Temporary work for Offshore Rigs

According to figures released by Exxon, even during the height of the recession the price of oil still hovered at around $60 per barrel. The figures also show that as the global economy begins its slow recovery, the price of oil has lead the way in economic stability by achieving greater prices; already it is hitting an average of $70 per barrel. Oil has always been a great barometer of the world's financial health and it also points to new opportunities for those looking for offshore jobs, either on a temporary basis or more permanently.

High Prices Make for Bright Prospects

The price of oil is a major influence on the possibilities for those looking for an offshore job. During the recession, the oil industry reacted by freezing the wages of those in offshore drilling jobs and other offshore oil jobs, rather than opting for redundancies. The result was that, as global recovery began to take hold, the industry was in a strong position to return to work and optimize its profitability. Additionally various governments, including the US, offered tax breaks and other financial incentives to kick start the industry into operation. Also to be taken into account is the fact that, in order to keep up with consumer demand, further oil fields are being sought and discovered. This helps to keep the price of oil at a price that is good for both the oil industry and the global economy and opens the door for those looking for offshore drilling jobs and other associated work such as offshore gas jobs. It seems that even in the face of economic disaster, the oil and gas industry is virtually bullet-proof.

Job Potential

Because of the factors involved in re-establishing the oil industry after the recession, the prospects for those looking offshore oil jobs are at an all-time high. The need to find and process new oil fields has caused a sudden surge in vacancies for roustabouts and other temporary offshore oil jobs. Companies such as Exxon and BP have secured new oil fields in Brazil and Mexico, creating opportunities that need to be filled sooner rather than later.

Job Description

‘Roustabout' is a general term for all entry-level offshore oil jobs. What makes them attractive to many is that you do not need any experience in the field to qualify, making them a perfect option for those who are just starting out or who are looking for a change in direction but have no qualifications outside of their prior job. There are essentially three different sorts of roustabout: drilling, maintenance and rigging roustabouts. All roustabouts are essential to the smooth operation of any oil rig. Maintenance roustabouts are involved in the general care and maintenance of a platform, often working as assistants to the mechanics and welders. This work is particularly good for those who want to begin to forge themselves a career in the oil industry, as it offers a good foundation for the many career paths available. Rigging roustabouts work with the offshore crane operator, preparing and securing cargo for the supply barges, while drilling roustabouts work with the offshore drilling crews and can quickly work their way up the ladder to relieve roughnecks when they need to take a break.

Future Prospects

The perks for those in offshore jobs are many and varied. The work can be challenging and arduous, but workers are rewarded with good rates of pay and the opportunity to visit other countries whilst being paid. There are few industries that offer these bonuses and there are fewer industries that are so loyal to their workforce.