Can Someone with Little or No Experience in Construction and/or Heavy Machinery Become an Offshore Oil Rig Worker?

Becoming an Offshore Oil Rig Worker with Little Experience

Entrepreneurs, aspiring workers, and those transitioning to new careers often wonder if they can become an offshore oil rig worker with little or no experience. Indeed, it's entirely possible to be hired for some entry-level positions, despite a lack of experience in construction and heavy machinery. These roles are typically labor-intensive and provide a good starting point for those interested in the industry. Some common entry-level positions include roustabouts, who perform a variety of essential, but often menial, tasks.

Roustabout: An Entry-Level Position on an Oil Rig

A roustabout is one of the most common entry-level positions on an offshore rig. In this role, you would handle a wide range of tasks, including deck cleaning, operating cranes to move materials, and performing maintenance on various parts of the rig. While the job is labor-intensive and may seem rudimentary, it serves as a learning opportunity. You can work your way up through the deck department, potentially becoming a crane operator or even moving to the drilling floor where you could become a roughneck, derrickman, assistant driller, or driller. This progression takes years of experience and learning, so don't expect to rise through the ranks quickly.

Despite the slow climb up the career ladder, roustabouts typically receive well-compensated pay, especially for their initial work. They also enjoy a 14/14 schedule, meaning they receive a day off for every day they work on the rig. Working in domestic waters provides stability with predictable workloads and schedules, making this a particularly attractive option for those starting out. However, for those aspiring to work offshore, there are alternative paths.

Alternate Routes to Offshore Oil Rig Work

Alternatively, you can start your journey in the industry on land. Potential routes include working on a workover rig or even drilling water wells, which provide valuable, albeit shorter experiences. These roles can give you the practical knowledge and on-the-job training necessary to transition to offshore work later on. You might also consider entering roles such as a mudlogger or drilling fluids technician. While you won't spend as much time out on the rig, these positions still contribute to your overall experience and industry knowledge.

Certification and Training for Offshore Oil Rig Work

In Canada, for example, as for many other countries, rig workers need to demonstrate a level of knowledge and understanding of the industry. Initial job candidates are often asked to have prior courses or training in the oil and gas sector. They must be able to comprehend what the job requires and be tested in various aspects of rig operation. Safety is the primary concern, and candidates must take strict safety courses to learn the protocol for safe rig operation and understand emergency response procedures. Rig workers must be highly attuned to safety, as each worker's life may depend on the vigilance and skills of every team member.

Those deemed suitable will be paired with a qualified area operator who acts as a mentor and evaluates the trainee. Once competency is demonstrated, trainees typically complete a written test as a formal record of their training completion and are then assigned to a specific area on the rig. Working on a rig demands a significant amount of endurance. The environment is often cold, wet, and physically demanding. However, for those who are dedicated and experienced, it can be a highly rewarding career.

Offshore oil rig work offers a unique blend of challenges and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Whether you start as a roustabout or take a different route, the industry provides a clear path for advancement with the right dedication and hard work.