How to Find the Best Offshore Jobs

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As the oil and gas industry experiences significant job growth, more and more people are turning to this area of employment as a possible career choice. While there are many positions available within the industry, some of the best and most numerous jobs are offshore positions. For those people who do not mind working on offshore platforms in isolated waters or at other facilities where long hours and much responsibility go with the territory, there are many avenues they can pursue to find the best offshore jobs hiring in their areas.

Technical Skills

While there are many jobs open in this field, companies around the world are always seeking those workers who have had training in electronics or mechanical maintenance. These jobs are in high demand due to newer and more technologically-advanced equipment being used on platforms and in manufacturing facilities. Recruiters for companies are always looking for applicants who have college degrees in these fields where salaries and benefits can be outstanding. For those without college degrees, but who have related experience and a positive can-do attitude, many companies now offer apprenticeships in an effort to fill jobs that stay vacant for long periods of time. No matter what path a person takes to get an offshore job, the good news is that the career paths offer many chances for advancement as well as additional training. For example, an employee who begins working as a roustabout can advance to a position as a rig manager or drilling superintendent after several years of experience and a work record that shows progressive learning and responsibility.

Contractor Positions

One of the most overlooked ways to gain employment with oil and gas companies is through third-party companies that provide services to offshore platforms, rigs, and manufacturing and distribution facilities. Many of these jobs are for maintenance, such as mud logging and cement contracting. However, other jobs such as Remote Operated Vehicle personnel are also needed for their special skills. For those who gain work through contractor positions, it often opens the door to other jobs within the oil and gas company. Networking is one way many people find entry-level jobs in this industry. Another way to find a job is by reading industry publications and knowing which companies are hiring.

Oil Rigs

Offering some of the most varied jobs within the industry, oil rigs can provide jobs in many different areas as well. Crane barges, geological survey vessels, offshore supply ships, safety vessels, and many others have served as the launching pads for careers in oil and gas. While most entry-level positions are for laborers, the jobs are considered to be great ways to learn from the ground up. For those who don’t mind working hard for a few years in order to gain valuable experience, oil rigs can serve as the starting point that can lead to high advancement on the career ladder.

By taking advantage of these opportunities, finding an offshore job that is the beginning of an adventurous career can be well worth the effort.