Are you interested in working on an offshore oil rig in the North Sea? If so, you may be wondering how much you can earn, what kind of career opportunities are available, and how to apply for such a job. In this article, we will answer these questions and more, based on the latest data and information available in 2023.
How Much Does an Offshore Oil Rig Worker Make?
The salary of an offshore oil rig worker depends on several factors, such as the position, the experience, the location, and the company. a typical North Sea worker earns an average of £540 a day, while someone at director level employed on a rig there can command around £900 a day. This makes the North Sea one of the highest-paying regions for the oil and gas industry in the world.
However, these figures are not fixed and may vary depending on the market conditions, the demand and supply of workers, and the fluctuations in oil prices. For example, during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, many offshore workers faced pay cuts, layoffs, and reduced working hours due to the low oil demand and the health and safety measures. Therefore, it is important to keep in mind that working on an offshore oil rig is not a stable or secure job, and it may involve risks and uncertainties.
What Kind of Career Opportunities Are Available?
There are many different types of jobs and roles on an offshore oil rig, ranging from technical and engineering positions to administrative and support roles. Some of the most common and lucrative offshore platform jobs are.
- Offshore drilling consultants: They supervise the daily operations of the rig and provide advice and consultation on several drilling issues. They coordinate with onshore supervisors and convey orders to on-site personnel to optimise rig production. They are also responsible for ordering new supplies and equipment, as well as maintaining the required number of workers on the platform at any point in time.
- Offshore installation managers: They manage all activity on an offshore platform, ensuring that production conforms to company rules and official regulations. They are trained to handle emergencies and are responsible for the health, safety and wellbeing of the workers on board. They also oversee the work and training of all platform personnel, as well as ensuring the timely maintenance and repair of equipment.
- Production/maintenance supervisors: They oversee the production and maintenance operations on the rig, ensuring that the equipment and systems are functioning properly and efficiently. They also monitor the performance and quality of the output, as well as troubleshoot any problems or issues that may arise. They report to the offshore installation manager and coordinate with other supervisors and workers on the rig.
- Subsea engineers: They design, install, operate, and maintain the subsea equipment and systems that are used to extract oil and gas from the seabed. They also ensure that the subsea operations are safe and environmentally friendly, as well as compliant with the industry standards and regulations. They work closely with other engineers and technicians on the rig, as well as with onshore specialists and contractors.
- Crane operators: They operate the cranes and hoists that are used to lift and move heavy equipment, materials, and personnel on the rig. They also ensure that the crane operations are safe and efficient, as well as follow the instructions and signals from the riggers and deck crew. They require a high level of skill and experience, as well as a valid crane operator certificate.
These are just some of the examples of the career opportunities available on an offshore oil rig. There are many other positions and roles that may suit your qualifications, skills, and interests, such as electricians, welders, mechanics, divers, medics, cooks, cleaners, and more. You can find more information about the different offshore jobs and their requirements on websites
How to Apply for an Offshore Oil Rig Job?
If you are interested in applying for an offshore oil rig job, you will need to prepare a resume and a cover letter that highlight your relevant education, training, skills, and experience. You will also need to have certain qualifications and certifications, depending on the position you are applying for. For example, you may need to have a degree or diploma in engineering, a valid offshore survival certificate, a medical fitness certificate, a passport, and a visa.
You can apply for an offshore oil rig job through various channels, such as online job boards, recruitment agencies, company websites, or personal contacts. You may need to go through several stages of screening and selection, such as online tests, phone interviews, face-to-face interviews, and assessment centres. You may also need to undergo a background check, a drug test, and a medical examination before you are hired.
Conclusion
Working on an offshore oil rig in the North Sea can be a rewarding and challenging career choice, as it offers high salaries, diverse opportunities, and exciting experiences. However, it also involves long hours, harsh conditions, physical and mental stress, and potential hazards. Therefore, it is important to weigh the pros and cons carefully before you decide to pursue this career path.
FAQs
If you have any questions or doubts about working on an offshore oil rig, you can refer to the following list of the 10 most asked questions and answers:
- Q: How long is a typical offshore shift?
- A: A typical offshore shift is 12 hours, with a break for lunch and dinner. However, some shifts may be longer or shorter, depending on the workload and the weather conditions.
- Q: How long is a typical offshore rotation?
- A: A typical offshore rotation is two weeks on and two weeks off, meaning that you work on the rig for 14 consecutive days and then have 14 days off. However, some rotations may be longer or shorter, depending on the company and the location.
- Q: What are the living conditions on an offshore oil rig?
- A: The living conditions on an offshore oil rig vary depending on the size, age, and design of the rig. Generally, you will have a shared cabin with a bunk bed, a wardrobe, a desk, and a TV. You will also have access to shared facilities such as bathrooms, showers, laundry, gym, recreation room, cafeteria, and internet. You will be provided with three meals a day, as well as snacks and drinks. You will also have to follow certain rules and regulations, such as wearing protective clothing, avoiding alcohol and drugs, and respecting the privacy and safety of others.
- Q: What are the main risks and hazards on an offshore oil rig?
- A: The main risks and hazards on an offshore oil rig include fire, explosion, gas leak, oil spill, equipment failure, human error, weather, and accidents. You will be trained and equipped to deal with these situations, as well as to follow the emergency procedures and protocols. You will also have to wear personal protective equipment, such as helmets, gloves, boots, and suits, at all times. You will also have to undergo regular safety drills and inspections, as well as report any incidents or injuries.
- Q: What are the main benefits and perks of working on an offshore oil rig?
- A: The main benefits and perks of working on an offshore oil rig include high salaries, bonuses, allowances, travel expenses, health insurance, pension, and training. You will also have the opportunity to work with a diverse and skilled team, as well as to learn new skills and technologies. You will also have the chance to travel to different locations and countries, as well as to enjoy the scenic views and the wildlife of the sea.
- Q: What are the main challenges and drawbacks of working on an offshore oil rig?
- A: The main challenges and drawbacks of working on an offshore oil rig include long hours, harsh conditions, physical and mental stress, and potential hazards. You will also have to cope with the isolation, boredom, loneliness, and homesickness of being away from your family and friends for long periods of time. You will also have to adapt to the different cultures and customs of the people and places you work with and visit. You will also have to deal with the uncertainty and instability of the oil and gas industry, as well as the environmental and social impacts of your work.
- Q: What are the main skills and qualities of a successful offshore oil rig worker?
- A: The main skills and qualities of a successful offshore oil rig worker include technical and practical skills, problem-solving and analytical skills, communication and teamwork skills, leadership and management skills, and safety and quality awareness. You will also need to have physical and mental stamina, resilience and adaptability, flexibility and reliability, and a positive and professional attitude. You will also need to have a passion and interest for the oil and gas industry, as well as a willingness to learn and grow.
- Q: How can I prepare for an offshore oil rig job interview?
- A: You can prepare for an offshore oil rig job interview by researching the company and the position, reviewing your resume and cover letter, practicing your answers and questions, dressing appropriately and professionally, arriving on time and prepared, and following up with a thank you note. You can also prepare by anticipating the common interview questions, such as:
- Why do you want to work on an offshore oil rig?
- What are your strengths and weaknesses as an offshore oil rig worker?
- How do you handle stress and pressure on an offshore oil rig?
- How do you work with others on an offshore oil rig?
- How do you deal with emergencies and hazards on an offshore