Roustabouts, Oil and Gas

Assemble or repair oil field equipment using hand and power tools. Perform other tasks as needed.

SOC: 47-5071.00

Common Job Titles

  • Floor Hand
  • Roustabout
  • Roustabout Hand
  • Roustabout Pusher

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • Hands-onOperate mechanized devices and heavy equipment including hoists, pumps, and forklifts on oil and gas drilling sites, following safety protocols and operational procedures.
  • KnowledgeOrganize work schedules and task priorities for equipment maintenance and repair activities in coordination with crew teams to minimize operational downtime.
  • Hands-onPerform equipment assembly and disassembly using hand and power tools in field conditions, adhering to mechanical specifications and safety standards.
  • KnowledgeInspect oil field equipment, structures, and materials for wear, damage, and compliance during routine maintenance cycles and under time-sensitive operational demands.
  • Hands-onExecute mechanical repairs on drilling equipment and auxiliary systems using specialized tools such as power impact wrenches and grease guns, often under supervision.
  • KnowledgeMonitor drilling processes, materials, and surrounding work environments using multi-gas sensors and oxygen testers to ensure operational safety and efficiency.
  • KnowledgeApply troubleshooting techniques to diagnose equipment malfunctions in remote oil field locations, coordinating with crew members and supervisors.
  • Hands-onManipulate rigging equipment including slings, shackles, and hoisting hooks to safely move heavy materials and equipment on drilling platforms.
  • MindsetParticipate in safety briefings and hazard communication with interdisciplinary oil field crews, demonstrating commitment to workplace safety culture.
  • KnowledgeDocument equipment maintenance records, inspection findings, and operational data using maintenance software and handheld data loggers to support compliance and quality control.

Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Roustabouts, Oil and Gas (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

45,330

Wage Distribution by Percentile

Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $35,650. 25th percentile: U.S. $38,330. 50th percentile: U.S. $47,510. 75th percentile: U.S. $57,170. 90th percentile: U.S. $64,010. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.

  • U.S.
MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$35,650
10% of workers earn the following or more$64,010
Workers on average earn$49,060

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Mechanical3.6/5
  • Customer and Personal Service3.1/5
  • Production and Processing2.5/5
  • Transportation2.5/5
  • Mathematics2.5/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge

Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

  • Microsoft Access
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office software
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Microsoft Windows
  • Microsoft Word
  • SAP software

Technology Skills

  • Database management systems
  • Enertia
  • Inventory management systems
  • Maintenance record software
  • Maintenance software
  • Microsoft Windows XP
  • Operating system software
  • Purchasing software
Tools & Technology: Technology Skills

Tools & Equipment

  • Adjustable hand wrenches
  • Air hoists
  • Air-powered sandblasters
  • Catheads
  • Centrifugal pumps
  • Chipping hammers
  • Cleaning scrapers
  • Deck grinders
Tools & Technology: Tools & Equipment