Roustabout
The roustabout performs much of the unskilled labor on the oil rig. They perform a variety of maintenance tasks on the oil rig to ensure that it is functioning properly. They may clean up trash, hook up hoses, maintain tanks and do other tasks, as needed. It is physically demanding work with long hours and generally good pay.
Roughneck
The roughneck is a position above a roustabout. These workers may assist welders and pipe fitting in constructing and maintaining the rig. The position requires more training and experience than the roustabout, and offers the potential for greater advancement.
Welder
Oil rigs are constructed from a number of different materials that are subject to wear and corrosion from salt water. The welder is needed to keep these structures in good condition to ensure the safety and productivity of the other workers.
Mud Logger
The mud logger collects and analyzes the rock and mud that comes out of the wellbore to determine the composition, using a number of scientific instruments. The mud logger must have a bachelor’s degree in geology or related engineering discipline.
Toolpusher
The toolpusher, also known as the oil rig manager, supervise all the operations on the rig and manage tasks such as payroll, safety and productivity. Many toolpushers start out as roustabouts and receive additional training that leads to certification in well control procedures and drilling processes.
Tourpusher or Lead Driller
The tourpusher acts as deputy to the toolpusher and performs whatever functions the toolpusher determines are necessary for the efficient operation of the rig. These duties may be ensuring that the rig functions according to the standards of the oil company, and all safety regulations that may apply.
Engineer
A variety of engineering positions are available to ensure the proper setup and maintenance of the rig regarding all of its operations. The temperatures and pressures involved in extracting petroleum through drilling operations require constant monitoring of a variety of operational processes. Engineers with a background in mechanical, chemical and geological processes may be used to ensure the safe and productive operation of the rig.