How to Get an Oil Rig Job | Become an Offshore Worker
People from all walks of life are interested in working on an oil rig, which offers a variety of emphases/skill sets/entry levels. Offshore oil rig work can take you all over the world and pay more than $100,000 per year.
How to Become an Offshore Worker and Get an Oil Rig Job
Entry level jobs on an oil rig include floorhands, welders, stewards, and galley hands, but those with prior oil rig experience may be able to start with a new company in a higher position, with an oil rig manager earning between $200 and $300,000 per year.
Tips on Getting an Oil Rig Job
Knowing what you want out of your career and being prepared to handle the physical and emotional demands of the job are two important factors to consider. Experience and education are not always a deal breaker, depending on the company.
What qualifications do you need to work on an oil rig?
To work on an oil or gas rig, you must be at least 18 years old, and you must first complete an offshore survival and firefighting course, also known as emergency response training or basic offshore induction and emergency training (BOSIET).
How much do oil rig workers get paid?
Oil rig workers earn an average of just under $100,000 per year, but pay varies greatly depending on experience and skills.
How much do oil rig workers make 2020?
Salary of an Oil Rig Worker
| Annual Salary | Weekly Pay | |
|---|---|---|
| Top Earners | $130,000 | $2,500 |
| 75th Percentile | $90,000 | $1,730 |
| Average | $75,511 | $1,452 |
| 25th Percentile | $32,000 | $615 |
Is working on an oil rig worth the money?
Working on an oil rig is a great choice for some people because of the high pay and general lifestyle, but it isn’t for everyone, so make sure you think it’d be worth it before you get your first job on one.
How long are oil rig workers away?
In Focus: Life on an Offshore Drilling Rig In offshore operations, workers often work 7 to 14 days in a row, 12 hours a day, and then have 7 to 14 days off; drilling crew members live on ships anchored nearby or in facilities on the platform itself for offshore rigs located far from the coast.
Is it easy to get a job on an oil rig?
Offshore drilling has few entry barriers, pays well above average for similar work available to job seekers without a degree, and employees typically work only half a calendar year, rotating on and off over 12-hour shifts lasting two to four weeks.
Is there WIFI on oil rigs?
Because all essential drilling and formation data must be sent back to the office for decisions, all rigs must be equipped with an internet connection. Yes, as Ryan states, the wifi service is provided at the rig provider’s discretion. Internet is available via satellite system.
What is the highest paying job on a oil rig?
The ten highest-paying offshore platform jobs
- Offshore drilling consultants u2013 $143,000-$305,000.
- Offshore installation managers u2013 $174,000-$247,000.
- Production / maintenance supervisor u2013 $108,000-$239,000.
- Subsea / chemical process engineers u2013 $75,000-$188,000.
- Reservoir engineers / Drilling engineers u2013 $73,000-$184,000.
What is life on an oil rig like?
Because this industry operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, a rig worker’s work usually falls on an 8-12 hour shift with breaks for food in the morning, noon, and night; however, since this industry operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, night shifts may be required; and while onboard a rig, one need not worry about food, laundry, or accommodation.
How dangerous is an oil rig job?
A well can also build up too much pressure, which can lead to an explosion if it is not corrected in time. Petroleum is highly flammable, as are several chemicals commonly used in onshore drilling, including hydrogen sulfide. A well can also build up too much pressure, which can lead to an explosion if it is not corrected in time.
Can you work on an oil rig with no experience?
As an oil worker, you may work on an offshore oil drilling platform, where you will receive specialized training in oil rig equipment, worker safety procedures, and environmental management, even if you have no prior experience.
Are cell phones allowed on oil rigs?
Normal electronics are banned outside the living quarters due to the risk of flammable gas coming up the oil well, and regular cameras require “hot work permits” to be opened prior to use, so taking pictures on an offshore oil rig is serious business.
Do oil rigs have gyms?
Free time on the rig Despite the limited space, oil platforms have a variety of amenities such as gyms, pool tables, televisions, and even cinemas. Just like with food, it is critical for people working on the platform to be able to unwind and relax, so employers provide the means.
Why are oil rig workers paid so much?
Part of the reason for the high pay on offshore oil rigs is to compensate for the difficult working conditions and risks that come with the job. Each day on the rig entails hard manual labor for many workers, including night shifts on the 24-hour operation.
How much do oil rig roughnecks make?
Roughneck: A roughneck is a member of the drilling crew who works long and physically demanding hours, cleans the rig, maintains drilling equipment, and assists with transports. Roughnecks earn an average of $34,680 per year, but can earn up to $51,550 per year.