Geotech Engineer in U.S or in Africa/Middle East

[geo6]

Hi All,

I am currently working in Alberta Canada as a junior geotech engineer at a consulting firm (one more year to go for my P.Eng). Until recent collapse in oil price, I am quite satisfied with what I have been involved with (ie typically large scale oil sands mining projects on both operational and capital fronts).

Now the situation is really bad in Alberta with massive layoffs at virtually every consulting / EPC firms heavily involved in oil sands projects. Luckily I still have my job but I am afraid that luck may run out pretty soon. Some say this is way worse than 2008 and certainly on par with the crisis in the 80s, if not worse.

I imagine international mobility for a no-name junior engineer must be pretty limited but still want to know if there are options or past experiences in gaining international assignments. My undergrad was done at a reputable school in Canada (well known in some parts of US as well)

I developed several options for myself:

1. Hold onto current job for as long as I can. Then get a Master deg in Canada which takes two years for research oriented master.

2. Do the master instead in US (I think Colorado, Texas or California may be the best places). Try to gain employment in US/Canada and internationally.

3. Continue to seek employment in Canada after being laid-off. I don't think passing PE is gonna help with getting US jobs considering I don't reside in the US / have no deg from US schools


Please let me know your thoughts. Any suggestions or past experiences in getting through the downturn are certainly welcome !

 

[oldestguy]

I'd look at where things are busy in the US and do some inquiry of the job board at NSPE as a start. Joining NSPE may or may not be needed.

http://www.nspe.org/membership/member-benefits

There also are many branch organizations and I'd bet the national headquarters might help some. Perhaps a letter to the presidents of the larger branches might get a reply with some ideas.

American Society of Civil Engineers may have some modes of similar nature.