Most commonly reported Work Activities

•   Making Decisions and Solving Problems Analysing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
•   Controlling Machines and Processes Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
•   Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
•   Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Identifying information by categorising, estimating, recognising differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
•   Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
•   Documenting/Recording Information Entering, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
•   Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
•   Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
•   Interacting With Computers Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
•   Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.

Working Life

Gas engineers who specialise in exploration are concerned with the design, construction and maintenance of terminals, equipment and facilities used to extract and store gas. Engineers use computer-aided design (CAD) technology as the standard tool for designing safer and more efficient rigs. On a day-to-day basis, engineers devise safety procedures and maintenance routines.  
 
Gas engineers who deal with transportation and distribution are involved in many different activities, including pipeline design, construction and maintenance. They also design and develop new sites.  
 
Engineers who develop sections of the network may begin by building computer models of the new section. They examine local plans that show existing buildings, water pipelines and electricity cables. They notify the local authority, and any residents and shopkeepers who may be affected, and ensure that sufficient labour and materials are available. While work is in progress, the engineer visits the site and resolves any technical difficulties.  
 
Gas supply specialists are responsible for either the control of gas flow or laying new pipelines and replacing existing ones. Some engineers are based in a control room where they monitor gas flow and pressure by means of visual display unit screens. If the demand for gas increases substantially, additional supplies have to be called upon.  
 
Drilling Engineers are responsible for the drilling of wells. They provide on site support, monitor safety and analyse drilling performance and factors affecting cost and efficiency.  
 
Engineers work on systems control, checking the compressor systems and valves that regulate the flow of gas throughout the country.  
 
Engineers who specialise in gas utilisation gain knowledge of gas burners, plant design, gas supply, combustion, thermodynamics and manufacturing processes. Some engineers visit manufacturing companies, hospitals and other large scale gas users to advise on how they may use gas more efficiently. This involves conducting surveys of current fuel use and possibly comparing gas with other fuels. Where appropriate, engineers design and arrange for the installation of new equipment such as boilers or heating systems.

Most commonly reported Work Tasks

• Monitor transportation and storage of flammable and other potentially dangerous products to ensure that safety guidelines are followed.
• Monitor equipment functioning, observe temperature, level, and flow gauges, and perform regular unit checks to ensure that all equipment is operating as it should.
• Control operation of compressors, scrubbers, evaporators, and refrigeration equipment to liquefy, compress, or regasify natural gas.
• Start and shut down plant equipment.
• Record, review, and compile operations records, test results, and gauge readings such as temperatures, pressures, concentrations, and flows.
• Adjust temperature, pressure, vacuum, level, flow rate, or transfer of gas to maintain processes at required levels or to correct problems.
• Clean, maintain, and repair equipment, using hand tools, or request that repair and maintenance work be performed.
• Collaborate with other operators to solve unit problems.
• Determine causes of abnormal pressure variances, and make corrective recommendations, such as installation of pipes to relieve overloading.
• Read logsheets to determine product demand and disposition, or to detect malfunctions.

Further Information

• Gas Network Engineer- from: N.C.S. [UK]

This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:

 Investigative

The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.

 Realist

Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.

Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.

 Administrative

Administrative people are interested in work that offers security and a sense of being part of a larger process. They may be at their most productive under supervisors who give clear guidelines and while performing routine tasks in a methodical and reliable way.

They tend to enjoy clerical and most forms of office work, where they perform essential administrative duties. They often form the backbone of large and small organisations alike. They may enjoy being in charge of office filing systems, and using computers and other office equipment to keep things running smoothly. They usually like routine work hours and prefer comfortable indoor workplaces.

Gas engineers normally complete an appropriate engineering degree, although it may be possible to enter with a Higher Certificate or B.Eng. degree.  Mechanical engineering and chemical engineering degrees, diplomas and certificates are offered at a number of institutes of technology, colleges and universities in Ireland.

Depending on their level of entry, gas engineers can gain Chartered Engineer or Associate Engineer status. These professional titles can be applied for after first gaining an accredited degree, diploma or certificate and following this through with three or four years experience in the workplace  

Those who hold the Higher Certificate in Engineering can qualify to become Technician Members of the Institution of Engineers of Ireland. Following three years experience a member may then obtain the title Eng Tech IEI. Chartered Engineers (CEng. MIEI) normally have the greatest level of responsibility for engineering projects. They plan and manage engineering activities and functions and lead the development of new technologies. They make sure that a project is completed on time and within budget and may assume responsibility for the direction of important tasks, including the profitable management of industrial and commercial enterprises  
 
Associate Engineers (AEng. IEI) normally have a specific level of responsibility for engineering projects. They may work as team leaders or deal with technical aspects of complex technologies. They may supervise quality assurance procedures, and manage and develop test and inspection programmes.

Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research. 

Further Education (FET)
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.

Example search terms include: engineering technology, engineering operations, manufacturing technician maintenance skills technology, CNC, computer numeric control operator, life sciences manufacturing operations, quality management.

Search for FET Courses

PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.

Example search terms include: pre-apprenticeship engineering, pre-university engineering, engineering technology.

Search for PLC Courses

Apprenticeships: 
Apprenticeships are structured work-based training programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. They run from 2 – 4 years and are open to individuals of all ages, including school leavers, those seeking a career change, and existing employees who wish to upskill.

Examples: Engineering, Manufacturing, Design.

Search for Apprenticeships

Higher Education CAO (Undergraduate) 
Higher Education courses at Levels 6 to 8 on the NFQ, delivered in Universities and Technological Universities & Institutes. Courses run from 2 – 5 years and places are allocated on a points-based system, processed by the Central Application Office.

Example search terms include: manufacturing, design engineering, mechanical, engineering, agricultural, biomedical, energy, automation engineering, chemical engineering .

Search for CAO Courses

Springboard courses You can study full, part time, and online blended engineering and Manufacturing programmes to develop your skills search Springboard courses

Higher Education (Postgraduate)
Postgraduate courses are courses at Levels 9 and 10 on the NFQ and usually last 1 – 2 years full time, or longer if a PhD or part time. Entrants typically require an undergraduate award (Level 8).

Example search terms include: digitalisation, manufacturing, research, engineering, mechanical, process, automation systems, biomedical engineering, leadership in digitisation of manufacturing, smart manufacturing technology, quality management.

Search for Postgraduate Courses

Professional Development 

Professional development (CPD) courses are specialised training, formal education, or advanced professional learning that improves skills, professional knowledge, competency, and overall effectiveness in the professional world.

Engineering Skillnet Continuous professional development as you progress in your career.

Engineers Ireland Grades of Chartered membership in Engineering.

Check the Useful Contacts tab on this page to see if there are any professional bodies listed who may provide training related to this career.

Salary Range (thousands per year)* €38k - €68k

Salaries vary based on employer, location, experience, duties, and role.

Data Source(s):
Hudson/ Morgan McKinley/ CPL/ Sigmar/ Lincoln/ Indeed

Last Updated: July, 2024

Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Paper and wood machine operatives; Coal mine operatives; Quarry workers and related operatives; Energy plant operatives; Metal working machine operatives; Water and sewerage plant operatives; Printing machine assistants; Plant and machine operatives n.e.c.

This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2023).

Despite the strong employment growth rate for this occupation over the five-year period, employment only returned to pre-COVID-19 levels in 2022.

Although the green transition may result in an increased demand for elementary workers in energy and sewerage plant operations, the small numbers employed across the various roles in this occupation do not allow for detailed demand analysis.

• Engineers Ireland

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• Health and Safety Authority

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