Working on an oil rig is a demanding career path known for its significant earning potential. For those without direct industry experience, entering this field is achievable. This guide provides an overview of the requirements and steps needed to begin a career offshore, outlining the foundational prerequisites, essential certifications, and common entry-level jobs.
Basic Eligibility Requirements
Before considering a career on an oil rig, all applicants must meet a set of fundamental criteria. Companies strictly enforce these prerequisites to ensure a baseline of maturity, health, and security among the crew. These are non-negotiable standards that form the initial screening process for all potential hires.
The first requirement is age, with all workers needing to be at least 18 years old. A high school diploma or a GED is the minimum educational standard for entry-level roles. Because the work is physically strenuous, candidates must pass a physical examination to demonstrate they possess the necessary strength and stamina. Finally, every applicant is subject to a thorough drug screening and a background check.
Essential Training and Certifications
Securing a position on an offshore rig without prior experience hinges on obtaining specific, mandatory safety certifications. These training programs prepare new workers for the unique hazards of an offshore environment. Companies will not consider candidates who have not completed this foundational training, as it is a matter of regulation and safety.
The most widely recognized certification is the Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET). This multi-day course covers fire fighting, first aid, sea survival, and helicopter safety. A component of BOSIET is the Helicopter Underwater Escape Training (HUET), which simulates a helicopter ditching at sea and teaches workers how to escape a submerged aircraft. This training is a requirement for anyone traveling to an offshore installation via helicopter.
Another common requirement is the Minimum Industry Safety Training (MIST), often taken alongside BOSIET. This course covers hazard identification and risk assessment specific to offshore operations. For those seeking work in the United States, a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) is also necessary. The TWIC is a biometric credential issued by the TSA after a background check, granting unescorted access to secure maritime facilities like ports and heliports.
These certifications, particularly BOSIET and TWIC, represent the primary upfront investment for aspiring rig workers. They are internationally recognized and valid for a set period, after which a shorter refresher course, Further Offshore Emergency Training (FOET), is required. Possessing these credentials demonstrates a candidate’s commitment and readiness for offshore work, making them a more viable applicant.
Common Entry-Level Oil Rig Jobs
For individuals without direct experience, several entry-level positions provide a gateway into the offshore industry. These roles are physically demanding and serve as the starting point for a career on an oil rig. They allow new workers to learn the fundamentals of rig operations and prove their work ethic.
Roustabout
The Roustabout is a general laborer and one of the most common entry points; the term is often used interchangeably with Floorhand. Responsibilities are broad and include cleaning the rig, painting, scraping rust, and moving supplies and equipment. Roustabouts perform various maintenance tasks and support more skilled members of the crew.
Roughneck
Often considered a step up from a Roustabout, the Roughneck works primarily on the drill floor. This job involves the manual labor of connecting and disconnecting segments of drill pipe as it is lowered into or pulled out of the wellbore. It is a physically intensive role that requires strength, coordination, and the ability to work quickly under the supervision of the Driller.
Painter
A dedicated Painter on an oil rig is responsible for corrosion control. Given the harsh marine environment, preventing rust is a continuous and important task. Painters spend their shifts preparing surfaces by chipping away rust and old paint, then applying protective coatings to the rig’s structure and equipment.
Galley Hand
The Galley Hand works in the living quarters rather than on the operational decks. This role involves supporting the kitchen and catering staff by preparing food, serving meals, washing dishes, and maintaining the cleanliness of the galley and mess hall. This position can be an effective way to get offshore experience before transitioning to an operational role.
Finding and Applying for a Position
Once you have the necessary certifications, the next step is to actively search for job openings. The most direct approach is to visit the careers section on the websites of major drilling contractors and oilfield service companies like Transocean, Nabors Industries, and Schlumberger.
In addition to direct applications, specialized online job boards are a resource. Websites focused on the oil and gas industry list entry-level openings for positions that do not require prior rig experience. Creating a profile on these platforms can increase your visibility to recruiters.
When preparing a resume, highlight attributes relevant to the demands of rig work. Emphasize any experience that demonstrates mechanical aptitude, physical fitness, and a commitment to safety protocols. Be sure to list all your certifications, such as BOSIET and TWIC, prominently, and convey a willingness to work in a remote environment.
What to Expect When You Start
The transition to working on an oil rig involves a significant lifestyle adjustment defined by unique schedules and living conditions. Operations run 24 hours a day, with work divided into 12-hour shifts. This cycle continues for your rotation, often 14 or 28 consecutive days on the rig, followed by an equal amount of time off back on shore.
Living quarters on a modern rig are comfortable but compact, with most crew members sharing a cabin with bunk beds. Meals are provided around the clock in a communal galley to accommodate all shifts. Due to the close quarters and the high-risk nature of the work, there is a strong emphasis on teamwork and communication.
The environment is intensely focused on safety, with strict rules and procedures governing every task. Alcohol is prohibited, and regular safety drills are a part of the routine. Adherence to safety protocols is the highest priority for every member of the crew.