Entry requirements
Even though the job does not require specific qualifications, previous experience in areas such as engineering, construction or shipbuilding will be helpful. Another method of joining the industry is through an apprenticeship scheme. Employers may require the applicant to have qualifications in math, English and one more relevant subject such as technology, design and/or science.
Obviously, you must be 18+ years old, and sometimes an Offshore Medical Certificate is required for you to work on oil rigs. Survival and safety training will also be needed. This is usually completed before you join an oil rig.
Qualities, interests and skills
To be a good offshore crew employee, you need to have:
- Physical fitness
- Safety and health awareness
- Willingness to follow instructions and learn
- Good leadership skills
- Willingness to work and live away from home
- Ability to work and live as a team member
- Good practical skills
The work
It is common for offshore deck crew jobs to require basic laboring tasks as part of keeping the drilling area in good working condition. Most employees will work under a supervisor or site manager. The work includes:
- Lubricating the drill bit by mixing the ‘drilling mud’
- Helping in the repair of pumping equipment
- Stacking and loading equipment by using winches and lifting gear
- Moving equipment and supplies to the work site
- Moving supplies to storage area after offloading them from boats
- Painting, scraping and cleaning the work, equipment and deck areas
If your performance is good and you show initiative, there is chance of being promoted. Once you get the promotion, you may be required to carry out duties that are more skilled and part of the actual drilling process. These include:
- Using winches, ropes and lifting gear
- Repairing, cleaning and maintaining the drilling equipment
- Extracting and inserting the whole drill
- As the drill moves deeper into rock, you will need to add new lengths of drill pipe
Hours
It is typical for employees to work and live on a platform or rig for 14 to 21 days with a similar period for rest onshore. However, the duration varies depending on the work involved and the employer. Employees will require dot work up to 12 hours a day using a 24-hour shift rotation. There are different areas of work. For instance, you may work on a small mobile rig with a team of about 20 people, or on a fixed production platform that has 100 workers. Facilities in such environments include recreation areas, canteens and accommodation. Take note that smoking and alcohol are banned. The job is physically demanding and you are required to wear protective clothing including a thermal boiler suit, ear defenders and a harness.