These days, more and more people from all walks of life are looking for jobs on an oil rig. Some are just entering the workforce, while others are ready for a change of career. These jobs are in high demand for a variety of reasons:
Unlike other career paths, there is no single way to get a job on an oil rig. Depending on your education level, experience and skill set, there are many different entry points to getting a job on an oil rig. Each of these jobs comes with its own set of qualifications and entry routes.
For those with minimal education or who may not have finished secondary school, entry level oil rig jobs include floorhands, welders, stewards. and galley hands, These jobs typically involve the shortest “hitches,” or lengths of time, and are paid on an hourly basis. Average yearly wages for these jobs start at $32,000 per year.
For those who have completed high school, a job as a derrickman, driller or roustabout is a good place to get started. These oil rig jobs require no prior experience, and start at a median salary of about $41,970 per year.
Those with prior oil rig experience may be able to start with a new company in a higher position, such as an oil rig manager or “toolpusher.” An average salary for an oil rig manager is about $56,540, with some earning as high as $85,000 per year.
For those who have completed a more advanced degree in a relevant field (e.g., in engineering) who have demonstrated leadership experience (e.g., a former marine officer), an acceleration program may be available that offers a job with more challenges and responsibilities as well as higher pay. These jobs may start at salaries around $130,280 and climb as high as $200-300,000 or more at the top level.
Every drilling company is different. However, there are a few constant elements in how to get a job on an oil rig.
Be aware that this career path is not for everyone. Many jobs on an oil rig involve work that is highly physical and requires you to maintain optimal health and fitness in order to perform your duties well. Even those jobs that are more technical in nature require the ability to perform well under stress. The long intensive periods alone with your crew can take a toll on your psyche and your relationships back home.
Fortunately, there are ways that experienced oil rig workers have found to overcome these hardships and reap the rewards of oil rig work over a long, fruitful career. The keys to thriving in a job on an oil rig are personal determination, perseverance and initiative.
Oil rig work can be highly demanding. Due to the nature of the job, it may present various injury risks and hazards that aren’t present in other types of careers. For instance, offshore oil rig work may expose workers to hazards like:
This is not to discourage a person from applying for an oil rig job — many find it to be meaningful work that pays well and often comes with various benefits. However, it’s always good to know what you’re getting into when you’re applying for any type of oil rig job, as it is a highly unique line of employment.
If you are ever injured while working in an oil rig setting or environment, there are several steps you should take. These will help improve your physical recovery as well as your chances at obtaining proper compensation. If you are injured, you should:
An injury lawsuit may be needed to ensure that you receive just compensation. Treatment and other costs might not always be covered by insurance or workers compensation. A lawsuit can help you obtain damages that cover costs such as:
A qualified lawyer can help ensure that you receive any damages you may be entitled to. Your ability to recover damages often depends on the skill and experience of the attorney handling your claim.
Oil rig careers can be rewarding and may offer many avenues for promotion and advancement. However, such jobs can often involve complex laws and legal issues, especially if an injury occurs on site.
If you or a loved one need any type of assistance in connection with an oil rig injury, contact Pierce Skrabanek immediately at (832) 690-7000. Our attorneys have extensive experience in handling oil rig injury cases, maritime law issues, and other related claims. Call us to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your legal rights and options.