What It’s Like to Work on an Oil Rig: The Real Deal
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to work on an oil rig, you’re not alone. Oil rigs have a reputation for being tough, gritty, and not for the faint of heart—but also for offering big rewards for those who can handle the lifestyle. Whether you’re considering a job offshore or just curious about the oilfield life, here’s a look inside the daily reality of working on an oil rig.
Life on the Rig: A Unique World of Its Own
Oil rigs are self-contained worlds, often located miles offshore or in remote land-based locations. Workers live and work on the rig in 12-hour shifts, typically on a 14/14 or 21/21 schedule—that’s two to three weeks on the rig, followed by an equal amount of time off.
The Work Schedule
The standard day starts early—usually around 6 a.m.—and doesn’t end until 6 p.m., with another crew picking up the night shift. Days are long, physically demanding, and sometimes mentally taxing. But because of the rotation schedule, oil rig workers get extended time off—something few other jobs can offer.
Job Roles on an Oil Rig
Working on a rig isn’t just about hard hats and heavy lifting. There’s a wide range of positions available, each playing a crucial role in operations:
- Roustabouts & Roughnecks: The muscle of the rig, doing everything from cleaning and maintenance to assisting with drilling operations.
- Drillers & Toolpushers: Responsible for running the drilling equipment and supervising the crew.
- Engineers & Geologists: Use their technical expertise to make sure drilling is safe and efficient.
- Medics, Cooks, & Safety Officers: Ensure the crew is fed, safe, and healthy.
Each role requires different levels of training and experience, and there’s often a clear path for promotion for those who stick with it.
Living Conditions: No-Frills but Functional
Life offshore or in remote areas means sharing bunk-style rooms, common eating areas, and limited personal space. Meals are usually provided, and many rigs offer entertainment like satellite TV, a gym, or even game rooms to help workers unwind.
Wi-Fi access is often limited or restricted, which can make staying in touch with family difficult—but the payoff is usually worth it, with many oilfield workers earning six figures with no college degree.
Safety First—Always
Oil rigs are high-risk environments. From extreme weather conditions to working with heavy machinery and flammable materials, safety is a constant priority. Workers go through extensive safety training before stepping foot on a rig and are required to follow strict safety protocols at all times.
Is Working on an Oil Rig Right for You?
If you:
- Enjoy physical work
- Don’t mind being away from home for weeks at a time
- Want to earn a solid paycheck
- Can adapt to a rugged, team-oriented lifestyle
…then an oil rig job might be a perfect fit. It’s not an easy gig, but for many, it’s a life-changing one—with financial freedom, adventure, and strong career advancement opportunities.
Looking to break into the oilfield industry?
Check out the latest job listings on OilfieldGig, where we connect hard workers with solid opportunities in oil and gas. Whether you’re a seasoned driller or a new roustabout, your next gig is just a click away.