (preferred) |
7–15 years |
PMP/Prince2 certification an advantage |
|
Operations Manager |
Engineering/Management degree |
8–15 years |
Proven leadership & operational expertise |
|
Maintenance Engineer |
Mechanical/Electrical Engineering degree |
3–7 years |
Experience in preventive & corrective maintenance |
|
LNG Specialist |
Engineering degree (Chemical/Mechanical) |
5–10 years |
LNG operations & cryogenic handling expertise |
|
Offshore Engineer |
Offshore/Marine/Mechanical Engineering degree |
3–10 years |
Offshore certification (BOSIET, HUET) |
|
Refinery Operator |
Diploma/Engineering in Chemical/Mechanical |
2–5 years |
Hands-on refinery plant operation skills |
|
Petroleum Economist |
Economics/Finance/Engineering degree |
3–8 years |
Strong financial modeling & energy economics knowledge |
|
Supply Chain/Logistics Mgr |
Degree in Logistics/Business/Engineering |
5–10 years |
SAP, ERP knowledge & international trade compliance |
|
Energy Analyst |
Degree in Energy Studies/Economics/Engineering |
2–5 years |
Market analysis, data modeling & reporting skills |
Job Profile |
Typical Experience Required |
|---|---|
|
Petroleum Engineer |
2–8 years depending on project scope |
|
Reservoir Engineer |
3–10 years, with strong modeling experience |
|
Drilling Engineer |
2–7 years, including well control operations |
|
Geologist / Geophysicist |
2–6 years in exploration and seismic analysis |
|
Production Engineer |
3–8 years in field production optimization |
|
Process Engineer |
2–6 years in refining or petrochemical industries |
|
Mechanical Engineer |
2–5 years in rotating/static equipment handling |
|
Electrical Engineer |
2–6 years in energy systems and facility operations |
|
Instrumentation Engineer |
2–6 years with PLC/DCS/SCADA systems |
|
Pipeline Engineer |
3–8 years in pipeline design, installation, or maintenance |
|
HSE Manager |
5–10 years in safety and compliance roles |
|
Project Manager |
7–15 years including project leadership |
|
Operations Manager |
8–15 years in refinery or field operations |
|
Maintenance Engineer |
3–7 years in preventive and corrective maintenance |
|
LNG Specialist |
5–10 years in LNG storage/regasification |
|
Offshore Engineer |
3–10 years offshore project experience |
|
Refinery Operator |
2–5 years plant operation experience |
|
Petroleum Economist |
3–8 years in energy economics and financial modeling |
|
Supply Chain/Logistics Mgr |
5–10 years in procurement and logistics |
|
Energy Analyst |
2–5 years in energy market research and reporting |
Company Name |
Headquarters (Spain) |
Key Areas of Operation |
Hiring Focus for International Candidates |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Repsol |
Madrid |
Exploration, production, refining, petrochemicals, renewable integration |
Engineers (Petroleum, Process, Mechanical), Project Managers, Energy Analysts |
|
Cepsa (Compañía Española de Petróleos, S.A.) |
Madrid |
Refining, petrochemicals, exploration & production, LNG |
Process Engineers, HSE, Operations Managers, Maintenance Specialists |
|
Enagás |
Madrid |
Natural gas transmission, LNG regasification, gas storage |
Pipeline Engineers, LNG Specialists, Supply Chain Managers |
|
Naturgy (formerly Gas Natural Fenosa) |
Barcelona |
Natural gas distribution, power generation, renewables |
Energy Analysts, Electrical Engineers, Project Engineers |
|
CLH (Compañía Logística de Hidrocarburos, now Exolum) |
Madrid |
Oil & fuel storage, logistics, pipeline management |
Logistics Managers, Mechanical Engineers, Operations Experts |
|
Petronor (subsidiary of Repsol) |
Bilbao (Basque Country) |
Refining and petrochemical production |
Refinery Operators, Process Engineers, HSE Managers |
|
Endesa (part of Enel Group) |
Madrid |
Energy distribution, oil & gas trading, renewables |
Energy Analysts, Supply Chain, Finance & Trading Specialists |
|
Eni España (subsidiary of Eni, Italy) |
Madrid |
Oil & gas trading, LNG, refining collaboration |
International Trade, Petroleum Economists, Project Engineers |
|
BP España (British Petroleum) |
Madrid |
Oil refining, fuel distribution, trading |
Drilling Engineers, Energy Analysts, HSE Specialists |
|
Shell España |
Madrid |
LNG, fuel distribution, renewables integration |
LNG Experts, Project Managers, Mechanical Engineers |
Job Profile |
Avg. Salary (EUR/Year) |
General Requirements |
Roles & Responsibilities |
Top Hiring Companies in Spain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Petroleum Engineer |
€55,000 |
Degree in Petroleum/Mechanical Eng.; 2–8 yrs exp. |
Design extraction methods; optimize production |
Repsol, Cepsa, BP España |
|
Reservoir Engineer |
€60,000 |
Reservoir/Petroleum Eng. degree; 3–10 yrs exp. |
Analyze reservoirs; estimate reserves |
Repsol, Eni España |
|
Drilling Engineer |
€58,000 |
Mechanical/Petroleum Eng.; IWCF; 2–7 yrs exp. |
Plan/execution of drilling operations |
Repsol, Shell España |
|
Geologist/Geophysicist |
€50,000 |
Geology/Geophysics degree; 2–6 yrs exp. |
Seismic studies; exploration analysis |
Repsol, Petronor |
|
Production Engineer |
€53,000 |
Petroleum/Chemical Eng.; 3–8 yrs exp. |
Manage wells; optimize output |
Cepsa, Naturgy |
|
Process Engineer |
€46,000 |
Chemical Eng.; 2–6 yrs exp. |
Design/refine processes in plants |
Repsol, Petronor |
|
Mechanical Engineer |
€45,000 |
Mechanical Eng.; 2–5 yrs exp. |
Maintain rigs/refinery equipment |
Enagás, CLH (Exolum) |
|
Electrical Engineer |
€44,000 |
Electrical Eng.; 2–6 yrs exp. |
Oversee electrical systems |
Endesa, Naturgy |
|
Instrumentation Engineer |
€43,000 |
Instrumentation/Electronics Eng.; 2–6 yrs exp. |
Install/maintain monitoring systems |
Cepsa, Shell España |
|
Pipeline Engineer |
€47,000 |
Civil/Mechanical Eng.; 3–8 yrs exp. |
Design/maintain pipelines |
Enagás, CLH (Exolum) |
|
HSE Manager |
€48,000 |
Eng./Env. Science; NEBOSH/OSHA; 5–10 yrs exp. |
Safety compliance, audits, training |
Repsol, BP España |
|
Project Manager |
€65,000 |
Eng. degree + PMP; 7–15 yrs exp. |
Manage projects, budgets, teams |
Repsol, Cepsa, Eni España |
|
Operations Manager |
€62,000 |
Eng./Management degree; 8–15 yrs exp. |
Oversee daily operations |
Repsol, Naturgy |
|
Maintenance Engineer |
€42,000 |
Mechanical/Electrical Eng.; 3–7 yrs exp. |
Preventive/corrective maintenance |
Petronor, Exolum |
|
LNG Specialist |
€61,000 |
Eng. degree; LNG exp.; 5–10 yrs exp. |
LNG storage/regasification |
Enagás, Naturgy |
|
Offshore Engineer |
€56,000 |
Offshore/Marine Eng.; BOSIET; 3–10 yrs exp. |
Offshore platform design & safety |
Repsol, Shell España |
|
Refinery Operator |
€38,000 |
Diploma/Eng. degree; 2–5 yrs exp. |
Operate refining units |
Petronor, Repsol |
|
Petroleum Economist |
€57,000 |
Economics/Finance degree; 3–8 yrs exp. |
Analyze market & project economics |
Eni España, BP España |
|
Supply Chain/Logistics Mgr |
€52,000 |
Logistics/Business/Eng.; 5–10 yrs exp. |
Manage procurement & distribution |
CLH (Exolum), Naturgy |
|
Energy Analyst |
€41,000 |
Energy Studies/Economics; 2–5 yrs exp. |
Research markets & trends |
Endesa, Repsol |
Visa Type |
Who It’s For |
Key Eligibility |
Validity & Renewal |
Notes for Oil & Gas Professionals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Work Visa (Tipo D – Highly Skilled Professional) |
Non-EU nationals hired by a Spanish company |
Job offer from a recognized employer; proof of qualifications; background check |
1 year (renewable up to 5 years, then permanent residency) |
Common route for engineers, project managers, and specialists hired by companies like Repsol, Cepsa, Enagás |
|
EU Blue Card |
Highly qualified non-EU professionals |
University degree; job offer with salary 1.5× Spain’s average |
1–4 years (renewable); leads to EU mobility |
Attractive for petroleum engineers, geologists, economists; allows working in other EU countries later |
|
Intra-Company Transfer Visa (ICT) |
Employees of multinational companies posted to Spain |
Must be currently employed in parent company outside Spain; transfer letter |
Up to 3 years (renewable) |
Common for oil majors (BP, Shell, Eni) transferring staff to Spanish offices |
|
Seasonal Work Visa |
Short-term oil & gas project workers |
Temporary contracts (less than 9 months); accommodation proof |
Up to 9 months |
Useful for technicians/operators hired for project-specific work |
|
Self-Employed Work Visa (Autónomo) |
Contractors or consultants in oil & gas services |
Business plan; proof of financial means; professional licenses |
1 year (renewable up to 5 years) |
Suitable for consultants, independent engineers, or HSE trainers |
|
Research & Development Visa |
Specialists in R&D (energy & sustainability projects) |
Contract with recognized research entity; advanced degree |
Duration of project or contract |
Useful for professionals in LNG, hydrogen, or carbon capture projects |
|
Student Visa with Work Permit |
Graduate students in energy/oil studies seeking internships or part-time work |
Admission to Spanish university; proof of funds |
Duration of study (can work 20 hrs/week) |
Gateway for fresh graduates entering oil & gas companies through internships |
|
Golden Visa (Investor Visa) |
Investors in energy infrastructure/business |
€500,000+ investment in Spanish assets/business |
2 years (renewable every 5 years) |
Rare, but possible for investors setting up oil & gas service companies |
