How do I get hired on an oil rig?
Matthew Wilson
Published Mar 22, 2026
How do I get hired on an oil rig?
How to get a job on an oil rig
- Ensure you meet the requirements.
- Learn more about the oil industry.
- Choose a path.
- Gain relevant professional experience.
- Explore apprenticeship opportunities.
- Create a resume and cover letter.
- Apply for entry-level positions.
- Consider advanced education or training.
How much do rig workers make an hour?
Oil Rig Worker Salary
| Annual Salary | Hourly Wage | |
|---|---|---|
| Top Earners | $130,000 | $62 |
| 75th Percentile | $90,000 | $43 |
| Average | $75,511 | $36 |
| 25th Percentile | $32,000 | $15 |
What is the qualification for rig jobs?
Technical and mechanical background with extensive experience in mechanic systems, hydraulic equipment, etc; expertise in drilling fluids and the different drilling systems; previous safety training process, FLSBO (First Line Supervisor Blownout Prevention) and any other related courses are recommended; and at least 3 …
Is it hard to get a job on an oil rig?
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.
How long are oil rig workers away?
In offshore operations, workers often work 7 to 14 days in a row, 12 hours a day, and then have 7 to 14 days off. For offshore rigs located far from the coast, drilling crew members live on ships anchored nearby or in facilities on the platform itself.
What is the highest paying job on a oil rig?
The 10 most lucrative offshore platform jobs
- Offshore installation managers – $174,000-$247,000.
- Subsea/chemical process engineers – $75,000-$188,000.
- Geologists – $65,000-$183,000.
- Tanker captain – $75,000-$170,000.
How many oil rig workers died a year?
Offshore oil and gas rig accident statistics According to the BSEE, there were 6 fatalities and 222 injuries in 2019 on offshore oil rigs. Such figures are the most since 2010 when in that year alone there were 12 fatalities and 220 injuries.
Is it hard to get a job offshore?
Some people in offshore drilling will tell you to try and make the leap to water right away. While this is certainly possible, it’s harder without connections. The demand for offshore drilling jobs is very high, so don’t think you’ll be able to start without significant effort and relationship-building.
Is working on the rigs worth it?
It is no secret that oil rig workers stand to make an impressive paycheck, even in entry-level positions. Salaries for an entry-level oil rig position, such as a maintenance roustabout, average around $47,000 per year, with management positions making well over $100,000 per year.
Do females work on oil rigs?
While the oil and gas industry workforce is predominantly made up of men, more women are choosing a rewarding career offshore now than ever before. Two Transocean employees are offering their perspectives on what it is like for women working out on the water.
Do oil rig workers get paid well?
Oil rig workers make on average just under $100,000 a year, but salaries can vary widely depending on skills. NEW YORK (CNNMoney) — It may be dangerous, difficult work, but oil drillers are well compensated for the job: In 2011 the average salary for rig workers and other industry personnel was $99,175.
