Oil and Gas Transportation Operators

Have you ever dreamed of being behind the wheel of a heavy-duty industrial truck, moving specialized equipment and products from site to site? Your dream could come true if you choose a career as an Oil and Gas Transportation Services Operator.

Transportation Services Operators maneuver large trucks and their oversized loads, and also operate the specialized equipment they carry. Picture yourself rumbling down country roads, hauling equipment to and from the field. Perhaps you see yourself assembling, dismantling and transporting service rigs from one well to another.

Do you want a challenging work environment where every day is different? Do you think it might be fun to operate big, rugged equipment? Can you work as part of a team on a fast-paced job site? If so, read on and learn more about this interesting and challenging career!

What do Oil and Gas Transportation Services Operators do?

Oil and Gas Transportation Services Operators transport equipment, liquid and gas products, and other supplies used in the exploration, development and production of oil and gas. They operate specialized vehicles fitted with auxiliary equipment designed to perform various tasks. Typical jobs in this occupation include the following:

• Bed Truck Operators: Operate trucks designed with a flat deck, winch and pulleys that move rig buildings, derricks, matting and other oilfield equipment. They operate crawler-tractors equipped with large front blades to move obstacles and back rippers to tear up terrain. They also clear and level dirt, sand, rock and gravel on construction and mining sites.
• Bulk Haul Truck Operators: Operate trucks with a vessel or tank used to transport liquid, natural gas products, dry bulk commodities (e.g., cement) and other supplies.
• Multi-Wheel Truck Operators: Operate multi-wheel trucks consisting of a truck and trailer. They are used primarily for over-weight loads or loads requiring permits.
• Winch Tractor Operators: Operate a winch tractor which is a heavy-duty truck outfitted with a winch. Winches are used to load and unload rig loads onto trailers without the use of cranes. They are also used to transport loads requiring permits.
• Swampers: Assist Truck Operators in conducting pre-trip and post-trip inspections, loading and unloading trucks, dismantling and assembling drilling and service rigs, pump jacks and flare stacks. Swampers do not drive the trucks.

How do I become an Oil and GasTransportation Services Operator?

A high school diploma is preferred by most employers. You should have clean drug and alcohol test results. Employers also seek people in good physical condition with strong work ethics and willingness to learn. Once hired, the employer will provide you with safety and on the job training.

Truck Operators must hold the appropriate operator's licenses as required under the respective Traffic Safety Act of each province and territory.

What are the working conditions like?

Oilfield transportation operations are conducted 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, in all weather and road conditions. Transportation Services Operators may be required to work irregular work shifts with varying hours up to 15 hours per day and 7 days per week with a maximum driving time of 13 hours per day. They may be called to work with little or no notice. They may be required to work alone in darkness and in remote areas; however, safety protocols are strictly adhered to.

Some operations are near towns or cities and others are quite isolated. Travel and overnight stays in hotels, motels and possibly camps maybe required. There may be some exposure to potentially hazardous materials and equipment. Safety procedures and policies are strictly enforced for your protection.

Do I fit the bill?

Do you think you have what it takes to become an Oil and Gas Transportation Services Operator?

• I like to drive large vehicles.
• I have mechanical ability.
• I take a methodical approach to my work, and am good at trouble-shooting problems.
• I have the ability to concentrate in a fast-paced work environment.
• I can stay alert while I perform repetitive tasks.
• I am in excellent physical condition.
• I have good hand-eye and hand-foot coordination.
• I have good hearing and eyesight.
• I have good communication skills.
• I can follow directions.
• I enjoy working outdoors.
• I can work alone and with teams.
• I can work a variety of shifts and schedules.
• Safety is important to me and I'm committed to following and adhering to all safety procedures.
• I think a career as an Oil and Gas Transportation Services Operator sounds exciting and I'm up for the challenge and adventure!

Quick tips and next steps!

• Attend industry career fairs and speak to transportation services employers. Check with employment centres, educational institutions, newspapers, petroleum-related magazines and the internet for information on industry career fairs.
• Check out the website www.truckingcareers.ca for information and links to trucking career resources, publications and associations.
• Visit the Canadian Trucking Human Resources Council website, www.cthrc.com, for information on national standards for professional drivers, dispatchers and other related roles.
• Check out the Canadian Oilfield Service & Supply Directory, transportation category, at www.cossd.com.