Day in the life
A Day in the Life of an Oilfield Service Operator
What oilfield service operators actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
Pre-trip inspect trucks at the yard. From there, the day usually includes operate workover, frac or wireline units, rig up and rig down equipment, and pull and run tubing and rods. Days are long, with rotations or extended hours depending on job type.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for an oilfield service operator working full time.
- Pre-trip inspect trucks at the yard.
- Drive to the well site.
- Rig up the workover unit.
- Pull rods and tubing to replace a pump.
- Run new pump and tubing into the well.
- Pressure test and rig down.
- Return to the yard and complete tickets.
Where oilfield service operators work
Operators work outdoors at well sites, running heavy equipment and trucks, in all weather.
Hours and schedule
Days are long, with rotations or extended hours depending on job type.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Operate workover, frac or wireline units
- Rig up and rig down equipment
- Pull and run tubing and rods
- Pump fluids and chemicals
- Monitor pressures and rates
- Maintain trucks and equipment
- Follow well control and safety rules
Tools you’ll use every day
- Workover rigs
- Frac pumps and blenders
- Wireline units
- Coiled tubing units
- Pressure gauges
- Service trucks
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Good pay with overtime
- Variety of jobs and sites
- No degree required
- Skills with CDL
What’s hard
- Long hours
- Industry cycles
- Physical and hazardous work
- Weather exposure
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I like running heavy equipment
- I want good pay with overtime
- I can get a CDL
- I like changing job sites
- I don’t mind long hours
- I take safety seriously
Not sure? Take the free Oilfield Service Operator fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Clear the area during pressure work
- Check for overhead lines
- Follow well control procedures
- Inspect trucks daily