How to find a Job in the Oil and Gas Industry

There are a lot of reasons people want to work in the Oil and Gas Industry, but you always have to look at both sides of the issue.  For a lot of people, the benefits outweigh the costs.  The oilfield has created opportunities for many people that otherwise would not be able to find such a high paying job. This is the case, especially, for many of the entry-level positions such as roustabouts, painters, etc.  If you have a college degree, you can expect an above average starting salary when starting your career in the field - plus, this will give you much needed experience in the future.

These opportunities do come at some disadvantages, and it takes a special person to be able to work the oilfield lifestyle.  You will have to realize that you will spend at least half of your year in the middle of the ocean, away from your friends and family.  There are many different schedules when working offshore, but commonly it will be seven days on followed by seven days off (otherwise known as 7 & 7), 14 & 7, 14 & 14, and when working overseas, often 28 & 28.  While drilling rig workers are often on these types of schedules, service hands are often on 24 hour call, and can be called offshore at any time.

If you are able to handle being away from your family for these shore periods of time, you may want to make the decision to start your offshore career.

Finding a job in the oilfield is much like finding a job in any other profession. 

Businessweek.com reports that 70% of jobs are found by networking.  So these best way to find your first oilfield job is from someone already in the industry.  If you do not know anyone, talk to your friends, family, or teachers and let them know you are looking for a job in the Oil and Gas Industry.  You never know when you will run into someone who will be willing to help you.

You can always hit the pavement and apply directly to various oilfield companies.  Or, you can apply directly to their websites.

If you do not know anyone in the oilfield industry, the second best way to find a job on a drilling rig is to go to a dedicated Oil and Gas career site.  There are quite a few good ones out there, but we would recommend VeeDoor.com's oilfield jobsite.

You will need to go through quite a few training classes before going offshore.  Many companies pay for the classes once you are hired on, but some people pay for and take the classes themselves to help them get the job.  They are not cheap, so finding a company to train you would be the best idea.

Here are a few of the classes that you will need before your first hitch.

1. Safegulf
2. CPR & First Aid
3. Confined Space Entry
4. Fall Protection
5. Lockout / Tagout
6. HUET
7. Water Survival
8. PPE
9. H2S
10. Fire Fighting
    

These are just a few of the Courses you will need.  Many of these topics are covered within one class. 

The first time you go offshore will be an amazing experience!  It is a wonder the amount of technology used today in the oilfield, especially on the deepwater projects. 

Take some time to get used to your surroundings.  Pay careful attention to your escape routes in case of an emergency, always look overhead for cranes lifting equipment from boats or moving it around the rig, and be watchful of all moving parts. 

Most importantly, do your best to learn everything you can about the rig and always give a 100%.  You want to make a good impression by not only working hard, but working smartly.  Remember, there is a lot of room to move up in this industry and a lot of money to be made. 

Lastly, being the new guy on the rig may make you the butt of some jokes.  Take it all in stride and remember that you will not always be the new guy.

After your hitch is over.  Get ready to fly home!