- According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of September 2009, the average hourly wage of those who worked on oil rigs was $27.71. As of 2008, it was estimated that rig workers who are gaugers, refinery operators, and petroleum pump system operators make an average of $54,640 per year. Roustabouts who work in the oil and gas industry average around $31,640 annually and wellhead pumpers average a yearly salary of $40,090. The highest paid oil extraction workers are petroleum engineers and geoscientists.
- Working on an oil rig can be very dangerous. Offshore installations are hazardous places and safety is not guaranteed. Workers may have to deal with blowouts, gas leaks, falling pipes, and exposure to toxins. There are a wealth of safety regulations and procedures for individuals who work on an oil rig, but the threat of accidents still remains. In 2008, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported 21 work related fatalities.
- International opportunities are available for oil rig workers. According to Oil Rig International, individuals have opportunities to work in different countries. This is enticing for people who want to interact with individuals from various cultures and backgrounds. Working on an oil rig gives an individual the chance to interact with people from other parts of the world.
- Individuals must meet certain requirements before they can work on an oil rig. First, a person must be in good physical health and pass a drug screening. Oil rig workers must be at least 18 years old; the average age of offshore workers is 27.
- The employer usually pays for all the employee's costs, including food, board, travel, and other expenses. Benefits packages are also common with oil rig jobs. The benefits package usually includes medical and dental insurance, a 401k plan, vacation time, and life insurance.
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