Oil and Gas Roustabouts
Overview
Oil and gas roustabouts are the hands-on workers who keep oil drilling operations running smoothly by assembling and repairing equipment in the field. They handle pipes and machinery, detect and fix leaks using electronic tools, and maintain clean work areas on drilling sites. This physically demanding job involves working outdoors with power tools, cranes, and motorized lifts while collaborating closely with drilling teams. Strong mechanical skills and the ability to work in challenging environments are essential for success in this field.
Did you know?
Roustabouts face significant safety hazards and physically demanding work conditions, requiring strict adherence to safety protocols and maintaining good physical fitness.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$49,617.20 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top Skill
Equipment Selection
Key Responsibilities
- Dig holes, set forms, and mix and pour concrete into forms to make foundations for wood or steel derricks.
- Clean trucks used in the fields.
- Walk flow lines to locate leaks, using electronic detectors and by making visual inspections, and repair the leaks.
- Supply equipment to rig floors as requested and provide assistance to roughnecks.
- Dismantle and repair oil field machinery, boilers, and steam engine parts, using hand tools and power tools.
- Bolt together pump and engine parts.
- Dig drainage ditches around wells and storage tanks.
- Unscrew or tighten pipes, casing, tubing, and pump rods, using hand and power wrenches and tongs.
- Lay gas and oil pipelines.
- Guide cranes to move loads about decks.
- Move pipes to and from trucks, using truck winches and motorized lifts, or by hand.
- Clean up spilled oil by bailing it into barrels.
- Cut down and remove trees and brush to clear drill sites, to reduce fire hazards, and to make way for roads to sites.
Career Considerations
Safety and Physical Demands
Roustabouts face significant safety hazards and physically demanding work conditions, requiring strict adherence to safety protocols and maintaining good physical fitness.
Job Market Volatility
Employment in the oil and gas industry is highly susceptible to fluctuations in commodity prices, leading to periods of rapid hiring followed by potential layoffs.
Geographic Mobility Requirements
Most opportunities are concentrated in specific regions like Texas, North Dakota, and Alaska, often requiring relocation or extended travel for work assignments.