Career Path to Offshore Oil Rig Work: Education, Skills, and Safety

Considering a career on an oil rig? While there are several routes to joining the offshore oil and gas industry, starting from the ground up is crucial. In this article, we will explore the necessary steps, including the educational background, required skills, and critical safety certifications needed for success in the field.

Starting as a Laborer

For those with a strong work ethic and a desire to start at the bottom, many career paths begin by finding an inshore oil rig and working as a laborer for approximately two years. This experience is invaluable as it builds a solid foundation and provides a chance to network within the industry. Notably, despite the demanding nature of offshore work, the number of female workers is limited. If you are a woman interested in this field, you may face unique challenges, but persistence and hard work can help overcome these obstacles.

Educational Background

The most direct path to offshore work is through a specialized degree in Petroleum Engineering. However, a range of other engineering disciplines can also lead to successful careers in the oil and gas industry, including Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, and Geology. These fields prepare you for working in a variety of roles and companies within the sector.

Trade Skills

For those preferring a more hands-on approach, there are numerous trade skills that can provide entry points into the industry. These include scaffolding, welding, electrician, large current mechanics, non-destructive testing (NDT) operators, and cooks. Once you have demonstrated proficiency in these areas, opportunities to work offshore may become available.

Success Stories

An example of a successful transition to offshore work involves starting as a kitchen staff member in a chain-type restaurant. After gaining several years of experience, the individual was promoted to Sous Chef and later applied to offshore catering companies. Similarly, working as a drill crew member typically begins as a Roustabout, and knowledge of rigging and slinging can significantly increase your chances of securing an entry-level position. To increase your chances, consider temporarily working in an onshore company service base in a city like Aberdeen, Perth, or Houston, where you can learn the necessary skills and ask for offshore positions.

Necessary Certifications

Alongside your experience, several key certifications are required before you can work offshore:

Offshore Medical Certification: Ensure you meet the health requirements for offshore work. Offshore Survival Ticket: A 3-5 day course covering firefighting, lifeboat operations, and helicopter escape techniques. In the UK, this is known as the BOSIET (Basic Oil and Gas Industry Emergency Training) course. Minimum Industry Safety Training: Understand the safety protocols and procedures specific to your area of work.

While these certifications are crucial for your career, they do count as a requirement to be hired. If you are still exploring your career path, it's essential to describe your personal inclinations and why you are interested in offshore work. The offshore industry is filled with technology and demands many skills, not all of which are required, but a solid foundation will always help.

Conclusion

Whether you pursue a formal education or develop trade skills, the path to becoming an offshore worker requires dedication, perseverance, and often a bit of luck. The industry offers unique challenges and rewards, and with the right approach, you can climb the ranks and become a valuable member of an offshore team.