Montney (shale Formation)

A large land rig capable of drilling deep wells, typically over 5,000 metres. It requires specialised subcontractors and larger crews than smaller single or double rigs. Expect higher equipment and certification requirements when bidding on triple rig projects.

A contract between an operator and a service company that establishes the general terms and conditions for all future work. Individual jobs are then executed under work orders or AFEs referencing the MSA.

A distinct, laterally continuous zone within a reservoir formation targeted as a separate drilling interval. Operators often develop multiple benches in stacked plays, scheduling sequential frac and completion crews per zone. Subcontractors should confirm which bench is active before mobilising, as each may have different well specs and timelines.

The company that holds the rights to develop an oil and gas property and manages day-to-day operations. Operators hire subcontractors and service companies to perform various tasks.

A well used to pump fluids — such as water, CO2, or chemicals — into a subsurface formation for disposal or enhanced recovery. Subcontractors are commonly hired for drilling, wellbore servicing, and chemical injection work on these sites. Scope can include pump maintenance, pressure testing, and regulatory compliance support.

The phase of oil and gas well development after drilling is finished, encompassing the work required to prepare a well for production — including perforating, fracturing, and installing wellhead equipment. For subcontractors, completions represent a concentrated burst of high-demand field work where specialised crews, equipment, and services are mobilised under tight timelines.

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.