You could do an apprenticeship before applying to work on offshore rigs, such as an Engineering Operative Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship or a Maintenance and Operations Engineering Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

You may be able to apply directly for jobs if you've got experience and qualifications related to oil, gas, engineering or construction.

You'll need:

• the ability to work well with others
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
• problem-solving skills
• physical fitness and endurance
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• the ability to work well with your hands
• knowledge of public safety and security
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

You'll need to:

• complete basic offshore safety induction and emergency training
• be over 18 years of age
• have an offshore medical certificate

As a roustabout, you'll:

• clean and look after the drilling deck and equipment
• prepare drilling equipment for others to use
• check pipes for leaks and report them
  
• help technicians repair pumps, drills and leaks
  
• operate lifting gear to unload and store supplies and equipment

You could work on a rig.

Your working environment may be physically demanding, outdoors in all weathers and at height.

You may need to wear protective clothing and safety clothing and use safety equipment.