The Extraordinary Qualities to Offshore Drilling Jobs

• Tweet

• Tweet

As with today’s economy, offshore drilling jobs are not like they used to be. No longer just pulling mammoth machinery around an oil-soaked platform, technology has made an impact on the oil rig. Automated operations have replaced much of the manual heft once required. The opportunities for highly skilled workers who come with up-to-date training and a good attitude make for great opportunities.

How Offshore Drilling Jobs Are Different From Land-based Jobs

The first most significant difference with offshore jobs is how they get to work. Workers are airlifted in a helicopter to the drilling rig. There is no sitting in traffic burning fuel and losing precious time that can never be recovered. People working on a rig cut the commute and commit to a hitch where getting to work takes all of two minutes.

Getting off work is also different. Companies support their crew with a variety of amenities intended to provide the respite from labor to keep workers happy, relaxed and ready to return to their next shift. One hour after each tower, or 12-hour work shift, the popcorn is ready for the movies to start. Some rigs are outfitted with state-of-the-art gym equipment, saunas and hot tubs for relaxing. There are also games such as pool and ping pong tables for active enjoyment.

Workers Are Specifically Catered For

While leisure facilities may differ from rig to rig, the main purpose is to provide leisure and comfort in the downtime between towers. Meals are free and plenty – four times a day with snacks between meals. Accommodations vary from rig to rig, but the comfort of the workers is a primary concern of companies. Just as with meals, there is no expense for accommodations for those working offshore drilling jobs.

Each unit has catering personnel present to ensure the workers’ every need is attended to. The catering on a rig is serious; it has to be. The crew’s time is valuable on and off the clock and establishing an environment that caters to the benefit of worker comfort is essential to providing for the two to four week hitch.

The Work Schedule is Enviable

Work schedules are not typical to the land-based worker. With one day off for every day worked, a 14/14 schedule means there are two weeks of vacation every month. That does not preclude people from putting in extra hours if they want to.

Wages for Offshore Drilling Jobs Are Special

The wages are higher than most land-based jobs as the work is unique. Entry level roustabouts can earn between $1600 and $2600 each week, varying from company to company. With this kind of motivation, it is easy to become motivated to advance.

The work is diverse bringing many motivated people together in different work environments and locations. Cross training is always possible. What better way to find the best people to promote than from within? Ancillary opportunities in the offshore drilling industry include supply and crew boat companies, catering companies and many more.