Is the oil companies or board representative employee. He is not employed by the drilling company operating the rig. On a drilling rig an oil company employee works with the drilling company to supervise its interests, helping the strategy for drilling the well. Some actively get involved on the drill floor during maintenance overseeing procedures.

Has often worked his way up through the drill crew ranks. He is in overall charge of the rig. Has responsibility for all those onboard and will regularly hold safety drills, normally at weekends to practise response teams, and to get everyone familiar with the different types of alarm.

Works in the rig offices and on the rig floor. He also has responsibilities on the main deck. He is usually an experienced driller. Has overall responsibility for the Derrick and associated equipment, including drilling operations.

Works on the rig floor usually in a team of three and is responsible for the operation of equipment and machines as required by the particular operation being carried at that time by the driller. While drilling, one Roughneck is present in the mud process room at all times. He takes mud weights and ensures shakers and other machines are working properly.

Main duties include guiding the crane as loads are moved about the deck, supplying equipment to the rig floor as requested and keeping pipe deck and main deck areas clean and tidy. Will also assist Roughnecks on the drill floor when required. This usually only happens when the Roughnecks are to busy to get a meal break. The Roustabout will get his meal, then go to the drill floor allowing one roughneck to get his break. Then each Roughneck swops out until everyone has eaten. Roustabouts are often members of the stretcher party.

Has many tasks to perform most vary depending on particular drilling operation being carried out at the time. He is direct supervisor for the Derrickman, Pumpman and Roughnecks.     Click here to move to other jobs