Downstream

The segment of the oil and gas industry involved in processing, storing, and transporting oil, gas, and NGLs. Includes pipelines, gathering systems, and processing plants.

The equipment and techniques used to lift, secure, and move heavy loads on a job site. Subcontractors must ensure all rigging gear is certified and operators are ticketed. Improper rigging is a leading cause of serious incidents and contract liability.

The number of drilling rigs actively targeting natural gas formations at a given time. A rising gas-directed rig count signals increased demand for field services and subcontractor crews. Tracking this metric helps you anticipate work volumes and mobilisation timelines in gas-heavy basins.

Natural gas extracted from shale rock formations using hydraulic fracturing and horizontal drilling. For subcontractors, shale gas projects drive high demand for frac crews, equipment operators, and site services. Work is often concentrated in multi-well pad campaigns, creating steady but intense mobilisation cycles.

A long-term agreement where a subcontractor and operator share risks, costs, and rewards on a project. Both parties collaborate closely rather than working at arm's length. Performance incentives and pain/gain sharing are common features.

A processing facility that separates mixed natural gas liquids into individual products like propane, butane, and ethane. Subcontractors often work these sites for maintenance, turnarounds, and equipment servicing. Fractionators operate continuously, so field crews should expect shift-based schedules and strict hot-work permitting.

How Operator Mergers and Acquisitions Affect Your Subcontract Agreements

When operators merge, get acquired, or sell assets, subcontractor agreements are caught in the middle. Learn how M&A activity affects your MSA, payment terms, vendor status, and what to do before, during, and after a deal closes.

How Rig Count Trends Affect Subcontractor Demand and What to Do About It

Rig counts are the earliest signal of where field service work is heading. Learn how to read drilling activity trends, anticipate demand shifts, and position your crew before the phone stops ringing.

What Is an AFE in Oil and Gas and How Does It Affect Subcontractor Payments?

An AFE (Authorization for Expenditure) controls every dollar spent on an oilfield project. Learn how it affects your billing, change orders, and cash flow as a subcontractor.