Description

Assistant drillers are employed primarily outdoors for exploration, water and drilling companies and must adhere to the strict guidelines for safety and protocols in all instances and follow the strictest OSHA rules and rules and regulations. Commercial driver's licence (Class A and B) is usually required for this job, and assistant drillers need to be able to work for extended hours and occasionally on weekend hours.

High school graduation could be the minimum requirement for this job Employers typically provide training on the job. The completion the OSHA 40 hours of HAZWOPER training is recommended however it is not necessary, and having knowledge of air rotary and mud as well as rock coring and monitoring the construction of wells is extremely useful. Assistant drillers must be able to communicate clearly when working with drilling equipment or instruments, as well as being able to function in a group working environment is usually required in this job.

Certain math skills could be required to determine length and volume. In addition, assistant drillers need to be physically fit enough to lift or carry sixty pounds and more, and bend or kneel, squat, climb or dig and crawl. They can be employed in any weather and may even instruct new assistant drillers.

Roles & Responsibilities

As an Assistant Driller with 0-3 years of experience in the United Kingdom, your main responsibilities include:

  • Assisting in the operation and maintenance of drilling equipment, ensuring smooth operations.
  • Conducting regular inspections and maintenance of drilling machinery for optimal performance and safety.
  • Collaborating with the drilling team to ensure efficient drilling operations and adherence to safety protocols.
  • Assisting in core sampling, data collection, and record-keeping to support geological assessments and drilling procedures.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For an Assistant Driller job role, the following qualifications are required:

  • Proficiency in drilling operations and equipment handling to effectively carry out drilling activities in accordance with safety and operational procedures.
  • Knowledge of geology and geological formations to identify potential drilling hazards and make informed decisions regarding drilling techniques and methods.
  • Physical fitness and stamina to withstand the physically demanding nature of the job, including working in harsh weather conditions and operating heavy machinery.
  • Strong teamwork and communication skills to collaborate with the drilling team and ensure efficient coordination of drilling activities.

Essential Skills For Assistant Driller

1

Environmental Engineering

2

Equipment Analysis

3

Applied Engineering Geology

Career Prospects

The role of an Assistant Driller is essential in the oil and gas industry, with specific expertise required for drilling operations. For professionals in the United Kingdom with 0-3 years of experience, there are several alternative roles to consider. Here are following options:

  • Mud Engineer: This role involves monitoring and maintaining drilling fluids, ensuring proper drilling operations, and preventing wellbore instability.
  • HSE Coordinator: A position focused on ensuring compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations, implementing safety programs, and conducting audits.
  • Rig Electrician: In this role, you would be responsible for electrical maintenance and troubleshooting on drilling rigs, ensuring smooth operations.
  • Junior Geologist: This position involves studying rock formations, collecting and analyzing data, and providing insights for optimal drilling locations.

How to Learn

The job role of Assistant Driller in the United Kingdom is projected to experience steady growth in the market. According to a 10-year analysis, employment opportunities for Assistant Drillers are expected to increase over time. This growth can be attributed to the rising demand for energy, specifically in the oil and gas industry. As new drilling projects emerge, more job openings are anticipated in the foreseeable future. Stay updated on industry developments and market trends for a better understanding of employment prospects in this field.