A roustabout is an entry-level position in the oil and gas industry, typically working on offshore or onshore drilling rigs, oil platforms, or refineries. They perform general labor tasks to support drilling operations, often serving as a stepping stone to more specialized roles like roughneck or derrickhand.
Key Responsibilities
General maintenance and cleanup of rig equipment and work areas.
Assisting with loading/unloading supplies, tools, and materials.
Performing basic repairs, painting, and welding under supervision.
Monitoring and maintaining safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers and life vests.
Helping with pipe handling, mud mixing, and other support tasks during drilling.
Required Skills and Qualifications
High school diploma or equivalent; no prior experience often needed.
Physical fitness for heavy lifting, climbing, and working in harsh conditions (., extreme weather, heights).
Basic mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn on the job.
Safety certifications like OSHA 10-hour or TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) may be required.
Ability to work long shifts (12-14 hours) in remote locations.
Work Environment and Salary
Often involves shift work on rigs, with potential for offshore assignments lasting weeks.
Average salary:
60,000 USD annually (entry-level), plus benefits like housing and meals on rigs.
Career progression: Can advance to roles like roughneck or driller with experience.
Rig Worker Job Profile
Rig worker is a broad term encompassing various roles on an oil or gas rig, such as roughneck, derrickhand, or driller. These are mid-level positions involving hands-on drilling operations. If you meant a specific rig role (., rig hand), clarify for more details. Below focuses on a general rig hand profile, which is similar to a roustabout but with more specialized tasks.
Key Responsibilities
Operating and maintaining drilling equipment, including pumps, winches, and mud systems.
Assisting in tripping pipe (inserting/removing drill pipes) and casing operations.
Monitoring well pressure, mud levels, and rig instrumentation.
Performing preventive maintenance on machinery and troubleshooting minor issues.
Ensuring compliance with safety protocols and environmental regulations.