Unconventional

The process of pumping cement slurry into a wellbore to seal the casing and isolate formation zones. Subcontractors may be hired to provide cementing crews, pumping equipment, or bulk material handling. It is a critical well integrity step with strict regulatory and operator specifications.

Two parallel horizontal wells — one injector, one producer — used together in SAGD (Steam Assisted Gravity Drainage) operations. Subcontractors are typically mobilised to service both wells as a single scope. Expect coordinated drilling, completions, and maintenance schedules across both wellbores.

An inspection process that measures remaining material thickness in pipes, vessels, or structural components to detect corrosion or erosion. Subcontractors are often hired to perform these assessments using UT (Ultrasonic Testing) equipment. Results determine whether assets require repair, replacement, or continued monitoring.

A small-diameter initial hole drilled along a planned path before reaming to full size, commonly used in horizontal directional drilling. Subcontractors use it to verify alignment and ground conditions before committing to the full excavation scope.

Large-scale infrastructure construction involving earthworks, bridges, roads, and foundations. Subcontractors in this sector typically supply specialised equipment, civil crews, or concrete services. Contracts are often high-value but require significant bonding and insurance capacity.

A category of ongoing field service work covering routine inspections, preventive maintenance, and corrective repairs on infrastructure or equipment, often awarded to subcontractors through standing agreements or blanket contracts. For field service companies, IMR scopes provide a reliable stream of recurring work but typically require crews to mobilise quickly and hold multiple trade certifications to meet operator requirements.

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.