Thanks to “Landman” on Paramount+, everyone’s curious about what a landman really does.
Set in modern-day West Texas, the show follows Tommy Norris (played by Billy Bob Thornton), who manages a crew of roughnecks while contending with wildcatters, cartel members, and a disgruntled ex-wife.
The real job is dynamic, rewarding, and essential to how the energy industry runs, even if it’s a little less action-packed than Hollywood suggests.
Landmen are public-facing professionals who help energy companies secure the rights to explore for oil, gas, and other minerals. Think of a landman as a go-between connecting energy companies with landowners, local communities, and government agencies.
On a day-to-day basis, landmen typically:
“Landman” is an industry term that covers a broad range of roles, including field landmen, title analysts, and land acquisition specialists. You may also see the titles “land professional” or “land agent” used in job postings. And for the record, people of any gender can hold these positions.
Most new landmen start with a bachelor’s degree, often in land management, energy management, business, or a related field. Because the Permian Basin is vital to U.S. energy production, several local universities have built programs specifically for students interested in the energy sector.
The University of Texas Permian Basin offers an in-person BBA in energy land management, preparing students in the heart of one of the world’s most productive oil regions. UTPB also offers a range of online BBA and MBA programs for anyone interested in building a strong foundation in business and energy, no matter their schedule or where they live.
Many future landmen start in support roles at energy companies or related businesses. That’s not a setback. Rather, it’s an opportunity to learn the industry from the ground up.
In these early roles, treat every day as an opportunity to learn a new part of the business. Employers, especially those in the fast-moving energy industry, are usually willing to help professionals eager to learn on the job.
Take this time to network. Use platforms like LinkedIn to build relationships with land professionals, attorneys, and energy executives. These contacts are often the ones who help you secure your first landman role. Once you’ve built some experience, you’ll be in a stronger position to seek professional certification.
After earning your degree and gaining relevant experience, you can pursue certification through the American Association of Professional Landmen (AAPL), the leading professional organization for the field. AAPL sets ethical standards, offers continuing education, and provides three levels of certification:
RL is typically the first step. It requires active AAPL membership, current landman work, sponsorship from an RPL or CPL, and successful completion of an open‑book, take‑home exam.
RPL and CPL designations demand more extensive experience, combining education and landwork into what AAPL calls “credit years.” They also involve more rigorous exams, so they’re goals to work toward as your career advances.
Real-world landwork is nothing like the high-octane drama portrayed on television. You’re never going to face cartels or watch oil rigs erupt in flames, but you will be challenged by complex negotiations, evolving regulations, and shifting market conditions.
The upside is that many landmen enjoy strong earning potential, career flexibility, and the chance to work at the center of a changing energy landscape. How far you go often depends on your work ethic, professional network, and commitment to continuing education.
Ready to get out there and start negotiating as a landman? Keep these key takeaways in mind as you chart a path to success.
If you want to stand out in oil and gas, a degree from a university rooted in the energy industry can be a powerful differentiator. UT Permian Basin is closely tied to the future of energy and offers online options designed to fit your schedule.
The University’s online Graduate Certificate in Energy Business focuses on energy accounting, finance, and law, helping students apply core business skills directly to the energy sector.
For those ready to go further, the online MBA with Certificate in Energy Business is a 36‑ to 45‑credit program accredited by the AACSB. It covers topics like primary energy production, advanced accounting, energy finance, energy law, energy commodities, and enterprise risk management.
Beyond these offerings, UT Permian Basin offers numerous online BBA and MBA programs, all of which can be completed on your schedule.
Success in oil and gas rarely comes from waiting on the sidelines. When the timing’s right, explore UT Permian Basin’s online programs and take the leap. With the right education and experience, you can build a long-term career as a land professional.
Sources:
https://www.ziprecruiter.com/career/Landman/What-Is-How-to-Become
https://www.utpb.edu/blogs/2024/11/landman-in-energy-sector
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