How to Get an Oil Field Job With No Experience

What Oil Field Drilling Jobs Involve

Oil field drilling jobs span a variety of positions, ranging from entry-level roles like roustabout and floorhand to more specialized jobs such as motorman, driller, or toolpusher. On both offshore and onshore drilling rigs, crews work together to operate equipment and extract oil and gas from below the earth’s surface. For those starting out, entry-level oil rig jobs require tasks such as cleaning, operating basic machinery, and assisting experienced team members. As workers gain experience, they can move up to roles like motorman—responsible for maintaining engines—or become drillers who oversee drilling operations. Oil field careers are known for quick advancement opportunities and strong pay but also come with demanding work environments.

Why Entry-Level Oil Field Jobs Matter Now

Oil field employment is essential to both the U.S. energy sector and to rural communities that rely on these jobs. The combination of industry growth and retiring workers is driving demand for new hires, including those with military backgrounds or those switching careers. Many companies are open to hiring people without prior oil field experience, making these positions accessible to a wide range of job seekers. The competitive labor market has prompted employers to advertise benefits such as paid CDL training, housing for remote sites, and sign-on bonuses for floorhand and entry-level positions.

Key Advantages: Pay, Perks, and Advancement

A significant draw of oil field careers is the earning potential. Entry-level workers can expect to earn $40,000 to $60,000 per year, with the possibility to reach $100,000 or more as they gain experience and work overtime[1]. High-paying roustabout jobs often include overtime pay and living stipends, further increasing overall compensation. For those working at remote locations, many companies provide housing—often in the form of man camps or barracks—during shifts. Schedules for rotational oil rig jobs typically offer two weeks on followed by two weeks off, allowing for extended periods away from work to travel, rest, or be with family. Offshore drilling jobs often come with added benefits and higher pay due to their challenging locations. Career progression is another strength of the industry. Reliable entry-level workers can advance quickly—many supervisors and drillers began their careers with no prior oil field experience. Employers often provide paid training, including CDL licenses and certifications necessary for offshore roles (such as TWIC, water survival, or H2S safety), giving workers the skills they need to grow.

How Oil Field Work Really Operates

Getting started in oil field drilling typically requires you to be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver’s license, and pass a drug screening. Some companies also offer paid CDL training to help new hires obtain the commercial licenses needed to transport equipment. Most beginners enter the industry as roustabouts or floorhands, learning through supervised, on-the-job training. Because projects frequently move between locations, traveling between sites is common in this line of work. Work schedules vary depending on the site. Offshore roles usually follow a 14-days-on, 14-days-off pattern, while onshore positions might have 7/7 or 14/7 routines. Shifts are generally 12 hours long, and housing is often provided for workers on rotation, especially for remote sites. For offshore jobs, required certifications like Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET) are usually provided by employers as part of onboarding.

The Challenges: Risk, Lifestyle, and Trade-Offs

Working in the oil field can be highly rewarding, but it also demands physical and mental resilience. Long shifts, rigorous manual labor, and hazardous work environments are all part of the reality. Dangers such as falls, machinery accidents, fires, and exposure to hazardous chemicals exist, though companies enforce strict safety protocols to mitigate risks. Weather conditions can be extreme, and working offshore means spending significant time at sea. Rotational schedules—while providing extended time off—require extended periods away from home, which can put strain on personal and family life. Some workers may have to relocate or travel frequently. Comparing offshore and onshore jobs, offshore positions often come with higher pay and greater benefits, but longer absences; onshore roles may offer shorter shifts and more predictable schedules closer to home.

Best Practices and Steps to Get Started

If you’re seriously considering an oil field job, preparation is key. Investigate companies known for hiring entry-level workers without prior experience or those that offer sign-on bonuses. Take advantage of opportunities to obtain paid CDL training or relevant safety certifications—they can make you a more attractive candidate. Reach out to those currently working in the field to learn about the realities of rig life and how rotational schedules might affect your lifestyle. Veterans and individuals with backgrounds in construction, mechanics, or commercial driving often transition smoothly to oil field roles. Ultimately, many workers find the career’s financial and growth opportunities rewarding, but it’s important to honestly assess your physical capabilities and expectations before making the leap.