Oil companies are always looking for a few good men, and women, to work on their offshore oil rigs. The money is not, bad but the work is hard and conducted in difficult conditions with an ever-present danger of injury or death. Companies do their best to compensate their employees for the boredom and close quarters that are part of working on the rig. They know that keeping workers happy means more productivity and lessen the likelihood of accidents.
Accommodations: Each "day", regardless of which shift you work, begins with a wake-up call in the form of a knock on the door. Food, laundry and maid-service are provided just as though you were on a cruise ship; however, you will be sharing a very small room with up to three other individuals.
Safety: Safety is a big issue, both from an individual and from an overall perspective. There are many ways to get hurt on an oil rig; additionally the rig itself can be endangered along with the lives of everyone on board when precautions are not taken.
You will be required to wear a hardhat, safety glasses and steel-toed boots, all provided by the company, whenever you are on the working portion of a deck. Safety regulations are numerous and sometimes annoying. Even something as minor as not grasping a railing when going up or down steps can result in a scolding; platforms tend to shift unexpectedly. Wearing jewelry, including wedding bands is prohibited as well.
As one would expect there is a real concern about fire on an oil rig and no one is allowed to bring matches or lighters on board. On some rigs, however, smoking is permitted in a designated smoking room and safety matches are provided.
Schedule: Rigs are operational 24 hours a day and shifts are 12 hours long. Depending on the company you work for, you will either be working 14 days followed by 14 days off or a 14 and 21 on/off schedule. Each shift is broken-up by a "morning" and an "afternoon" break as well as lunch.
Food: Breaks are taken in work gear and at "tea shacks", were beverages and cakes, rolls and other snacks are available. For lunch, you take off your work gear and eat in the galley. Generally food is catered and of a good quality. Meals and snacks are provided free. Occasionally, suppers revolve around a theme such as Mexican, Italian or Chinese.
Entertainment: Television and DVD's are available as is internet service for computers. Many rigs even boast a small gym and a sauna. Ping Pong is pretty much standard on oil rigs as well.
Working on an offshore oil rig pays well but isn't for everyone. You have to ask yourself if you can stand working and living in close quarters with bunch of other people. It takes a positive attitude and a willingness to go the extra mile necessary to avoid accidents and confrontations. If you can make the adjustment, you can work your way up into positions with more responsibilities and even better pay.
