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 HandRoustaboutRoustabout HandRoustabout 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

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
Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

Microsoft AccessMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft WindowsMicrosoft WordSAP software

Technology Skills

Database management systemsEnertiaInventory management systemsMaintenance record softwareMaintenance softwareMicrosoft Windows XPOperating system softwarePurchasing software

Tools & Equipment

Adjustable hand wrenchesAir hoistsAir-powered sandblastersCatheadsCentrifugal pumpsChipping hammersCleaning scrapersDeck grinders