Oil and Gas Service Unit Operator

Your Fit

Income

$86K

Preparation

Some

Growth

0.1%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is an Oil and Gas Service Unit Operator?

An Oil and Gas Service Unit Operator is a specialized technician who operates equipment for the exploration and extraction of oil and gas. They handle the machinery used in drilling, servicing wells, and extracting natural resources.

Sample job titles:

Pulling Unit Operator, Rig Operator, Service Operator, Service Rig Operator

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Oil and Gas Service Unit Operator.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does an Oil and Gas Service Unit Operator earn

Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2024 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Oil and Gas Service Unit Operator.

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$50K per year	$62K per year	$86K per year	$114K per year	$140K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $21K above the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does an Oil and Gas Service Unit Operator do?

Work environment

These operators typically work in outdoor field environments, often in remote areas. The work setting can include onshore oil fields or offshore platforms. The job involves exposure to all kinds of weather, potentially hazardous materials, and heavy machinery. Work schedules can be long and irregular, including nights and weekends.

Quick task list

Operates equipment for drilling and servicing oil and gas wells.
Monitors the extraction process and adjusts machinery as needed.
Performs maintenance and repairs on service unit equipment.
Ensures compliance with safety regulations and procedures.
Collaborates with other crew members to optimize the extraction process.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Well Servicing: Maintaining and repairing oil and gas wells after the completion of drilling.
Drilling Operations: Operating drilling equipment to extract oil and gas.
Offshore Operations: Specializing in oil and gas extraction at sea.
Hydraulic Fracturing: Handling equipment for hydraulic fracturing operations.

Description

Oil and Gas Service Unit Operators are essential in the energy sector, ensuring the efficient and safe extraction of oil and gas. They require a strong understanding of the machinery used in drilling and extraction processes, along with a solid grasp of safety practices. The role demands physical stamina, as operators often handle heavy equipment and work in challenging conditions.

Attention to detail is critical, as operators must monitor equipment and adjust operations based on specific conditions and data. They also play a key role in preventive maintenance, identifying potential issues before they escalate into bigger problems. Teamwork is essential, as operators must work closely with other crew members, including engineers and drilling experts.

Continuous learning and adaptability are important, as technology in the oil and gas industry evolves rapidly. Operators may need to learn new techniques and adapt to advanced equipment to remain effective in their roles.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Contributing to vital energy production and resource extraction.
Working with and mastering complex machinery.
Opportunities for high earning potential and career advancement.

You might make a good Oil and Gas Service Unit Operator if you are...

Mechanically inclined and enjoy hands-on work.
Physically fit and capable of working in challenging environments.
Detail-oriented, with a focus on safety and efficiency.
Able to work well in a team and communicate effectively.
Adaptable and eager to learn new skills.

Pros:

High demand in the energy sector, offering stable employment opportunities.
Potential for high earnings, especially with overtime and specialized skills.
Opportunities for advancement and specialized training.

Cons:

Physically demanding and potentially hazardous work conditions.
Long and irregular hours, often in remote locations.
Exposure to extreme weather and potentially hazardous materials.

How to become an Oil and Gas Service Unit Operator

Typical education

A high school diploma or equivalent is usually required. While some technical knowledge can be gained through vocational training programs, much of the expertise is acquired through on-the-job training. Certifications for specific equipment or safety protocols may also be necessary.

High school preparation

Courses:

Technical and vocational courses in mechanics or engineering.
Mathematics and physics to understand principles related to machinery and pressure systems.
Industrial arts or shop classes to gain practical, hands-on skills.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining a robotics club or similar group to develop mechanical skills.
Participating in sports or physical fitness programs to build strength and endurance.
Engaging in outdoor activities, such as hiking or camping, to adapt to different environments.

Preparation after high school

Attending a vocational or technical school with programs in petroleum engineering technology or mechanical maintenance.
Seeking entry-level positions in the oil and gas industry for on-the-job training.
Pursuing certifications in specific types of equipment operation or safety procedures, such as HAZMAT or first aid.

More resources

Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) - Provides resources and networking opportunities in the oil and gas industry.
International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC) - Offers training and information for drilling professionals.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - Provides safety guidelines and resources specific to the oil and gas sector.
American Petroleum Institute (API) - Offers industry standards, certifications, and training programs for oil and gas professionals.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.