An ownership stake in an oil and gas lease that obligates the holder to pay a share of exploration and production costs. For subcontractors, knowing who holds working interest helps identify who is ultimately responsible for approving work orders and invoices. Operators typically hold majority working interest and are your primary point of contract.
Working Interest
Related Terms
SPMT (Self-propelled Modular Transporter)
IndustryA multi-axle hydraulic platform vehicle used to move oversized modules, vessels, or heavy equipment on job sites. Subcontractors working heavy lifts or module installation scopes often coordinate directly with SPMT crews. Understanding load-out and transport sequencing is critical for scheduling your own work around these moves.
Mud Logging
IndustryA well-site service that monitors drilling fluid returns to detect hydrocarbons and analyse formation data in real time. Subcontractors provide specialised technicians and instrumentation units for this work. It is commonly scoped as a standalone package within a drilling contract.
Acreage Position
IndustryThe total land or mineral rights an operator holds for exploration or production. A large acreage position often signals sustained work programmes and long-term subcontractor demand. It helps field service companies forecast pipeline opportunities in a region.
Tubular Management Services
IndustryThe tracking, inspection, storage, and handling of oilfield pipe and casing on behalf of operators or drilling contractors. Subcontractors providing these services manage inventory, thread protection, and condition reporting at wellsite or yard facilities. Scope often includes running tally sheets, third-party inspections, and coordinating pipe delivery to rig floor.
Construction Manager At Risk
IndustryA delivery model where a construction manager guarantees a maximum project cost and takes on financial risk if it's exceeded. Subcontractors are hired by the CM, not the owner, making the CM your direct client and contract holder. Your scope, payments, and change orders all flow through the CM.
3d Seismic Reprocessing
IndustryThe computational reworking of existing 3D seismic survey data to improve subsurface imaging using updated algorithms. For subcontractors, it signals potential new data acquisition contracts as operators reassess drilling targets. It rarely requires field crews but can trigger follow-up geophysical or drilling programmes.
Latest Industry News
Empire Petroleum Takes 25% Stake in Southwest Louisiana Three-Well Development Program
Tulsa-based Empire Petroleum is participating in a three-well oil and gas development program in Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana, holding a 25% working interest in the first well with completion operations set for April 2026.
2 months ago IndustryGran Tierra Partners with Ecopetrol on Colombia Fields, Signaling New Drilling Activity Near Acordionero
Gran Tierra Energy has signed a deal to acquire a 49% working interest in the Tisquirama block in Colombia's Middle Magdalena Valley, partnering with Ecopetrol to expand waterflood and drilling operations adjacent to its Acordionero field.
2 months ago IndustryBuccaneer Energy Expands East Texas Position with Carlisle-1 Well Acquisition
Buccaneer Energy acquired 100% working interest in the Carlisle-1 well in East Texas' Pine Mills field, boosting its planned waterflood unit stake to over 50%.
2 months ago IndustryBlue Chip MRC and Knight Measurement Form 50/50 Controls Partnership in Alberta
Blue Chip MRC & Field Services and Knight Measurement have launched Blue Chip Controls, a 50/50 partnership offering integrated electrical, instrumentation, and environmental compliance services across Western Canada.
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Industry GuideHow 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.
Industry GuideWhat 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.
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