I had an interesting conversation last week with one of our readers, Sal from Louisiana, who works on an offshore oil rig in the Gulf. This is certainly a "dirty job" but I was impressed by how these places are actually self contained cities where as many as 200 people are living and working at any given time. Additionally, I had no idea how huge these rigs actually are. While I've seen them off the coast of California and we've cruised by them coming into the Mississippi, I didn't realize that these massive offshore oil platforms can stand almost 2,000 feet tall
Are You Happy With Your Job?
- Working on an offshore oil rig involves a structured routine of 12-hour shifts, alternating between work and rest.
- The job requires specialized training, including safety, sea survival, medical readiness, and mechanical skills.
- Living conditions on the rig offer essential amenities, limited internet access, and a unique sense of community amongst crew members.
- The work environment is high-risk, necessitating personal protective equipment, regular equipment maintenance, and emergency response plans.
- There are significant career growth opportunities, with progression from roustabout roles to positions of increased responsibility and salary.
- A Rig Worker's Daily Routine
- Skills and Training Required for Offshore Oil Rig Jobs
- Living Conditions on the Rig: A Unique Sense of Community
- Oil & Gas Industry Risks and Safety Measures
- Career Growth and Opportunities On An Oil Rig
- Global Offshore Oil Rig Work: Regional Differences and Opportunities
- Life on an Offshore Oil Rig: The Reality of Working at Sea
Based on his passionate enthusiasm about the industry, I decided to look a bit deeper and share more about this industry and what it would be like working on offshore drilling platform. Whether you are looking for a second career or have a son (or daughter) looking for a job, this industry certainly seems like one with a bright future!
Here's what he shared with us about his life as an oil rig worker ...
Working on an offshore oil rig, your day is structured around alternating 12-hour shifts. It's a high-risk environment that requires extensive safety training. Living arrangements involve shared spaces, fostering a unique sense of camaraderie. Limited internet access is a reality, but crucial items, from snacks to entertainment, are provided to keep the team happy. Specialty training and medical readiness is also key, This is a very dangerous job and while there are helicopters to take folks back to shore - any serious emergency needs to be delt with right there on the rig itself.
That's why regular maintenance of safety equipment and practicing for a robust emergency response plan are requirements. Rewards? Considerable career growth opportunities, moving progressively from roustabout roles to higher, better-paying positions. You can even move from labor jobs to office roles as you get older, and most companies provide educational reimbursements so that you can learn new skills.
For any guys who might be interested in trying something new, my advice is to prepare to immerse yourself in an extraordinary everyday life as you further investigate working on a rig as a possible career path!
A Rig Worker's Daily Routine
An offshore oil rig worker's typical day is based around 12-hour shifts, seven days a week. This is often organized as two weeks on and three weeks off. Some guys refer to this as a 14/21 shift.
Workers usually alternate between long periods of work and rest. Adjusting to the demands of their job in a high-risk environment can be initially tough for some men, but the benefits can be nice, like knowing that you don't have to rush to grab dinner and go to sleep so you can wake up again in a few hours.
Shared accommodations are common on offshore oil rigs, where workers live in close quarters with their colleagues. This fosters a strong sense of camaraderie among the crew as they navigate the challenges of working far from home. Many men come to the industry following military service, so this is a familiar experience for them.
Overcoming communication barriers is another key aspect of daily life on an offshore oil rig. While some of the guys may have come from small towns where they didn't know many people outside of their families, this can be a real eye-opener. Workers come from diverse backgrounds and may speak different languages, requiring them to find ways to communicate effectively to ensure safety and productivity.
Skills and Training Required for Offshore Oil Rig Jobs
Working on an offshore oil rig requires specialized training and a unique skill set to thrive in its challenging environment. However, there are plenty of entry-level positions and on-the-job training. Likewise, for Safety training is paramount, as you'll be working with heavy machinery and hazardous materials. Understanding and following safety protocols is crucial to prevent accidents and respond effectively in emergency situations.
With literally dozens of different jobs available on oil rigs, from doctors and nurses to housekeeping, the skills, training, and educational requirements obviously will have quite diverse requirements. However, to give you guys a sample, here are four of the most common labor jobs that men might consider if they want to work on an offshore oil rig.
| Job Title | Description | Required Skills and Training | Educational Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roustabout | Entry-level manual labor position, responsible for keeping the deck area clean and assisting in various operations |
|
High School Diploma or equivalent |
| Derrickman | Responsible for the drilling equipment and operations at a high position on the derrick. |
|
High School Diploma or equivalent |
| Mud Engineer | Manages the properties of the drilling fluid (mud), crucial for drilling performance and safety. |
|
Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry or related field |
| Toolpusher | Senior management role, supervising the drilling crew and ensuring operations run smoothly. |
|
High School Diploma; this role on a rig often requires further vocational training or an Associate's Degree |
These roles vary widely in responsibilities, from general maintenance to specialized management, each requiring specific skills and training to ensure safety and efficiency on the rig.
Due to the rig's remote location, sea survival training is essential. A critical training component is being prepared to handle sea-related emergencies, such as abandoning the rig, using lifeboats, and surviving at sea until help arrives. Even though these offshore rigs aren't designed to move once they are put in place, they are essentially naval vessels and so standard marine training is essential for safe operation.
While not covered in typical resumes, roughnecks need to have a good constitution, an excellent sense of humor, and a tough attitude. Everyone will have a bad day occasionally, and this is a tough place that will test even the strongest man's ability to keep his stuff together.
Living Conditions on the Rig: A Unique Sense of Community
While the job may be demanding, the living conditions on the oil rig are thoughtfully designed to prioritize comfort and convenience for the workers. Accommodations are shared, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie among the crew. You'll have access to essential amenities to unwind after a long day, such as a well-equipped kitchen to prepare meals and a recreation area to relax and socialize.
While every off shore oil rig is different, managers understand that this is a tough job with long hours spent away from home. As such, recreation and leisure is a critical part of maintaining a strong and healthy team in such a remote location.
Recreation and Leisure on Offshore Oil Rigs
- Fitness Centers: Fully equipped gyms with cardio equipment, weights, and sometimes basketball courts or exercise rooms for group activities
- Entertainment Spaces: Movie theaters, game rooms with pool tables and video games, TV lounges with satellite access, and music rooms
- Social Areas: 24-hour dining halls, coffee stations, common rooms for gatherings, and dedicated spaces for special events
- Communication Hub: Internet cafes, Wi-Fi zones (with limited bandwidth), and computer stations for staying connected with family
- Comfort Facilities: Laundry services, quiet lounges, outdoor viewing areas, convenience stores, and spaces for religious observance
Despite the remoteness of the rig, staying connected with the outside world is challenging but feasible. Limited internet access is available to communicate with loved ones and share your experiences. Living on an oil rig requires adaptability and resilience, but it also forges strong bonds and cultivates personal growth.
While this lifestyle may not appeal to everyone, it offers a distinctive sense of belonging for those who embrace the challenge. The rig community is unlike any other, where you share a workspace and living quarters, meals, and leisure time. It's an environment that, despite its difficulties, can transform into a second home for those willing to embrace its unique dynamics.
Oil & Gas Industry Risks and Safety Measures
Safety measures on an oil rig should always be a top priority for all personnel. Regular safety training is essential to ensure that everyone is aware of potential hazards and knows how to respond in case of an emergency.
Personal Protective Equipment
Personal protective equipment, such as hard hats, safety glasses, and fire-resistant clothing, should be worn at all times to minimize the risk of injury. Additionally, all equipment should be properly maintained and inspected regularly to prevent malfunctions that could lead to accidents.
Emergency Response Plans
Emergency response plans should be in place, and drills should be conducted regularly to ensure that all personnel know how to react in emergency situations. By prioritizing safety measures on an oil rig, the risk of accidents can be significantly reduced, creating a safer working environment for everyone involved.
Education And Safety Education Never Stops
While an oil rig may seem like a small city, it is actually one giant machine. Everyone will end up learning a little bit about everyone else's job and how various parts of the platform work. From checking a Kunkle valve to looking for cracks and stress points in pipes, constant vigilance is required for everyone to stay safe.
Implementing these safety measures requires a collaborative effort from all personnel on the oil rig. Communication is key to ensuring everyone is on the same page regarding safety protocols and procedures. Encouraging a safety culture where all employees feel comfortable reporting hazards or unsafe conditions is crucial in preventing accidents. Regular safety meetings can also help keep safety at the forefront of everyone's minds and provide a platform for discussing any concerns or suggestions for improvement. By working together to prioritize safety measures on an oil rig, the entire team can contribute to a safer and more secure work environment.
Career Growth and Opportunities On An Oil Rig
Yes, a career on an offshore oil rig offers significant opportunities for growth and advancement. Starting as a roustabout, you can progress to roles such as driller, tool pusher, or installation manager with dedication and skill.
Each promotion not only increases your responsibilities but also boosts your salary. The oil industry values experience and expertise, allowing you to earn more as you learn.
Moreover, the challenges and duties of offshore work can enhance your marketability. Many companies provide training programs for skill development and certifications, offering pathways to roles in various oil industry sectors or emerging fields like renewable energy.
Global Offshore Oil Rig Work: Regional Differences and Opportunities
The location of an offshore oil rig significantly impacts everything from work schedules and safety protocols to living conditions and compensation packages. Understanding these regional differences can help workers make informed decisions about their career paths in the industry. While you might initially think that the idea of moving from a cold weather spot like Alaska, Canada, or Montana to a warm tropical spot in the Gulf of Mexico is your only option ... US and Canadian workers are often aggressively recruited to work on oil platforms in other parts of the world too.
Gulf of Mexico: Year-Round Operations with Hurricane Risks
The Gulf's warmer climate allows for more consistent operations throughout the year, though the June-to-November hurricane season can require periodic evacuations. Rigs here typically operate with a mix of American and Latin American crews, creating a diverse workplace culture. Living conditions are comfortable but generally more compact than North Sea facilities. The proximity to shore means shorter helicopter transit times and more flexible scheduling options for workers.
North Sea Operations: Extreme Weather and Premium Pay
Working in the North Sea off Norway, Scotland, and the UK demands exceptional resilience due to harsh weather conditions. Workers face frequent storms, frigid temperatures, and waves that can reach 100 feet in winter. However, these challenging conditions are offset by some of the industry's highest compensation packages and stringent European safety standards. Living quarters tend to be more spacious and modern, reflecting stricter regional regulations and the need to keep workers comfortable during extended periods of indoor confinement due to weather.
West African Operations: Cultural Diversity and Extended Rotations
Rigs off Nigeria and Angola typically operate on 28/28 rotations with premium pay to attract international workers. Operations emphasize cultural integration and community building, though infrastructure may be less developed than other regions. Security considerations and local regulations create unique workplace dynamics that require additional adaptability from crew members.
Southeast Asian Waters: Tropical Challenges
Platforms in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam face distinct monsoon seasons and high humidity challenges. Work schedules accommodate local customs, while living conditions feature diverse cuisine options but simpler quarters. The region's expanding energy market offers strong career growth potential for those willing to embrace local cultures.
Australian Operations: Remote Excellence
Australian rigs maintain exceptional safety and living standards but face extreme isolation. Crews enjoy well-appointed facilities and premium compensation packages, offset by longer transit times and extended deployments. The focus on recreational amenities helps maintain morale in these remote waters.
Life on an Offshore Oil Rig: The Reality of Working at Sea
Life working on an offshore oil rig is a unique blend of routine and adventure. Workers typically follow a 14/21 schedule (two weeks on, three weeks off) with 12-hour daily shifts. The work environment is demanding and high-risk, requiring constant safety awareness and specialized training. Living quarters are shared, creating a tight-knit community atmosphere among the 200+ crew members who call these massive structures home.
While the job demands physical stamina and mental resilience, it offers substantial rewards. Entry-level positions like roustabout require minimal education but provide thorough on-the-job training. Career advancement is achievable through experience and additional certifications, with opportunities to progress from manual labor to supervisory roles. The pay is competitive, and the extended time off allows for work-life balance despite the intensive work periods.
However, this career isn't for everyone. Success requires adapting to limited communication with the outside world, sharing living spaces, and maintaining focus in a high-risk environment. For those who can embrace the challenges, working on an offshore oil rig offers a stable career path with strong earning potential and a unique workplace community.
