Further job cuts are expected to be announced this week as a North-east oil firm enters into a consultation phase with workers.

National Oilwell Varco, confirmed that up to 100 jobs are expected to be lost as a result of the global industry downturn.

A spokeswoman for the firm said: “We are of the understanding that the number of possible job losses is likely to be around 100.”

National Oilwell Varco (NOV) operates from a total of five premises in the Aberdeen area, bases include National Oilwell Varco Mission Products based in Dyce, NOV Asep Elmar situated in Echt as well as two further bases south of Aberdeen in Montrose.

Jake Molloy from the RMT Union, spoke out this mornings, commenting; “I have been getting e-mails from employees within the company about the redundancies since Saturday. And I think more redundancies are to come.”

The current industry downturn has seen local and national companies reducing headcount dramatically to remain competitive with low oil prices and excess production from the Middle East.

It is also believed that FMC Technologies, an oil service equipment specialist firm, have entered in to consultation with staff about downsizing there Aberdeen operations, FMC Technologies have bases located at Riverside Drive and Wellington Circle in Altens.