How many hours do you work in the oil field?
Andrew Campbell
Updated on December 27, 2025
A lot of oilfield jobs will require you to work extended hours, perhaps 12-14 hours per day. I’ve actually worked 34 in my longest stretch. Depending on your job role, you may have to work until the job is complete. Other jobs work 12 hour shifts and you swap out with the night or day crew.
How many hours a week do oilfield workers work?
Because the work on an offshore rig is never ending, the majority of workers are required to work 12-hours shifts, seven days a week, for seven to 28 days at a time. Additional overtime is required on an emergency or project basis. It is not uncommon to work upwards of 80 hours per week.
How much time off do oil rig workers get?
Part of the reason that offshore oil rig worker pay is high is to offset the difficult working conditions and risks associated with the job. Workers often face 14/21 shifts, meaning that they work for 14 days straight, followed by 21 days off.
How much do oil rig workers make a week?
Oil Rig Worker Salary
| Annual Salary | Weekly Pay | |
|---|---|---|
| Top Earners | $130,000 | $2,500 |
| 75th Percentile | $90,000 | $1,730 |
| Average | $75,511 | $1,452 |
| 25th Percentile | $32,000 | $615 |
Is alcohol allowed on oil rigs?
Keeping an oil rig operational for 24 hours a day means that it’s crucial for offshore personnel to be at the top of their game at all times; generally alcohol and non-prescription drugs are completed banned.
Is working on an oil rig worth the money?
Working on an oil rig is an absolutely great choice for some people due to it’s high pay and general lifestyle. It’s not a good job for everyone though, so make sure you think it’d be worth it for you before you get your first job on a rig.
Is there WIFI on oil rigs?
All rig need to be equipped with internet connection as all essential drilling and formation data needs to be sent back to office for decisions. Yes, as Ryan says, the wifi service is given at the discretion of the rig provider.
Do oilfield workers make good money?
Oil rig workers make on average just under $100,000 a year, but salaries can vary widely depending on skills. NEW YORK (CNNMoney) — It may be dangerous, difficult work, but oil drillers are well compensated for the job: In 2011 the average salary for rig workers and other industry personnel was $99,175.
Can you use a cell phone on a oil rig?
Taking pictures on an offshore oil rig is serious business. For starters, due to the risk of flammable gas coming up the oil well, normal electronics are banned outside the living quarters. Smartphones are strictly forbidden and regular cameras require “hot work permits” be opened prior to use.
Do oil rigs have gyms?
Despite the tight space oil platforms also have various amenities such as gyms, pool tables, TV and even cinemas. As with the food, it is essential for the people working on the platform to have the opportunity to unwind and relax, so employers are providing the means.
What is the highest paying oilfield job?
Below is a list of some of the highest-paying oil field jobs with their primary duties and salary information:
- Gas plant operator. National average salary: $41,541 per year.
- Well testers.
- Chemical engineer.
- Sales representative.
- Petroleum geologist.
- Vessel manager.
- HR adviser.
- Drilling engineer.
How much do oil rig owners make?
What are Top 10 Highest Paying Cities for Crude Oil Owner Operator Jobs
| City | Annual Salary | Monthly Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Sunnyvale, CA | $263,670 | $21,973 |
| Santa Cruz, CA | $261,233 | $21,769 |
| Santa Rosa, CA | $255,344 | $21,279 |
| Williston, ND | $250,198 | $20,850 |