When most people think of the oil and gas industry, their minds often jump to images of towering drilling rigs and miles of pipelines snaking through rugged landscapes. While these are certainly iconic parts of the industry, they represent just a fraction of the vast, interconnected web of fields and services that keep the energy sector running. Beyond the rigs and pipelines, there’s a world of entry-level jobs that are critical to the daily operations, safety, and support of oil and gas projects. Whether you’re fresh out of school, looking to switch careers, or simply curious about what opportunities exist beyond the wellhead, this article will open your eyes to the many entry-level positions available across the industry. From the remote wilderness of oilfields to the controlled environments of refineries and support camps, there’s a job for everyone, regardless of your background or previous experience.
Upstream
Seismic Survey Helper
As a Seismic Survey Helper, you’ll get hands-on experience in the early stages of oil and gas exploration by assisting with seismic surveys. This job involves working outdoors, often in remote locations, helping to set up and operate equipment that maps underground oil and gas reserves. You’ll be laying out cables, placing sensors, and making sure everything runs smoothly. This role is ideal if you’re looking to start a career with oilfield service companies like Schlumberger, Halliburton, or smaller geophysical survey firms. These companies typically offer on-the-job training, so no prior experience is needed.
Mud Logger Assistant
A Mud Logger Assistant is crucial for monitoring the drilling process by helping collect and analyze drilling mud samples. This entry-level position involves working alongside experienced mud loggers to ensure that the drilling fluids used in the operation are within specifications. You’ll also learn how to operate and maintain logging equipment. This role is a great starting point if you’re interested in geology or data analysis, and it’s common in drilling companies like Baker Hughes or specialized mud logging firms. Employers usually provide all necessary training.
Offshore Deckhand
As an Offshore Deckhand, you’ll perform a variety of tasks on offshore drilling rigs, such as operating machinery, assisting with supply loading, and keeping the rig clean and safe. This physically demanding role is a great way to get your foot in the door if you’re interested in working offshore. Companies like Transocean, Diamond Offshore, or other drilling contractors often hire deckhands and provide the required training. No prior experience is needed, but a willingness to work in challenging conditions is essential.
Land Rig Floorhand
A Land Rig Floorhand works directly on land-based drilling rigs, handling tools and equipment, assisting with drilling operations, and maintaining a clean work environment. It’s an ideal entry-level position for those who want to start their career in the oil and gas industry without any prior experience. You’ll work for drilling companies like Patterson-UTI, Nabors, or independent drilling contractors. These companies typically offer on-the-job training, so you’ll learn as you go.
Subsea Equipment Cleaner
As a Subsea Equipment Cleaner, you’ll be responsible for cleaning and maintaining the underwater equipment used in offshore drilling operations. This job is crucial for keeping subsea machinery in top condition and involves using specialized cleaning tools. It’s an excellent entry-level position if you’re interested in working offshore and underwater. Companies like Oceaneering, TechnipFMC, and other subsea service providers often hire for this role, and they provide all the training you need.
Geological Field Assistant
A Geological Field Assistant helps geologists collect and analyze rock samples in the search for oil and gas. This role involves fieldwork, where you’ll be gathering samples, recording data, and assisting with the creation of geological maps. If you’re interested in geology and enjoy working outdoors, this position with companies like ExxonMobil, Chevron, or geological consulting firms is a great way to start your career. Most employers provide on-the-job training, so you won’t need any prior experience.
Wellsite Laborer
As a Wellsite Laborer, you’ll perform various manual tasks at drilling sites, such as setting up equipment, transporting materials, and ensuring the site remains organized and safe. This entry-level role is perfect for someone who wants to be directly involved in drilling operations. You’ll typically work for drilling companies like Ensign Energy, Precision Drilling, or smaller independent operators. The job requires physical stamina and a strong work ethic, but no prior experience or specialized education.
Drilling Fluids Technician Helper
A Drilling Fluids Technician Helper assists in managing the fluids used in the drilling process. This role involves monitoring fluid levels, mixing fluids to the correct specifications, and maintaining the equipment. It’s a critical entry-level position for those interested in the technical side of drilling operations. You can find opportunities with companies like Baker Hughes, M-I SWACO, or other fluid management service providers. Employers generally offer training, so you’ll learn on the job.
Offshore Catering Assistant
As an Offshore Catering Assistant, you’ll be part of the team that keeps the crew well-fed on offshore rigs. Your tasks will include food preparation, serving meals, and maintaining a clean kitchen. This is a great entry-level job if you’re looking to work offshore but prefer a role that’s not directly involved in drilling. Catering companies like Sodexo, Aramark, or those specializing in remote site services often hire for these positions and provide the necessary training.
Environmental Field Technician
An Environmental Field Technician helps monitor and collect environmental data at drilling sites to ensure compliance with regulations. This job involves sampling soil, water, and air, and recording data. It’s a perfect entry-level role if you’re interested in environmental science and want to work in the oil and gas industry. Companies like Environmental Resources Management (ERM), Stantec, or environmental consulting firms in the industry often offer these positions, providing the necessary training to get started.
Midstream
Pipeline Construction Laborer
As a Pipeline Construction Laborer, you’ll be on the front lines of pipeline installation projects, performing a variety of general labor tasks. This role involves helping with the setup and positioning of pipes, operating basic construction tools, and ensuring that the construction site is organized and safe. If you’re looking to get started in the oil and gas industry without any prior experience, this is a great entry-level job. You’ll typically work for pipeline construction companies like Kinder Morgan, Enbridge, or smaller contractors who often provide on-the-job training.
Pipeline Maintenance Helper
A Pipeline Maintenance Helper assists in the upkeep and repair of existing pipelines. This job includes tasks such as digging, lifting, and helping to replace damaged sections of the pipeline. It’s a critical role in ensuring that pipelines operate safely and efficiently. If you’re interested in a hands-on job with plenty of outdoor work, this position is a great start. Companies like TransCanada, Enterprise Products, or other pipeline operators frequently hire for these roles and provide the necessary training to get you started.
Compressor Station Laborer
As a Compressor Station Laborer, you’ll work at the facilities that keep gas flowing through pipelines by maintaining the equipment that compresses the gas. Your tasks will include cleaning, basic maintenance, and assisting technicians with more complex repairs. This role is ideal if you’re interested in learning about the mechanical side of pipeline operations. Companies that operate compressor stations, such as Williams, Kinder Morgan, or regional gas utilities, often hire for these positions, offering on-the-job training.
Pipeline Coating Assistant
A Pipeline Coating Assistant helps apply protective coatings to pipelines, which is essential for preventing corrosion and extending the life of the pipes. This job involves preparing the pipeline surface, mixing coatings, and applying them under the supervision of more experienced workers. If you’re interested in a specialized trade within the oil and gas industry, this entry-level position is a great starting point. You’ll likely work for coating companies like Shawcor, Aegion, or contractors that specialize in pipeline protection. Training is typically provided by employers.
Pipeline Survey Helper
As a Pipeline Survey Helper, you’ll assist surveyors in mapping out pipeline routes, which is a crucial step in both new construction and maintenance projects. Your duties will include carrying equipment, setting up survey markers, and recording data. This is a great entry-level job if you’re interested in the technical and logistical side of pipeline operations. Surveying firms, as well as pipeline companies like Spectra Energy or Oneok, often hire for these roles and provide all the necessary training.
Valve Technician Assistant
A Valve Technician Assistant supports valve technicians in the maintenance and repair of pipeline valves, which control the flow of oil and gas. This job involves disassembling, cleaning, and reassembling valves, as well as assisting with their installation and testing. If you’re mechanically inclined and interested in learning a specialized skill, this entry-level position is a good fit. Companies like Flowserve, Cameron, or pipeline operators themselves offer these roles and typically provide on-the-job training.
Pipeline Leak Detection Assistant
As a Pipeline Leak Detection Assistant, you’ll help monitor pipelines for leaks, which is crucial for safety and environmental protection. This role involves using detection equipment, inspecting pipelines, and recording data under the guidance of more experienced technicians. It’s a great entry-level position for those interested in a technical job that has a direct impact on safety. Companies like Enbridge, Marathon Petroleum, or specialized leak detection firms often hire for these roles, providing training to get you started.
Right-of-Way Clearing Laborer
A Right-of-Way Clearing Laborer is responsible for clearing vegetation and obstacles from pipeline routes to ensure safe access for maintenance and inspection crews. This job involves using tools like chainsaws and brush cutters to clear the way, making it perfect for someone who enjoys outdoor, physical work. Pipeline construction companies or vegetation management firms that work with major pipeline operators frequently hire for these positions, offering basic training to get you up to speed.
Pipeline Welding Helper
As a Pipeline Welding Helper, you’ll assist welders in the construction and maintenance of pipelines. Your duties will include preparing materials, handling tools, and helping with the assembly of pipes. This role is a great starting point if you’re interested in learning welding skills and working your way up in the trade. Pipeline construction companies like Plains All American, Targa Resources, or welding contractors hire for these positions and typically provide on-the-job training.
Pipeline Inspection Drone Operator
As a Pipeline Inspection Drone Operator, you’ll use drones to inspect pipelines for damages, such as cracks, corrosion, or leaks. This job involves piloting drones, capturing and analyzing footage, and reporting any issues to maintenance teams. It’s an excellent entry-level role for tech-savvy individuals interested in combining technology with the oil and gas industry. Companies like Shell, BP, or specialized drone service providers hire for these roles, and while basic drone operation training is usually provided, having a keen interest in drones will be an advantage.
Downstream
Refinery Operator Trainee
As a Refinery Operator Trainee, you’ll assist experienced refinery operators in managing the complex processes that turn crude oil into usable products like gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. This role involves monitoring equipment, adjusting controls, and learning to manage the flow of materials through the refinery. It’s a fantastic entry-level position if you’re interested in the operational side of oil refining, and companies like Chevron, ExxonMobil, and Valero frequently hire for these roles. Employers typically provide extensive on-the-job training, so no prior experience is needed.
Tank Farm Laborer
A Tank Farm Laborer performs various tasks at tank farms, which are facilities where large volumes of oil, gas, or chemicals are stored. Your duties will include loading and unloading materials, maintaining the tanks and equipment, and ensuring the site is clean and organized. If you’re looking to start a career in the oil and gas industry with a job that involves hands-on work, this is a great place to begin. Companies like Kinder Morgan, Magellan Midstream, or regional storage facilities often hire for these positions and provide the necessary training.
Refinery Maintenance Helpe
As a Refinery Maintenance Helper, you’ll assist skilled maintenance workers in keeping refinery equipment in good working order. This job includes tasks such as cleaning, lubricating machinery, and helping with minor repairs. If you’re mechanically inclined and interested in learning how refinery equipment operates, this entry-level position is perfect. Refinery companies like Phillips 66, Marathon Petroleum, and Shell often hire for these roles and offer on-the-job training.
Chemical Plant Laborer
A Chemical Plant Laborer performs general labor tasks at chemical plants, where raw materials are processed into products like plastics, fertilizers, or other industrial chemicals. Your job will involve operating basic equipment, transporting materials, and ensuring the cleanliness and safety of the plant. This role is ideal if you’re interested in starting a career in the chemical side of the oil and gas industry. Companies like Dow Chemical, BASF, and Chevron Phillips Chemical frequently hire for these positions and provide training.
Terminal Operator Assistant
As a Terminal Operator Assistant, you’ll support terminal operators in managing the storage and distribution of oil, gas, or chemicals at large terminals. This role involves monitoring product levels, operating valves and pumps, and ensuring the safe and efficient movement of products in and out of the terminal. It’s a great entry-level position if you’re interested in logistics and operations within the oil and gas industry. Companies like Buckeye Partners, NuStar Energy, and Enterprise Products often hire for these roles and provide comprehensive training.
Refinery Safety Assistant
A Refinery Safety Assistant helps implement and enforce safety protocols at refinery sites to ensure a safe working environment for all employees. This job involves conducting safety inspections, assisting in safety training, and helping to maintain safety equipment. If you’re passionate about safety and want to be part of a team that prioritizes it, this is an excellent entry-level role. Refineries like BP, Shell, and ConocoPhillips, as well as safety consulting firms, often hire for these positions and provide the necessary training.
Refinery Lab Technician Helper
As a Refinery Lab Technician Helper, you’ll support lab technicians in analyzing samples of oil, gas, and other materials to ensure quality and compliance with industry standards. This job involves preparing samples, maintaining lab equipment, and recording data. If you have an interest in science and want to gain hands-on experience in a lab environment, this is a great starting point. Refineries and petrochemical companies like ExxonMobil, Total, and BASF often hire for these positions and provide on-the-job training.
Refinery Cleaning Crew
The Refinery Cleaning Crew is responsible for performing cleaning tasks at refinery facilities, ensuring that all areas are clean, safe, and ready for operations. This job involves using industrial cleaning equipment, removing debris, and maintaining the cleanliness of work areas. It’s an entry-level position that offers a good way to get your foot in the door of the oil and gas industry. Companies like Clean Harbors, Veolia, and large refineries often hire for these roles and provide training.
Refinery Security Guard
As a Refinery Security Guard, you’ll be responsible for providing security at refinery sites, ensuring that only authorized personnel have access and that the site remains secure at all times. This role involves monitoring security systems, conducting patrols, and responding to any security incidents. If you’re interested in a security role within the oil and gas industry, this is a solid entry-level job. Refineries and security companies that specialize in industrial sites, like Securitas or Allied Universal, frequently hire for these positions and provide the necessary training.
Refinery Fire Watch
A Refinery Fire Watch monitors for fire hazards during hot work operations, such as welding or cutting, at refinery sites. This role is crucial for preventing fires and ensuring that safety protocols are followed. As a fire watch, you’ll keep a close eye on hot work areas, be ready to extinguish small fires, and alert workers to any potential dangers. It’s a great entry-level job for someone who wants to start in safety or fire prevention within the oil and gas industry. Companies like Shell, Valero, or contractors that provide specialized safety services typically hire for these roles and offer on-the-job training.
Other Supporting Services
Oilfield Truck Driver
As an Oilfield Truck Driver, you’ll be responsible for transporting essential equipment and materials to and from oilfield sites. This role involves driving large vehicles, often in remote and rugged terrain, to ensure that drilling rigs and camps have the supplies they need. If you enjoy driving and are looking for an entry-level position that offers a good starting point in the oil and gas industry, this job is ideal. Companies like Halliburton, Schlumberger, or logistics firms that serve the oil industry often hire for these roles and typically require a commercial driver’s license (CDL), which many employers help you obtain.
Oilfield Catering Assistant
An Oilfield Catering Assistant prepares and serves meals at oilfield camps, where crews often work long shifts in remote locations. Your duties will include food preparation, serving meals, and maintaining a clean kitchen environment. This role is perfect for someone who enjoys working in food service and is looking to start a career in the oilfield service industry. Catering companies that specialize in remote locations, such as Sodexo or Compass Group, frequently hire for these positions and provide the necessary training.
Oilfield Camp Maintenance Worker
As an Oilfield Camp Maintenance Worker, you’ll be responsible for maintaining and repairing the facilities at oilfield camps, including housing, kitchens, and recreational areas. This job involves basic carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work, making it a great entry-level position for those interested in the trades. Companies that operate oilfield camps, like Civeo or Target Hospitality, often hire for these roles and typically provide on-the-job training.
Oilfield Housekeeper
An Oilfield Housekeeper performs cleaning tasks at oilfield accommodations, ensuring that living and working spaces are clean, sanitary, and comfortable for the crew. This job involves cleaning rooms, common areas, and laundry services. It’s an entry-level position that’s ideal for someone who enjoys keeping spaces tidy and organized. Companies like Horizon North Logistics, Civeo, or other camp management firms frequently hire for these roles and provide training.
Oilfield Medic Assistant
As an Oilfield Medic Assistant, you’ll support medics in providing healthcare services at oilfield sites. Your duties will include assisting with medical procedures, maintaining medical supplies, and providing first aid under supervision. This role is a great entry-level opportunity for someone interested in pursuing a career in healthcare within the oil and gas industry. Companies that provide medical services to oilfields, like Remote Medical International or industrial health providers, typically hire for these roles and provide necessary training.
Oilfield Security Guard
An Oilfield Security Guard is responsible for providing security at oilfield sites, ensuring that only authorized personnel have access and that the site remains secure. This role involves monitoring security systems, conducting patrols, and responding to any security incidents. It’s a solid entry-level job if you’re interested in security work within the oil and gas industry. Security firms like Securitas or those specializing in remote locations often hire for these positions and provide the necessary training.
Oilfield Equipment Cleaner
As an Oilfield Equipment Cleaner, you’ll be responsible for cleaning and maintaining the heavy machinery and equipment used in oilfield operations. This job involves using industrial cleaning tools to ensure that equipment is free of dirt, grease, and debris, which is crucial for safe and efficient operations. If you’re interested in a physically active job that’s essential to keeping oilfield operations running smoothly, this entry-level position is a great fit. Companies that provide equipment cleaning services, or oilfield service providers like Baker Hughes, often hire for these roles and provide training.
Oilfield Waste Management Worker
An Oilfield Waste Management Worker handles the collection, transportation, and disposal of waste materials at oilfield sites. This role is critical for maintaining environmental compliance and keeping the site clean and safe. If you’re interested in environmental services and want to start a career in waste management, this entry-level job offers a great starting point. Waste management companies like Clean Harbors or those specializing in industrial waste disposal often hire for these positions and provide the necessary training.
Oilfield Laundry Worker
As an Oilfield Laundry Worker, you’ll be responsible for handling laundry services at oilfield camps, ensuring that crew members have clean clothing and linens. This job involves operating industrial laundry machines, sorting laundry, and maintaining a clean work area. It’s an entry-level position that’s perfect for someone who enjoys working in a supportive role within the oilfield service industry. Companies that manage oilfield camps and remote site services frequently hire for these roles and provide training.
Oilfield Transportation Coordinator
An Oilfield Transportation Coordinator assists in managing the logistics of transporting workers and materials to and from oilfield sites. This job involves scheduling, dispatching vehicles, and ensuring that all transportation runs smoothly and on time. If you’re interested in logistics and want to start a career in the oil and gas industry, this entry-level role is ideal. Companies involved in oilfield logistics, like Schlumberger, Baker Hughes, or specialized transport firms, often hire for these positions and provide on-the-job training.
Oilfield Air Transport Assistant
As an Oilfield Air Transport Assistant, you’ll support the operations of air transport services for oilfield personnel, including scheduling flights, coordinating with pilots, and ensuring that passengers and cargo are safely transported. This role is perfect if you’re interested in aviation and want to work in a dynamic environment within the oil and gas industry. Companies that provide helicopter or fixed-wing services to oilfields, like Bristow Group or PHI, often hire for these positions and offer training.
Oilfield Water Truck Driver
A Oilfield Water Truck Driver is responsible for transporting water to and from oilfield sites, which is essential for drilling operations and dust control. This job involves operating large trucks and ensuring that water is delivered where it’s needed on time. If you’re looking for a driving job that’s crucial to oilfield operations, this entry-level position is a good fit. Companies that provide water hauling services, like Stallion Oilfield Services or independent contractors, often hire for these roles and provide training, typically requiring a CDL.
Oilfield Fuel Truck Driver
As an Oilfield Fuel Truck Driver, you’ll transport fuel to and from oilfield sites, ensuring that all equipment and vehicles have the fuel they need to keep operations running smoothly. This job involves driving large fuel trucks and adhering to safety regulations. If you enjoy driving and want a vital role in the oilfield supply chain, this entry-level position is ideal. Companies that specialize in fuel delivery, like Sun Coast Resources or regional fuel transporters, frequently hire for these positions and provide training.
Oilfield Safety Observer
A Oilfield Safety Observer monitors safety compliance at oilfield sites, ensuring that all workers follow safety protocols and procedures. This role involves observing work activities, identifying potential hazards, and reporting any safety violations. It’s a great entry-level job for someone interested in safety and risk management within the oil and gas industry. Companies like Halliburton, Schlumberger, or safety consulting firms that work with oilfields often hire for these roles and provide the necessary training.
Oilfield Environmental Technician
As an Oilfield Environmental Technician, you’ll assist in monitoring environmental conditions and ensuring compliance with regulations at oilfield sites. This job involves collecting samples, recording data, and helping to implement environmental protection measures. If you’re passionate about the environment and want to work in the oil and gas industry, this entry-level position is a great fit. Environmental consulting firms, as well as oil and gas companies like Shell or Chevron, frequently hire for these positions and provide on-the-job training.
Oilfield Survey Helper
An Oilfield Survey Helper supports surveyors in mapping and data collection at oilfield sites. This role involves carrying equipment, setting up survey markers, and recording measurements. It’s a perfect entry-level job if you’re interested in the technical and logistical aspects of oilfield projects. Companies that specialize in surveying and mapping, or oil and gas companies like ConocoPhillips, often hire for these positions and provide the necessary training.
Oilfield Mapping Assistant
As an Oilfield Mapping Assistant, you’ll assist in creating maps and diagrams for oilfield projects, which are crucial for planning and operations. This job involves working with mapping software, handling data, and assisting with the production of accurate maps. If you’re interested in cartography or geographic information systems (GIS), this entry-level position is ideal. Companies that provide mapping services, or oil and gas firms with in-house mapping teams, often hire for these roles and offer training.
Oilfield Logistics Assistant
An Oilfield Logistics Assistant supports logistics operations for oilfield projects, helping to coordinate the movement of equipment, materials, and personnel. This role involves tracking shipments, organizing schedules, and ensuring that everything runs smoothly. It’s a great entry-level job if you’re interested in the fast-paced world of logistics within the oil and gas industry. Companies like Schlumberger, Baker Hughes, or specialized logistics firms often hire for these positions and provide training.
Oilfield Administrative Assistant
As an Oilfield Administrative Assistant, you’ll provide administrative support at oilfield offices, handling tasks such as data entry, scheduling, and communication. This job is perfect for someone who enjoys organization and multitasking. If you’re looking to start a career in the administrative side of the oil and gas industry, this entry-level position offers a solid foundation. Oilfield service companies, contractors, and drilling firms frequently hire for these roles and offer training.
Oilfield IT Support Technician
An Oilfield IT Support Technician assists in maintaining IT systems at oilfield sites, ensuring that all computer and communication systems are operational. This role involves troubleshooting hardware and software issues, setting up equipment, and providing technical support
to workers. If you’re interested in technology and want to work in a unique environment, this entry-level position is ideal. Oilfield service companies and IT firms that specialize in remote and rugged environments often hire for these positions and provide the necessary training.
The oil and gas industry is far more than just drilling rigs and pipeline construction—it’s a complex, dynamic ecosystem that offers a wide range of career opportunities for those willing to explore beyond the surface. Whether you’re interested in logistics, environmental protection, safety, maintenance, or even IT, there’s a place for you in this ever-evolving sector. The entry-level jobs outlined in this article are just the beginning of what could be a long and rewarding career in one of the world’s most essential industries. So, whether you’re just starting out or looking to pivot into a new field, take the plunge into the oil and gas industry—it’s more diverse and full of potential than you might have ever imagined.