September 02, 2020

Driller/toolpusher

The driller is essentially the team leader of the drilling crew and must be organised, disciplined and able to communicate well. The driller is tasked with operating the drilling and hoisting equipment of the oil rig, man- aging the rig floor as well as operating the driller’s console which features monitors, brakes, clutches, throt- tles and a large number of gauges. With an overall understanding and knowledge of the drilling environment, the driller will monitor and ensure the safety of drilling operations by conducting safety meetings and drills, as well as documenting procedures on board and enforcing company policies.

Key tasks:

·        Conduct safety meetings and drills.

·        Document procedures.

·        Implement policies.

·        Supervise drill crew.

Entry requirements/training:

The driller will need to complete a number of certifications including specialized oil and gas safety training as well as leadership training. The driller is likely to have spent considerable time working on rigs having advanced from lower positions (with at least five years of experience or more) while demonstrating an aptitude for the work. An accredited well control certificate is also required.

Career advancement:

Having gained sufficient experience and the necessary skills to work as the head of the drilling crew, future advancement could be in the direction of rig manager, but the individual would need to undertake additional vocational training and specialized courses.

Associated job opportunities:

Experience as a driller on an offshore oil rig would translate well into a number of supervisory and technical positions ashore in the industrial or marine engineering environment.

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