Oil Rig Roughneck Jobs
Many people who begin working in oilfields start out by working
as roughnecks. This position is an essential one even though
it may be at the bottom of the ladder in the scale of pay
in the industry.
This is not to say that roughnecks don't earn a high wage
of pay, because that's simply not the case.
Many roughnecks work long hours and the work is generally
hard but the pay is very good, as are all jobs in the oil
and gas industry.
The majority of people finding work in the oil and gas industry
start out by working as roughnecks.
Some of the duties that roughnecks are responsible for can
include cleaning up spilled oil and bailing it into barrels
set up for just this purpose.
They also handle all mechanical tasks that need to be taken
care of on the oil rig and drilling platform.
This can mean everything from using manual wrenches to compressed
air tools to perform the work.
Many people, who start out as roughnecks, go on to be promoted
to higher-paying and more responsible positions, such as a
driller or eventually oil rig toolpusher, in a relatively
short period of time.
When pipes need to be tightened or loosened it's the roughneck
who'll be doing all the work.
The same is true for any pump and engine parts that need to
be taken care of on the rig deck.
The roughneck is responsible for checking the oil flow and
making sure that there are no leaks in the pipes and fittings
anywhere along the line.
Basically, all the manual jobs on the oil rig or platform
are handled by roughnecks either working alone or in teams.
Roughnecks should have a good knowledge of mechanical systems,
be skilled at working with hand and power tools, as well as
being able to repair any tools that they use that break down.
Being trained in safety protocols and emergency procedures
is also something that a roughneck on an oil rig should know.
Knowing how the oil industry works and the importance that's
placed on production methods is also essential for a good roughneck.
The ability to check and maintain systems and machinery on
the job are also very important to the daily requirements of
this position.
