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Entry Level Offshore Oil Rig Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Offshore Oil Rig information

See California salary details

$10

$15

$21

How much do entry level offshore oil rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level offshore oil rig in California is $15.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.27 and $17.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I get offshore with no experience?

Entry level offshore oil rig positions often require a high school diploma or equivalent and may accept candidates with no prior experience if they complete relevant safety training and certifications such as Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET). Gaining basic skills in safety procedures, physical fitness, and understanding the offshore environment can improve chances of employment; some companies also offer entry-level programs or apprenticeships for newcomers.

What is an Entry Level Offshore Oil Rig job?

An entry-level offshore oil rig job involves performing basic tasks to support drilling and production operations. Common roles include roustabout, roughneck, and floorhand, which involve cleaning, maintaining equipment, and assisting skilled workers. These positions require physical labor, long shifts, and extended rotations at sea. No prior experience is usually needed, but physical fitness and a willingness to work in tough environments are essential. Many workers use these roles as a stepping stone for higher positions in the oil and gas industry.

Is it hard to get hired on an offshore oil rig?

Getting hired as an entry-level offshore oil rig worker can be competitive due to the specialized environment and safety requirements. Candidates typically need relevant certifications such as Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET) and may face a rigorous screening process, but prior experience is not always necessary for entry-level positions.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Entry level offshore oil rig jobs, such as roustabouts or roughneck positions, can pay around $4,000 per week with experience and proper certifications like H2S and Basic Offshore Safety Induction. These roles often require physical fitness, safety training, and willingness to work long shifts in challenging environments. High pay is typically associated with offshore work due to the demanding conditions and specialized skills involved.

What is the typical schedule and work environment like for an entry level offshore oil rig position?

Entry level offshore oil rig roles commonly operate on a rotational schedule, such as two weeks on the rig followed by two weeks off. Workdays are long, often involving 12-hour shifts, and employees live and work on the rig for the duration of their rotation. The environment is physically demanding and safety-focused, but modern rigs offer amenities such as shared living quarters, meals, and recreational spaces. Teamwork is essential, as tasks are performed in close collaboration with colleagues from various disciplines. This unique work structure can be rewarding both financially and in terms of career growth for those comfortable with remote, high-energy settings.

Can I work on an offshore oil rig with no experience?

Entry level offshore oil rig positions typically require some basic safety training and certifications, such as Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET). While prior experience is not always necessary, employers often prefer candidates with a strong work ethic, physical fitness, and willingness to learn on the job, as many roles provide on-the-job training.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Entry Level Offshore Oil Rig position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Offshore Oil Rig worker, you need physical stamina, basic mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with safety protocols and certifications such as Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET) are often required. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication skills set exceptional candidates apart in this challenging setting. These skills help maintain safety, operational efficiency, and a positive working environment in a demanding offshore context.

What are the most commonly searched types of Offshore Oil Rig jobs in California? The most popular types of Offshore Oil Rig jobs in California are:
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What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Offshore Oil Rig jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Offshore Oil Rig job openings:
Entry Level Offshore Oil Rig jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Offshore Oil Rig job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,151 per year, or $15.5 per hour.
Foss Lightering Engineer - Long Beach, California

Foss Lightering Engineer - Long Beach, California

Foss Maritime

Long Beach, CA • On-site

$710.85/day

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

About Foss Maritime
Foss Maritime is one of the most recognized and respected maritime brands in the U.S., combining a rich legacy with a forward-thinking approach to industry innovation. While deeply rooted in tradition, Foss is evolving at a fast pace, continuously setting new standards for operational excellence and sustainability.
With operations spanning all U.S. coasts and global transportation projects, Foss is a leader in harbor and terminal towage, tug and barge transportation, and offshore energy solutions, including traditional energy and offshore wind projects. Our primary operations are on the U.S. West Coast, Alaska, and Hawaii.
As part of the Saltchuk family of companies, Foss is a values-driven organization that takes pride in its exceptional team, commitment to safety, and dedication to customer success. With a culture built on integrity, innovation, and collaboration, Foss Maritime remains a trusted leader in the maritime industry.
About the Role
As a Lightering Engineer, you'll be an essential part of our mission to provide safe and reliable maritime services. You'll work alongside a dedicated team that values professionalism, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
What You'll Do
Essential Functions & Duties - Shoreside
  • Equipment readiness: Maintain, inspect, and support the upkeep of customer-owned lightering gear to ensure readiness for safe and efficient operations.
  • Equipment and vehicle operation: Operate forklifts, cranes, company trucks, and other assigned equipment in support of shoreside maintenance, staging, and logistics activities.
  • Inventory and materials control: Track customer-owned inventory, lightering gear, stores, and spare parts for vessels participating in PAL operations.
  • Warehouse and yard support: Maintain the organization, cleanliness, and efficient use of the warehouse and maintenance yard.
  • Logistics and vessel support: Assist with delivery of stores, spare parts, and customer-owned materials to support vessels and ongoing lightering operations.

Essential Functions & Duties - Offshore
  • Operational readiness: Under the direction of Customer Lightering Masters, support the lightering team in preparing for safe, compliant, and efficient ship-to-ship transfer operations.
  • Lightering gear and hose handling: Rig, secure, and handle lightering gear and cargo transfer hoses during offshore lightering operations.
  • Mooring and vessel coordination: Assist with mooring and unmooring operations while maintaining effective communication with vessel and support vessel crews.
  • Emergency response readiness: Serve as part of the oil spill response team aboard the lightering support vessel and participate in response activities as directed.
  • Safety and marine compliance: Follow established safety, environmental, and marine operational procedures throughout offshore operations.

What We're Looking For
  • Maritime knowledge: General knowledge of seamanship, vessel deck operations, and safe marine work practices.
  • Training and certification readiness: Ability to attend, understand, and successfully complete training and certification courses required to meet regulatory standards and support safe, environmentally responsible operations.
  • Equipment and vehicle operation: Ability to operate forklifts of various sizes, company vehicles, including a 12-foot stake bed truck, and qualify for future certification on company-owned cranes.
  • Physical capability: Must be in good physical condition and able to access offices, shops, vessels, and ships at sea, including boarding vessels and lifting moderately heavy materials.
  • Schedule flexibility: Ability to work overtime, nights, weekends, holidays, and varied schedules as operational needs require.

What We Offer
  • Pay for this position will be $41.62/ hour (shoreside) and $710.85 (offshore day rate)
  • Benefits
  • Opportunities for advancement in a legacy-rich company
  • Training and development programs
  • A culture rooted in safety, respect, and teamwork

How to Apply
Ready to set sail with Foss? Submit your application via our careers page. If you need any assistance please reach out to fossjobs@foss.com. We look forward to welcoming you aboard.
Drug Free Workplace
Foss Maritime Company LLC is a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Foss Maritime Company LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

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