Are you interested in a career that involves working outdoors, being physically strong, quick on your feet, and good with your hands? Consider becoming part of the drilling and service rig personnel in the oil and gas industry. These professionals work on oil and gas rigs, performing general labor duties and operating specialized equipment.

Roles and Responsibilities

Drilling rig personnel are responsible for setting up and using drilling rigs to find viable sites for oil and gas production. They work with equipment like derricks and draw-works to create the necessary force to bore holes into the earth. Once the target layer containing oil or gas is reached, service rig personnel take over to complete the well construction.

Job Descriptions and Skills

Service rigs, which are fully mobile units, are used to maintain, complete, and abandon oil and gas wells. They transport the necessary equipment to different well locations. In Alberta, drilling and service rig personnel can be divided into two groups: drilling and service rig laborers, and drilling and service rig operators.

Drilling and service rig laborers are the entry-level members of the crew. Leasehands, who work on drilling rigs, help with various jobs. Floorhands, who work on both drilling and service rigs, assist with the operation of power tongs and maintain rig cleanliness.

Drilling and service rig operators have more specialized roles, like motorhands who maintain mechanical equipment and derrickhands who handle drilling fluid systems. Drillers or operators supervise crews and ensure efficient operations.

Working Environment and Skills Required

Working conditions for drilling and service rig personnel can vary depending on the tasks, location, and weather. The job is mostly performed outdoors and in remote areas. Essential skills include mechanical aptitude, manual dexterity, communication, and safety-consciousness.

If you are interested in a hands-on, outdoor career away from home, drilling and service rig personnel may be the right fit for you. Start your journey in the oil and gas industry today!

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