Entry Level Roustabout Jobs

Starting with entry level roustabout jobs, an ambitious employee can rise up the ranks quickly, and be the driller or even a drilling rig superintendent in a matter of only a few years.

The Roustabout position is the entry-level job an an oil drilling rig. Most people who get involved in oil drilling get there start as a roustabout. Though some do come straight on as roughnecks, there are advantages to starting as a roustabout. You get the chance to learn about drilling operations before you actually begin drilling; you are able to ease into a very demanding and potentially dangerous job when times are slow, and you have the benefit of those above you looking out for you and providing their years of experience to help you learn your new trade.   

Roustabouts work as a member of an oil rig's drilling crew, and are typically responsible for general labor on and around the rig, allowing the drill crew to focus on drilling rather than miscellaneous maintenance and cleaning. A Roustabout's duties might include digging trenches, assembly and repair of rig components, helping with moving rigs to new locations, and operating various mechanical equipments as needed.  Roustabouts are employed by drilling contractors, oil and gas producers, and well service companies.   

As a roustabout, you can expect to work long hours for up to 2 weeks at a time, with 2 weeks off after your hitch. The work is hard and very demanding physically, so you need to be in decent shape, or able to get that way.  The length of your hitch will vary from company to company, but typically ranges from 1 to 2 weeks on, with as much time off between hitches as on. If you prove a good worker, you will gain the opportunity to begin learning a roughneck or floorman's trade, observing his work and even providing relief on his breaks. 

Roustabout Job Duties

• Assembles and repairs oil rig equipment 
  
• Cleans equipment, drill and camp sites
  
• Minor maintenance and repairs, including lubrication
  
• Help move drilling rigs and equipment from site to site
  
• Assists with performing well development and pumping tests
  
• Help obtain drilling core samples
  
• Help with mixing and testing drilling fluids (mud)
  
• Operates various pieces of equipment and tools used to correct problems in drilled holes
  
• Other tasks as required

Wages

Wages for entry-level Roustabouts run from 50 to 60k

Getting a Roustabout Job

If working on one of these rigs appeals to your sense of adventure, you can learn how to apply and where to submit your resume for hundreds of available entry level oil rig jobs using The Oil and Gas Jobs Resource Kit.

If you are able to meet the job requirements and want to join a highly motivated oil rig drilling crew, you can apply with Rigworker for roustabout jobs.

Entry Level Roustabout Jobs Home