Oilfield jobs rise again in August, sector approaches pre-pandemic levels

HOUSTON, TX, September 2, 2022 — Employment in the U.S. oilfield services and equipment sector rose by an estimated 6,865 jobs to 648,914 in August, according to preliminary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and analysis by the Energy Workforce & Technology Council.

Gains in August make OFS employment the highest since the COVID-19 pandemic began, but still off the pre-pandemic mark in February 2020 of 706,528. Overall, U.S. employers added 315,000 jobs, down from July numbers but still representing a strong pace of growth.

“The August jobs increases are very encouraging as our sector continues to rebuild the energy workforce from pandemic losses,” said Energy Workforce & Technology Council CEO Leslie Beyer. “Our industry is meeting the challenge of growing global demand by producing at almost pre-pandemic levels, reducing emissions industry wide, all while continuing to make gains in the workforce. Every day, our energy workforce is powering the world while developing new, innovative technologies to ensure reliable, affordable energy is accessible across the globe. Through the powerhouse of American energy, we are lifting people from energy poverty, and providing economic and energy security for our nation and others throughout the world.”

August State-by-State Breakdown