Jobs on Petrol Platform: A Complete Guide to Careers Offshore

Introduction

Jobs on Petrol Platform. Working on a petrol platform, often called an oil rig or offshore drilling platform, is one of the most challenging yet rewarding career paths. These jobs provide high salaries, international exposure, and a unique lifestyle. At the same time, they demand resilience, teamwork, and the ability to thrive in a tough environment.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to work on a petrol platform or what jobs are available, this article will guide you through the opportunities, skills required, salaries, and lifestyle offshore.

What is a Petrol Platform?

A petrol platform is a large offshore structure built to drill, extract, and process oil and natural gas from beneath the seabed. These platforms often operate in remote locations, far from land, and can accommodate hundreds of workers living and working together for weeks at a time.

Why Work on a Petrol Platform?

• High Pay: Offshore jobs are known for competitive salaries.
• Travel Opportunities: Workers often move across international waters.
• Unique Lifestyle: Living on the platform offers an adventurous and close-knit community.
• Job Security: Oil and gas remain key global industries, creating steady demand for workers.

Types of Jobs on Petrol Platforms

1. Drilling Crew Jobs

These are the backbone of a petrol platform:

• Roustabout: An entry-level role involving maintenance, cleaning, and assisting other crew members.
• Roughneck: Works directly on the drill floor handling machinery.
• Derrickhand: Manages drilling fluids and supports the drill pipe operations.
• Driller: Supervises the drilling team and controls drilling equipment.
• Toolpusher: Senior supervisor responsible for all drilling operations.

2. Engineering and Technical Roles

• Petroleum Engineer: Designs drilling methods and ensures efficiency.
• Mechanical Engineer: Maintains heavy machinery and equipment.
• Electrical Engineer: Handles power systems on the platform.
• Subsea Engineer: Specializes in underwater equipment and pipelines.

3. Health, Safety, and Environmental Jobs

• HSE Officer: Ensures safety compliance and environmental protection.
• Medic/Paramedic: Provides medical care to workers on board.

4. Support and Hospitality Roles

• Catering Staff: Cooks, cleaners, and stewards maintain living quarters.
• Logistics Coordinator: Manages supply deliveries and crew changes.

5. Management and Supervisory Jobs

• Offshore Installation Manager (OIM): The highest authority on the platform, responsible for overall operations.
• Production Supervisor: Oversees oil and gas extraction processes.

Skills Required for Petrol Platform Jobs

• Physical Fitness: Work can be physically demanding.
• Technical Knowledge: Especially for drilling, engineering, and maintenance roles.
• Teamwork: Workers live and work together for weeks at a time.
• Problem-Solving Ability: Quick decision-making is crucial in emergencies.
• Adaptability: Offshore environments can be unpredictable.

Working Conditions on a Petrol Platform

• Rotational Shifts: Typical schedules are 2–4 weeks on the platform followed by 2–4 weeks off.
• Living Quarters: Shared cabins with modern facilities.
• Work Hours: Long shifts, often 12 hours a day.
• Weather Challenges: Platforms may face harsh seas and storms.

Salary Expectations

Salaries vary based on role, experience, and region:

• Roustabout: $30,000–$45,000 per year.
• Roughneck: $45,000–$60,000 per year.
• Driller: $70,000–$100,000 per year.
• Engineers: $80,000–$150,000 per year.
• OIM (Manager): $120,000–$200,000 per year.

Offshore jobs often come with additional benefits such as insurance, bonuses, and paid travel.

How to Get a Job on a Petrol Platform

1. Start with Entry-Level Roles: Roustabout or catering jobs are the easiest entry points.
2. Gain Relevant Training: Courses in offshore safety, first aid, or technical skills boost employability.
3. Build Experience Onshore: Experience in construction, mechanics, or engineering helps.
4. Apply Through Oil Companies: Major employers include Shell, BP, ExxonMobil, and Transocean.
5. Work with Recruitment Agencies: Specialized offshore staffing agencies connect workers with openings.

Training and Certifications Needed

• Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET): Mandatory for most offshore roles.
• Helicopter Underwater Escape Training (HUET): For those traveling by helicopter to rigs.
• Medical Certificate: Proof of physical fitness.
• Specialized Courses: For engineers, electricians, and drillers.

Conclusion

Jobs on petrol platforms are not for everyone, but they offer excellent pay, adventure, and global career opportunities for those ready to face challenges. From entry-level roustabouts to highly skilled engineers and managers, the offshore industry provides a wide range of roles. With the right training, certifications, and determination, you can build a successful and rewarding career on a petrol platform.

FAQs

Q1: Do I need prior experience to work on a petrol platform?
Not always. Entry-level roles like roustabout or catering staff often require little to no prior offshore experience.

Q2: How long are workers away from home?
Most shifts are rotational, such as 2–3 weeks offshore followed by 2–3 weeks at home.

Q3: Is offshore work dangerous?
While there are risks, strict safety protocols and training significantly reduce hazards.

Q4: What is the age limit for working offshore?
Most companies prefer workers between 18 and 55, depending on health and physical fitness.

Q5: Can women work on petrol platforms?
Yes, women work in engineering, safety, hospitality, and management roles offshore.