Rotary Drill Operators, Oil and Gas

Prepare and run a range of drills for extracting oil and gas from the earth, or for taking core samples for laboratory analysis, in the course of oil and gas exploration.

Career Snapshot

ABOUT OIL OR GAS ROTARY DRILL OPERATOR CAREERS

The globe is powered by oil and gas. Rotary drill operators are among those who aid in the access to these critical natural resources. They have the specialised knowledge to reach large fields of oil and gas concealed deep down, whether beneath a scorching desert or a raging sea. 

Drillers build a derrick at the site, guided by scientists' maps, to support the drilling equipment and stabilise the drill rig. This could be a time-consuming construction project. Then they begin to dig into the ground, cutting through rock strata. The driller takes rock samples to be tested for oil or gas presence. 

Drillers must keep a close eye on their progress and equipment. They keep meticulous written records and alter and repair equipment as needed. Workers in this industry are expected to work a lot of overtime. They are frequently sent to isolated drilling locations and may work for 10 to 20 days at a period before receiving time off. Drillers typically begin as roustabouts and develop skills on the job, progressing through positions of increasing expertise and higher compensation over time. 

Because rotary drill operators have the most responsibility for the drilling operation, they are paid the most. While jobs in this area are becoming more rare in the United States, experienced drillers are frequently engaged by American or foreign corporations to work abroad. This employment can pay well and allow you to travel throughout the world.

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Characteristics

Communication with others
Leadership
Level of responsibilities
Job challenge and pressure to meet deadlines
Competition for this position
Work closely with team members, clients etc.
Critical decision making
Dealing and handling conflicts
Physical demands
Exposure to job hazards
Exposure to extreme environmental conditions
Comfort of the work setting

Activities

Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Know More
Controlling Machines and Processes Know More
Getting Information Know More
Handling and Moving Objects Know More
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Know More
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material Know More
Performing General Physical Activities Know More
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment Know More

Areas of Study

Administration and Management Know More
Chemistry Know More
Education and Training Know More
Mathematics Know More
Mechanical Know More
Personnel and Human Resources Know More
Production and Processing Know More
Public Safety and Security Know More

Degrees

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Top Skills

Active Listening Know More
Coordination Know More
Critical Thinking Know More
Instructing Know More
Monitoring Know More
Operation Monitoring Know More
Operation and Control Know More
Speaking Know More