FAQ
Extraction Helper FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as an extraction helper.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming an extraction helper: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about extraction helpers
Do I need experience?
No.
Is it a path to better jobs?
Yes, to driller or operator.
Is the job growing?
BLS projects about average growth.
How much does an extraction helper make?
The median annual wage for extraction helpers was $47,730 ($22.95 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $36,960 and the highest 10% earned more than $68,020.
How long does it take to become an extraction helper?
Most people need about Weeks to months on the job of training. A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical.
Do you need a degree to be an extraction helper?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
Is extraction helper a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +1.7% from 2025–35 (slower than average), with about 700 openings each year. Upsides include entry to energy jobs; a common challenge is that physical work.
What skills does an extraction helper need?
Key technical skills include tool handling, equipment cleaning, rigging basics, and material handling. Employers also value willingness to learn, stamina, and reliability.
What certifications are available for extraction helpers?
Common credentials include MSHA training, SafeLand, H2S awareness, and First aid. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Extraction Helper fit quiz, compare with Roustabout, or explore Extraction Helper training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 47-5081 (Helpers--extraction workers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Helpers--extraction workers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.