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Service Unit Operators, Oil, Gas, & Mining

Also called: Rig Operator, Pulling Unit Operator, Service Rig Operator, Fishing Tool Supervisor

What they do:
Operate equipment to increase oil flow from producing wells or to remove stuck pipe, casing, tools, or other obstructions from drilling wells. May also perform similar services in mining exploration operations. Includes fishing-tool technicians.
On the job, you would:
  • Observe load variations on strain gauges, mud pumps, and motor pressure indicators; and listen to engines, rotary chains, and other equipment in order to detect faulty operations or unusual well conditions.
  • Confer with others to gather information regarding pipe or tool sizes or borehole conditions in wells.
  • Drive truck-mounted units to well sites.

Knowledge

Engineering and Technology
  • mechanical
Business
  • customer service
Arts and Humanities
  • English language
Safety and Government
  • public safety and security

Skills

Basic Skills
  • thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
  • keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
Problem Solving
  • noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Abilities

Controlled Movement
  • quickly change the controls of a machine, car, truck or boat
  • use your arms and/or legs together while sitting, standing, or lying down
Verbal
  • communicate by speaking
  • listen and understand what people say
Attention
  • pay attention to something without being distracted
Hand and Finger Use
  • keep your arm or hand steady

Personality

People interested in this work like activities that include
practical, hands-on problems and solutions.
They do well at jobs that need:
  • Dependability
  • Attention to Detail
  • Cooperation
  • Self Control
  • Integrity
  • Initiative

Technology

You might use software like this on the job:

Facilities management software
  • Computerized maintenance management system CMMS software
Time accounting software
  • Time and attendance software
Analytical or scientific software
  • Data logger software

Education

Education: (rated 2 of 5)
high school diploma or
some high school
usually needed

Get started on your career:

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Job Outlook

Below Average Outlook
New job opportunities are less likely in the future.
Salary
$40,750
per year, on average
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Green
This work is part of the green economy.

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See more details at O*NET OnLine about service unit operators, oil, gas, and mining.