5 QUESTIONS – Data Processor

10 January 2014

Atlas Professional Keith Owens

Why this position, and why this industry?

“Industry technology is always changing. Initially, I was attracted by the work in worldwide locations. The incentive to keep going is simply that I like my job and would find it difficult to work in another environment. Working offshore means a twelve hour shift and seven days a week routine, with the vessels operating 24/7 for the duration of the project. This means that problems have to be solved and deadlines achieved onboard and on site. On occasions we are required to work in the client’s office onshore. This is obviously a totally different environment to working at sea with problems and deadlines seemingly more relaxed as the daily cost of the vessel does not apply. I find the daily commuting to and from the office frustrating at times.

How would you describe your job?

“Being a Data Processor can be challenging: there are many software packages that require knowledge and no two jobs are the same. Clients can be demanding at times by setting unrealistic deadlines. Also, in my opinion, the skills required of Data Processors are sometimes seriously undervalued. However, I am comfortable with the tasks and responsibilities–and feel the salary is justified.”

And the Offshore Survey & Construction industry?

“The industry is constantly evolving, which requires a steady stream of new people with new skills to come in. This keeps the industry from going stale. I believe most people are satisfied with this state of affairs.

Thinking of progressing your career?

“Everybody would like to progress, but personally I only want to enter into areas I am comfortable with. Atlas’ guidance in this will be put to the test soon as I am looking to change change the type of processing work I am currently involved in.”

What have the highlights been so far?

“Probably the delivery of a long and difficult project around 2009 where new types of deliverables were required and new skills had to be quickly mastered to satisfy the client’s requests. A very challenging situation arose in which everybody had to help each other out–those involved back then still talk about the project to this day! In the end, everything went well, but working in this industry means you always have to be prepared because challenging situations do occur now and then.”