Offshore roustabout
Keep the drilling equipment and area working properly on offshore facilities such as oil and gas rigs and drilling platforms.
Also known as: roustabout, roughneck, lead roustabout
About the job
What it's like
Ever wondered what it takes to keep a powerful offshore operation running smoothly in the face of the open sea? As an offshore roustabout, you'll be right there, making it happen!
You'll be hands-on, focusing on supporting drilling and maintenance teams by handling equipment, moving supplies and keeping the worksite safe and tidy. It’s exciting because no two days are the same — you’ll face new challenges, work with heavy machinery and learn practical skills that are valued worldwide. There’s a real sense of achievement in knowing your work keeps the platform running safely and efficiently.
You might be unloading supply boats, assembling rig equipment or helping with repairs. Offshore roustabouts are found in the oil and gas industry, mainly on rigs in the North Sea and other offshore fields. Some specialise in crane operations or move into more technical roles like roughneck or derrickhand as they gain experience.
Your tasks might include:
assisting with loading and unloading supply vessels
cleaning and maintaining deck areas and equipment
assembling and dismantling rig components
helping with basic repairs and routine maintenance
following strict safety procedures at all times
supporting skilled tradespeople during drilling operations
Explore more information about this job
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
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Engineering and manufacturing -
Energy
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- making decisions
- time management
- managing resources
- concentrating
- attention to detail
- observation
- problem solving
- verbal communication
- cooperating
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
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Engineering Science
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Practical Metalwork
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Skills for Work: Engineering Skills
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Foundation Apprenticeship: Engineering
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
There are no formal qualifications required to enter this role but some employers may ask for qualifications at SCQF level 4/5.
A common route into the industry is through an apprenticeship scheme.
Employers may look for qualifications at SCQF levels 4-6 for entry to an apprenticeship. For entry to an apprenticeship you would normally need to sit an aptitude test.
Qualifications and experience working with shipbuilding, construction or engineering is helpful.
Once in a job you may be able to gain relevant Scottish Vocational Qualifications such as the Offshore Drilling Operations (SVQ levels 1/2/3) developed with Offshore Petroleum Industry Training Organisation (OPITO) or a qualification through the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) would be useful.
An offshore survival course such as basic offshore safety induction and emergency training certificate (BOSIET)
To pass an offshore medical certificate
To pass colour vision tests
To be aged at least 18 years old for most offshore jobs
Find the right course for you
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