FAQ
Roustabout FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a roustabout.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a roustabout: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about roustabouts
Do roustabouts need experience?
No; most learn on the job.
Is oilfield work steady?
It follows oil prices, with booms and slowdowns.
What training is required?
Safety courses such as SafeLand and H2S.
How much does a roustabout make?
The median annual wage for roustabouts was $46,960 ($22.58 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $36,420 and the highest 10% earned more than $64,530.
How long does it take to become a roustabout?
Most people need about 1–3 months of training. No formal education is required. Roustabouts learn on the job and complete safety training.
Do you need a degree to be a roustabout?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “no formal educational credential” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
Is roustabout a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +3.6% from 2025–35 (about as fast as average), with about 4,100 openings each year. Upsides include no experience needed; a common challenge is that hard physical labor.
What skills does a roustabout need?
Key technical skills include pipefitting basics, rigging, equipment maintenance, and forklift operation. Employers also value stamina, teamwork, and reliability.
What certifications are available for roustabouts?
Common credentials include SafeLand USA, H2S Clear, Forklift certification, and CDL. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Roustabout fit quiz, compare with Derrick Operator, or explore Roustabout training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 47-5071 (Roustabouts, oil and gas).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Roustabouts, oil and gas (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.