Why career opportunities in Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) are booming
LNG’s role as the bridge between traditional oil and renewables makes it a winner for operators and a worthwhile profession
The Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the global energy market. As the world transitions to a low-carbon future, LNG is playing a critical role in bridging the gap between traditional fossil fuels and renewable energy sources. The demand for LNG imports is rising significantly, where it is considered a vital transitional fuel from coal to gas, with an estimated rise of more than 50% in Asia and China. With various LNG projects underway and many more in the planning stages, there is a consistent need for specialists in this field.
If you're looking for a career in energy, working on LNG projects could provide you with incredible opportunities. This blog will highlight some of the major career paths available within the LNG industry and discuss why these jobs are increasingly sought after on an international scale.
What is LNG and Why is it Important?
In the transition towards renewable energy, net zero, and reducing climate change, LNG is one of the cleanest-burning fossil fuels and has numerous environmental advantages - LNG produces less carbon dioxide than coal and oil, making it a cleaner alternative while maintaining reliable energy output. In its liquid form, natural gas takes up about 1/600th of the volume of its gaseous state, making it much more efficient to store and transport, especially over long distances where pipelines are not viable. This process allows LNG to be shipped internationally, enabling countries with natural gas reserves to export their resources more easily.
Major LNG Exporters Around the World
To highlight the importance and the reliance on LNG, below are some of the key countries that are major producers and exporters of LNG, as well as significant employers in this field:
United States
The U.S. is the largest producers of natural gas and LNG globally. The U.S. is home to multiple large-scale LNG projects, and with its abundant supply of shale gas, it continues to be a leader in both natural gas production and LNG exports.
Fact: All seven of the US LNG terminals have been built after 2016, with another 15 approved or under construction.
Australia
Australia has vast reserves of natural gas both offshore and onshore. The country has an estimated 50 years' worth of natural gas resources and is home to major LNG export projects. These projects make Australia a prominent player in the global LNG market.
Fact: Australia’s major gas fields are located on the north west coast, 1000’s of miles from the 81% of the main population on the south east coast.
Qatar
Qatar is one of the leading LNG exporters in the world, where a large majority of Qatar’s energy comes from natural gas. LNG jobs in Qatar are particularly sought after due to the country's extensive investment and reliance on LNG production and export infrastructure.
Fact: Qatar is expanding LNG production from the North Field, the world’s largest single non-associated gas field, with more expansions to follow.
Mozambique
Mozambique holds the third-largest natural gas reserves in Africa, following Nigeria and Algeria. Mozambique's developing LNG projects are attracting international attention, leading to numerous job opportunities in the region.
Fact: To date, the amount of natural gas discovered in the Offshore Area 1 project is the equivalent of a 12 billion barrel oil field.[1]
Career Opportunities in LNG
The growing demand for LNG, coupled with numerous large-scale projects underway, means there is an increasing need for skilled professionals across various sectors of the LNG industry. Whether you’re an engineer, a technician, or a management professional, there are many ways to be part of this expanding field. Here are some of the most sought-after roles:
LNG Engineers
LNG engineers are at the forefront of designing, building, and maintaining LNG facilities. This includes everything from gas extraction to liquefaction, storage, and transport. LNG engineers focus on four main areas:
Process Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Electrical Engineering
LNG Technicians
Technicians play a crucial role in the day-to-day operations of LNG facilities. They are responsible for monitoring equipment, performing maintenance, and ensuring the safe and efficient functioning of the plant. These roles often include:
Instrumentation Technicians
Mechanical Technicians
Electrical Technicians
Control Room Operators
Project Managers
LNG projects are large-scale undertakings that require meticulous coordination and management. Project managers oversee the entire lifecycle of an LNG project, ensuring that all aspects, from construction through to operation, are completed on time and within budget. This role typically involves:
Managing large teams of engineers and contractors
Coordinating with suppliers and external stakeholders
Ensuring compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations
Quality Assurance & Quality Control (QA/QC) Specialists
QA/QC specialists are responsible for maintaining the quality and safety of LNG facilities and projects. These professionals monitor construction and production processes to ensure that they meet regulatory standards. Key responsibilities include:
Conducting inspections of materials and equipment
Ensuring compliance with safety regulations
Documenting and reporting on quality control procedures
Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) Officers
In the LNG industry, safety is of the utmost importance. HSE officers ensure that all activities adhere to stringent safety and environmental standards. They implement and monitor health and safety programs, conduct risk assessments, and work closely with all departments to mitigate any potential hazards that could affect the workforce and the environment they work in.
Operations Managers
Operations managers oversee the functioning of LNG plants and export facilities. Their responsibilities include managing staff, ensuring that production targets are met, and maintaining compliance with safety and environmental standards. This role is critical for the smooth and efficient operation of LNG facilities.
Logistics and Supply Chain Specialists
The LNG supply chain is complex, requiring experts to manage the transportation of natural gas from production sites to end-users. Logistics and supply chain specialists coordinate the transportation of LNG by sea, ensuring that the product reaches its destination safely and efficiently. This role involves:
Planning and coordinating shipments
Managing LNG storage and distribution facilities
Working with shipping companies to ensure timely delivery
Environmental Scientists and Engineers
As LNG projects become more prevalent, there is an increasing need for environmental professionals who can help manage and reduce the environmental impact of these operations. Working alongside HSE, environmental scientists and engineers work to minimize the carbon footprint of LNG projects and ensure that environmental regulations are adhered to.
The Growing Demand for LNG Talent
As more LNG projects come online, the demand for skilled professionals in the industry will rapidly increase. Employers in the LNG sector are actively recruiting internationally, offering opportunities for career growth in various parts of the world. Whether you’re interested in working in the U.S., Australia, Qatar, or Mozambique, or elsewhere, there are numerous opportunities available.
Typical employers in this sector include:
Operating companies (usually oil companies) that hold exploration and production licenses
Drilling companies
Engineering firms specialising in oil, gas, and heavy industry
Construction firms involved in the development of LNG facilities
Get involved in the LNG industry
The LNG industry is booming, and the career opportunities are vast and varied. Whether you're a seasoned professional or looking to enter the industry, there are many roles available that offer both challenging work and the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the global energy transition. With many projects already underway or in development, the world of LNG needs talented individuals.
If you are passionate about sustainability and want to be part of an industry that is playing a pivotal role in reducing carbon emissions, a career in LNG could be your next big move.
Now is the perfect time to explore the vast array of job opportunities available in this fast-moving field.
Connect with Orion Group
If you're thinking of taking your career to the next stage within LNG, then why not connect with Orion Group?
Here are a few of our current LNG related job: View LNG
Orion Group specialise in connecting talented individuals like you with leading companies that value your specific expertise. By registering your CV with us, you’ll gain access to a wide range of oil and gas and energy, ensuring that your skills and experience are matched with the right role.
