CAREERS on oil rigs are often popular with applicants looking for a job that doesn't require a university degree – but offers a good salary.
From how much oil rig workers earn to what you need to succeed – here's everything you need to know.
What is an oil rig worker's salary in the UK?
According to the National Careers Service an oil rig worker or a ''roustabouts'' salary will vary depending on experience.
Those starting out on an oil rig can expect a salary of £18,000 where as those with more experience can take home up to £30,000.
It is important not to confuse this salary with that of an offshore drilling worker.
Although both jobs require individuals to work on an oil rig, they are two separate roles.
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An oil rig worker will maintain equipment, unload supplies and assist the drilling team.
Where as an offshore drilling worker will drill for undersea oil and gas.
The National Careers Service set an offshore drilling workers salary at £20,000 for a starter and £60,000 for those with more experience.
How can I become an oil rig worker?
To become an oil rig worker you will first need to take one of two routes.
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The first option available is to apply for an apprenticeship in your local area.
For example, you could do an engineering apprenticeship before applying to work on offshore rigs, such as:
- An engineering operative intermediate apprenticeship
- A maintenance and operations engineering advanced apprenticeship
The second route you could choose is to apply directly to a company of your choice – however, this may first require experience and qualifications from engineering, construction or other areas of the oil and gas industry.
To become an offshore drilling worker the process is slightly different – with more options available.
The routes you can follow include:
- Applying to a college course
- Completing an apprenticeship
- Gaining experience while working towards this role
- Applying directly
If you're hoping to attend college in order to gain the necessary qualifications for this role, an engineering related course like a Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Engineering may help you to get started.
What qualifications do I need to become an oil rig worker?
If you're looking for a role that requires no previous qualifications then becoming an oil rig worker might be the job for you.
Unlike many other careers, generally an oil rig worker does not need any formal qualifications such as GCSE's or A-Levels – this may vary depending on the company you apply to.
However, you will need to complete basic offshore safety induction and emergency training course, be over 18 years of age and have an offshore medical certificate.
Your employer will put you through safety training, and with experience, you could become a crane operator, or a roughneck – working on drilling operations.
With even further training, you could become a derrickhand, driller, or be a commercial diver – repairing drill pipes underwater.
The same requirements apply for those hoping to become an offshore drilling worker.
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Career progression for offshore drilling workers could see employees working for operating companies with their own exploration and production licences, or for drilling and maintenance contracting companies.
With further experience, you could be promoted from driller to toolpusher or rig manager.
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