Shortage of Qualified Personnel in Vaca Muerta

In Neuquén, the oil industry faces a significant shortage of qualified personnel. Despite the high demand for jobs, companies struggle to find suitable candidates due to the low educational level in the region.


Shortage of Qualified Personnel in Vaca Muerta

In the Vaca Muerta region, the demand for jobs is high, and most job seekers manage to find one. However, they face a significant challenge due to the shortage of qualified personnel and skilled trades in the sector.

According to a report by Adecco Argentina, the consulting firm receives 2000 CVs in Neuquén, of which 1500 are aimed at working in the oil industry. This high number of applications reflects the need for training due to the low educational level in the region.

Companies have been forced to intensify their recruitment efforts and expand their search beyond provincial borders to try to fill critical vacancies. This talent shortage poses significant challenges for the sector, with companies seeking profiles that match their needs.

In this context, the lack of qualified personnel creates problems in hiring skilled workers, such as welders, turners, electricians, gas fitters, and instrumentation technicians. The high turnover in the sector is also costly for companies, partly due to a lack of awareness of aspects like work hours, such as the 14 on 7 model.

Tomás Medina, Commercial Manager of Oil & Gas at Adecco Argentina, pointed out that while it is likely for a person to find work when searching in Vaca Muerta, there is a shortage of specialized profiles in key areas of the energy sector. The growing demand for engineers, technicians, and specialized personnel exceeds the available local supply.

Medina emphasizes the need to implement educational initiatives to prepare future talent and meet the growing demand of the oil industry in the country. The competition for talent in the job market leads to increased labor costs and pressures the finances of organizations.