Have you ever wondered if roustabouts make good money? If you’re considering starting a career in the oil and gas industry, then you might be wondering if roustabouts get paid well enough to support themselves and their families. Well, the answer is: it depends.
Roustabouts are entry-level workers who perform various manual labor tasks on drilling rigs, such as setting up and tearing down equipment, cleaning up spills, and assisting in the drilling process. While the work can be physically demanding and sometimes dangerous, roustabouts can earn a decent wage.
In fact, according to recent reports, the average annual salary of a roustabout is around $45,000 to $50,000. However, this number can vary depending on several factors such as location, experience and the company they work for. So, if you’re interested in pursuing a career as a roustabout, it’s important to do your research and find out what kind of salary you can expect in your specific area.
Job Description of a Roustabout
A roustabout is an entry-level worker in the oil and gas industry who performs a wide range of manual labor tasks. Most of their work is done outdoors in all kinds of weather conditions, and their job responsibilities can vary depending on their employer and the rig they work on. Overall, the job of a roustabout is physically demanding and requires a lot of hard work, but it can also be rewarding in terms of pay and career growth opportunities.
- Assist with rigging up and down equipment
- Move equipment and supplies around the rig
- Maintain the cleanliness and appearance of the rig
- Assist with the setup and operation of drilling equipment
- Help load and unload drilling tools and supplies
- Paint and perform other routine maintenance tasks
Roustabouts work on offshore drilling rigs or land-based sites, and often work in rotation with other crew members. They are typically required to work long hours, 12 hours per day or more, and may work shifts that last two weeks or longer at a time. In addition to manual labor tasks, roustabouts may be called upon to assist with more technical duties such as operating drilling controls or monitoring gauges.
Salaries for roustabouts vary depending on their location, the type of rig they work on, and their level of experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for roustabouts in the United States was $39,020 in May 2020. However, many roustabouts earn much more than this, especially those who work in the oil-rich states of Texas, North Dakota, and Louisiana. Roustabouts may also receive additional benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid vacation time.
Entry-Level Salary for Roustabouts
For those considering a career as a roustabout, it’s important to understand the expected entry-level salary. Roustabouts typically start at an hourly wage, with an average of around $18 per hour. This amounts to an annual salary of approximately $37,000.
- This starting salary may vary depending on the oil rig and company you work for. Factors such as experience, location, and certifications can also impact your salary.
- Even though the starting salary may not be high, many roustabouts have the potential to earn higher wages through overtime and the possibility of promotion.
- It’s also important to note that many oil companies offer benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off that can add value to your overall compensation package.
Here’s a breakdown of the starting hourly wage for roustabouts in various industries:
| Industry | Starting Hourly Wage |
|---|---|
| Oil and Gas Extraction | $18.42 |
| Support Activities for Mining | $17.94 |
| Heavy and Civil Engineering Construction | $17.49 |
It’s important to keep in mind that roustabouts often work long hours and may be required to work in harsh weather conditions. However, for those who are willing to work hard, gain experience, and pursue opportunities for promotion, the potential to earn a higher salary is within reach.
Opportunities for Career Advancement
For those interested in pursuing long-term careers in the oil and gas industry, there are several opportunities for career advancement beyond the role of a roustabout.
- Field Supervisor: As a roustabout gains more experience and knowledge about oil rig operations, they may be promoted to the role of field supervisor. In this position, they would oversee a team of roustabouts and be responsible for ensuring that all tasks are completed safely and efficiently.
- Driller: Another potential career path for roustabouts is becoming a driller. After gaining several years of experience working on an oil rig and demonstrating strong leadership and technical skills, a roustabout may be promoted to this role. Drillers are responsible for managing the drilling crew and overseeing the drilling process.
- Engineer: Some roustabouts may choose to pursue a degree in engineering and transition into an engineering role within the oil and gas industry. These professionals are responsible for designing and implementing new technologies and techniques to improve oil rig operations.
It’s important to note that there are often additional education and training requirements for these positions, but the potential for career growth and increased earnings is significant. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for petroleum engineers (a common career path for former roustabouts) was $132,280 as of May 2020.
In addition to these more traditional career paths, roustabouts may also find opportunities for advancement in related fields such as environmental health and safety or project management.
| Career Path | Median Annual Salary (May 2020) |
|---|---|
| Field Supervisor | $72,140 |
| Driller | $54,280 |
| Petroleum Engineer | $132,280 |
Overall, while roustabouts may start off earning relatively modest salaries, there are many opportunities for career advancement within the oil and gas industry. Whether through promotions to supervisory or managerial roles, pursuing further education and training in engineering or related fields, or transitioning to other areas of the industry such as environmental health and safety, former roustabouts have a wide range of options for increasing their earning potential over time.
Factors Affecting Roustabout Salaries
Working as a roustabout in the energy industry can be a challenging and demanding job. Despite these challenges, many people are attracted to the field because of the high earning potential. However, roustabout salaries can vary depending on several factors, including:
- Location: Salaries can vary significantly based on the location of the job, with higher salaries being offered in areas where there is a high demand for labor. For example, roustabouts working in offshore oil rigs may earn more due to the harsh working conditions and the need for specialized skills.
- Experience: As with most jobs, experience can play a significant role in determining roustabout salaries. Those with more experience may be able to negotiate higher salaries or be more competitive for higher-paying job openings.
- Employer: The type of employer can also impact roustabout salaries. Typically, larger companies with more resources will be able to offer higher salaries and benefits packages compared to smaller operations.
Another critical factor that can impact roustabout salaries is the current state of the energy industry. During times of economic downturn, companies may be less likely to hire new workers or offer competitive salaries. Similarly, fluctuations in oil prices can also impact job availability and salaries in the industry.
The Impact of Education and Training on Roustabout Salaries
Education and training can also play a significant role in determining roustabout salaries. While many roustabouts may start their careers with little formal education or training, there are opportunities for skill development and career advancement.
Some roustabouts may choose to pursue additional education or training to specialize in specific areas of the energy industry, such as the installation or maintenance of drilling equipment. Those with specialized skills and training may be more competitive for higher-paying job openings or able to negotiate higher salaries.
Employers may also offer on-the-job training programs or apprenticeships to help workers increase their skills and knowledge. These programs can be highly valuable for workers looking to advance their careers and increase their earning potential.
| Education/Training Program | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| High School Diploma/GED | $34,000 |
| Associate Degree in Applied Science | $41,000 |
| Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering | $63,000 |
It’s important to note that earning potential can vary significantly based on individual circumstances and other factors, such as work experience and job location. However, pursuing additional education or training can be a valuable investment for anyone looking to increase their earning potential in the energy industry.
Comparing salaries of roustabouts to other entry-level jobs
One of the top questions people have when considering a career as a roustabout is how their salary compares to other entry-level jobs. Here’s what you need to know:
- According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national average salary for a roustabout is around $40,000 a year.
- While this may seem low compared to other jobs, it’s important to note that roustabouts often work in remote locations and are compensated with benefits like room and board, transportation, and overtime pay.
- Compared to other entry-level jobs, such as fast food workers, retail sales associates, and receptionists, the salary of a roustabout is typically higher.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that pay varies greatly based on experience, location, and employer. Some companies may offer higher salaries and better benefits than others.
Here’s a breakdown of the average salaries for some other entry-level jobs:
| Job | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Fast Food Worker | $22,000 |
| Retail Sales Associate | $25,000 |
| Receptionist | $31,000 |
While roustabouts may not make as much as other skilled trades in the oil and gas industry, such as pipefitters and electricians, it is still a viable option for those seeking a stable, well-paying job with opportunities for advancement. Plus, the skills and experience gained as a roustabout can lead to higher-paying jobs in the future.
Unions and Negotiations for Better Wages
As a roustabout, joining a union can be a smart move if you’re looking for better wages and benefits. Unions are organizations that represent and negotiate on behalf of employees in a particular industry or trade. By joining a union, you gain access to collective bargaining, which means negotiating as a group rather than as an individual. This can be especially helpful when negotiating wages and benefits.
- Unions can often negotiate better pay and benefits than individual employees can on their own. They have more leverage in negotiations, and the power of collective bargaining means that employers are more likely to take their demands seriously.
- Unions can also provide job security. They negotiate contracts with employers that often include clauses preventing layoffs without just cause or without following a specific process.
- Some unions also offer additional benefits, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid vacation time.
It’s important to note, however, that joining a union may also come with additional costs, such as union fees or dues. Additionally, some employers may be resistant to unionization and may even retaliate against employees who try to unionize.
If you’re considering joining a union, it’s important to do your research and weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks. Look for a union that represents workers in your industry and has a track record of successful negotiations.
| Example Union | Industry | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| International Brotherhood of Teamsters | Transportation and logistics | Health insurance, retirement plans, paid vacation |
| United Steelworkers | Metalworking and mining | Job security, better pay and benefits |
| Laborers’ International Union of North America | Construction and public sector | Wages and benefits negotiation, health and welfare plans |
Overall, joining a union can be a promising option for roustabouts looking to earn better wages and secure additional benefits. Do your research, consider the potential costs and benefits, and find a union that represents your interests.
Future outlook for roustabout job market.
Despite the oil and gas industry’s recent downturn, the future outlook for roustabouts is positive. As the industry recovers, roustabouts will be in demand once again. There are several factors contributing to this optimistic outlook:
- Retiring workforce: Many roustabouts are reaching retirement age, and the industry will need to replace them with new workers.
- Increased drilling activity: As oil prices rise, drilling activity is expected to pick up, creating more job opportunities for roustabouts.
- New technology: As the industry continues to innovate, new technologies will create new demand for roustabouts, who will need to adapt and learn new skills.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of roustabouts and oil and gas operators is projected to grow 4 percent from 2019 to 2029, about as fast as the average for all occupations. The continued growth of domestic oil and gas production and advancing technology will likely require more workers to drill new wells and to service and maintain existing ones.
Here’s a table showing the projected job growth for roustabouts and oil and gas operators:
| Occupation | Employment, 2019 | Projected Employment, 2029 | Numerical Change, 2019-2029 | Percent Change, 2019-2029 | Typical Education | Median Pay, 2019 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roustabouts, Oil and Gas | 76,600 | 79,700 | +3,100 | +4% | No formal educational credential | $37,810 per year |
| Oil and Gas Derrick Operators | 12,200 | 12,400 | +200 | +2% | No formal educational credential | $50,550 per year |
The median annual wage for roustabouts was $37,810 in May 2019. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $24,960, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $60,180.
Overall, while the oil and gas industry can be volatile, the future outlook for roustabouts is positive, with projected job growth and a decent median wage. For those interested in the industry, pursuing a career as a roustabout could be a smart move.
Do Roustabouts Make Good Money?
1. What is a roustabout?
A roustabout is an entry-level worker in the oil and gas industry who performs general labor duties such as cleaning, maintenance, and transportation.
2. How much do roustabouts typically make?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for roustabouts in the oil and gas industry is around $33,000 per year. However, pay can vary widely depending on experience and location.
3. Are there any benefits to working as a roustabout?
Many oil and gas companies offer benefits packages to their employees, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
4. What kind of work schedule do roustabouts usually have?
Roustabouts often work long hours and irregular shifts, including nights and weekends, to ensure 24/7 operation of oil and gas operations.
5. Are there any opportunities for advancement as a roustabout?
Yes, roustabouts may be able to move up to higher-paying positions such as derrick operators or drillers with additional training and experience.
6. What are the job prospects like for roustabouts?
The demand for roustabouts in the oil and gas industry can fluctuate along with oil prices and global demand for energy, but there are often job openings available for those with the right skills and experience.
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We hope this article has provided you with useful information about the earning potential of roustabouts in the oil and gas industry. If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a roustabout or exploring other job opportunities in the energy sector, be sure to check out our other articles for more insights and advice. Thanks for visiting, and we hope to see you again soon!