Jeremy Kaplan
Many people look for opportunities in the oil and gas industry because they can find high paying jobs. Tradespeople and technicians can be trained and qualified to work in this industry, and they often start as an apprentice as they learn their trade. Take a look at the top eight oilfield construction jobs.
Industrial Electrician
An industrial electrician is in charge of installing, maintaining, testing, and repairing industrial electrical equipment. They can plan out electrical systems and implement them, and they understand the technical specifications needed. They know how to diagnose faulty equipment and repair it. If you are interested in this job, you usually need a high school diploma and 4.5 years as an electrician apprentice.
Heavy Equipment Mechanic
Another type of construction job in the oilfields is a heavy equipment mechanic. In this job, you will repair, maintain, and adjust heavy duty equipment for any machines used in the oilfields. You will also operate the equipment. In addition, in this job, you will inspect the machines and equipment, and you will also make sure that any necessary preventative maintenance is done on different types of vehicles, such as excavators and bulldozers. This job also requires a high school diploma or the equivalent, and it is recommended to do an apprenticeship.
Rig Technician
One of the important jobs at the oilfields is operating the oil drilling rigs. There are three different types of rig technicians. The first is a motorhand, and this person maintains the drilling rig systems. The derrickhand operates and maintains the drilling fluid density. The third type is the driller. This person operates the rig and monitors all of the progress during the operation. This position doesn’t require a high school diploma, but they look for people who have been in an apprenticeship program or who have had an entry level job in the field.
Industrial Mechanic
An industrial mechanic is also called a millwright. This person installs, maintains, and repairs industrial machinery and mechanical equipment. They need to understand hydraulics, fuels, lubrication, cool, and exhaust systems, and they should have a high school diploma. They often have a two-year associate’s degree in Industrial Maintenance as well.
Pipefitter
Oilfields also need pipefitters. They will have skills for welding and fabrication, and they install, replace, and repair pipes. They need to be able to inspect pipes and diagnose any problems, and they also work with pneumatic and hydraulic equipment. The best way to become a pipefitter is to go to a trade school where you can get a degree in pipefitting. Then, you can become an apprentice to get the training and experience you need.
Heavy Equipment Operator
A heavy equipment operator drives large heavy equipment and helps with different projects in oilfields construction. They might use the equipment to build oil pipelines. They use cranes, bulldozers, front-end loaders, and backhoes. You need to have a high school diploma, and then you can get an associate’s degree or a certificate. Another option is to do your training on the job or get an apprenticeship.
Welder
Oilfield construction jobs also need welders who fuse metal parts together. They need to use hand welding tools, flame cutting tools, and blowtorches. They start by getting a high school diploma, but there are also technical schools where people can learn this trade. They can start out as apprentices to get experience in the field.
Insulator
Oilfields also need insulators. This job is one where you will insulate plumbing and pipes. You also repair pipes and maintain them. It is important that you know what type of insulation is needed in different conditions. After getting a high school diploma, you can become an apprentice to get this job.
