Drilling, oilfield servicing and seismic contractors, as well as
some pipeline companies, employ Field Workers. The jobs tend to be
routine in nature and training is done on-the-job. These
occupations provide a good entry point for the industry and assist
in the operation of the rig equipment when drilling, completing or
maintaining a well. This includes setting up, taking down and
servicing the rig equipment, and general clean-up of the rig area,
pipeline facilities and/or lease site. They may also assist with
reclamation and routine construction work.
If you have the following skills, interests and abilities a
career as a Field Worker might be for you:
- Ability to take direction and show
initiative.
- Stamina and flexibility to work
outdoors in any weather conditions.
- Tolerance for travelling to and
remaining in isolated locations for extended periods of
time.
- Willing to walk long distances in
uneven terrain carrying heavy loads.
- Enjoy outdoor physical activities and
operating all-terrain vehicles.
- Willing to travel on ATV's, boats,
helicopters and other wilderness transportation.
- Able to problem solve, trouble-shoot
and think quickly on your feet.
Education
These jobs do not require formal education higher than a high
school diploma. Health and safety certification is key for these
roles, and in some cases, a valid driver's license may be
required.
Safety-related certification (both required and optional) that
may apply to Field Worker occupations includes:
- All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV)
- Basic Safety Awareness
- Confined Space Entry
- Fall Protection
- First aid and CPR
training
- General Oilfield Driver Improvement
(GODI)
- Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) Awareness
and/or Alive
- Seasonal Training such as Wildlife
Awareness, Cold Weather and Wilderness Awareness
- Transportation of Dangerous Goods
(TDG)
- Well Control
- Workplace Hazardous Materials
Information System (WHMIS)
Employers may also have different requirements for the same
positions.
Career Paths
These are typically entry-level positions. Career advancement to
operators and trades may be possible with appropriate educational
qualifications, on-the-job training and completion of further
technical and/or apprenticeship training.
At Work
This work is very hands-on, physically labour intensive and
requires travel to project sites in sometimes remote locations.
Safety-sensitive positions have strict requirements related to
being drug and alcohol free.
Quick Tips & Additional Resources
Industry Associations