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Trainee Offshore Oil Rig Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Trainee Offshore Oil Rig information

What is a trainee offshore oil rig?

A Trainee Offshore Oil Rig job is an entry-level position where individuals learn the fundamental skills needed to work on an offshore oil rig. Responsibilities often include assisting with equipment maintenance, cleaning work areas, and following safety procedures. Trainees work under experienced crew members, gaining hands-on experience in drilling operations and rig safety. This role serves as a stepping stone to more advanced positions in the oil and gas industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trainee offshore oil rig?

To thrive as a Trainee Offshore Oil Rig worker, you need a good level of physical fitness, high school education or equivalent, and a strong awareness of safety practices. Familiarity with basic hand and power tools, and certifications such as BOSIET (Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training) and medical clearance are typically required. Teamwork, communication, and a reliable work ethic help you stand out in this high-stakes environment. These skills are critical to ensuring both personal and crew safety, as well as efficient operations in the challenging offshore setting.

What are the typical working conditions and schedule like for a trainee offshore oil rig?

Trainee Offshore Oil Rig workers typically work in shifts, often following a rotation such as two weeks on the rig followed by two weeks off. The work environment is physically demanding, involving long hours, exposure to the elements, and living on-site in shared accommodations. Safety is a top priority, and all activities are highly regulated and supervised to protect workers. While the schedule can be challenging, many find the camaraderie among crew members and opportunities for advancement rewarding aspects of the job.

Can you get a trainee offshore oil rig job with no experience?

Trainee offshore oil rig positions are designed for individuals with little or no experience, often requiring a high school diploma or equivalent. Employers typically provide on-the-job training and may require relevant certifications such as safety or basic technical courses. Having physical fitness and a willingness to learn can improve chances of securing such entry-level roles.

How do I start working on a trainee offshore oil rig?

To become a trainee offshore oil rig worker, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant safety certifications such as Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET), and sometimes prior experience in the oil and gas industry. Applying through oil companies or recruitment agencies that specialize in offshore positions is common, and physical fitness and the ability to work in challenging environments are essential.

How much do beginner offshore oil rig workers make?

Beginner offshore oil rig workers typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on the role, location, and company. Entry-level positions often require basic safety certifications and physical fitness, with pay increasing with experience and specialized skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Offshore Oil Rig jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Offshore Oil Rig jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Trainee Offshore Oil Rig jobs in Virginia?

For Trainee Offshore Oil Rig jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Trainee Offshore Oil Rig jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Trainee Offshore Oil Rig job openings:

Infographic showing various Trainee Offshore Oil Rig job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

$85K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Oceaneering rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

369th of 491 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

A single point of contact to assure applicable Nondestructive Testing (NDT) methods and Workmanship program are in compliance with customer directives, requirements, and specifications.  Ensures the requirements set forth in the SUBSAFE and Deep Submergence QA Manual, Surface QA Manual, OII-MSD Process Instructions, and customer specifications are adhered to an enforced.  This individual is responsible for conducting audits, surveillance, and performance evaluations for each designated NDT method, Workmanship program, and assigned vendor audits.  Frequent travel and overtime may be required.

Oceaneering is a global provider of engineered services and products, primarily to the offshore energy industry. We develop products and services for use throughout the lifecycle of an offshore oilfield, from drilling to decommissioning. We operate the world's premier fleet of work class ROVs. Additionally, we are a leader in offshore oilfield maintenance services, umbilicals, subsea hardware, and tooling. We also use applied technology expertise to serve the defense, material handling, aerospace, science, and renewable energy industries.
Equal Opportunity Employer: 
All qualified candidates will receive consideration for all positions without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or other non-merit factor.
Oceaneering Marine Services Division (MSD) has over 30 years of experience providing full-service submarine and surface ship repairs supporting maintenance and alterations aboard commercial and U.S. military vessels. We are SUBSAFE and DDS-SOC certified and perform high-consequence maintenance on assets that operate in demanding environments. 

Graduated from a minimum four-year college or university curriculum with a degree in engineering or science, plus one additional year of experience as a NDT Level II in the applicable NDT method(s);Or,

Completed with a passing grade at least two-years of engineering or science study at a university, college, or technical school, plus two additional years of experience as a NDT Level II in the applicable NDT method(s); or

Have four years experience as a NDT Level II in the applicable NDT method(s).

Should have basic familiarity and knowledge of ship construction/repair industry. 

Certifications of multiple NDT methods preferred, i.e. VT, PT, MT, UT, RT, ET.

NBPL certification a plus.

Technical knowledge with submarine and/or surface combat ships recommended.

Must have the ability to communicate effectively with personnel in and outside of the organization.

Pay Transparency:

 

We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package. Employee benefits vary by role, however, may include Health and Wellness, Mental Health, Retirement Savings, Life and Disability, Paid Maternity and Parental Leave, Paid Time Off, Tuition Reimbursement, and an Employee Assistance Program.

Compensation: $85,000.00 - $115,000.00

This individual is responsible for conducting audits, surveillance, and performance evaluations for each designated NDT method, Workmanship program, and assigned vendor audits. 

Interpret requirements, directives, and specifications into company Process Instructions to be used by NDT Trainee, NDT Level I, NDT Level II, and senior NDT Level II personnel. 

Establishes training agendas, conducts classroom training, examines and certifies NDT personnel for applicable NDT methods. 

Capable of establishing agendas, approving written tests, and approving practical tests for the Workmanship program. 

Tracks personnel certification renewals, performance evaluations, and process updates. 

Establishes NDT calibration procedures.  Responds to all audit findings pertaining to designated NDT methods. 

Acts as the liaison between any outside audit/surveillance activity and OII-MSD NDT personnel for inspections performed. 

Other duties may include working outside of the inspection field in a Tiger Team work environment, conducting NDT inspections in place of NDT Level II personnel when necessary, and obtaining commercial certifications (i.e. CWI, API, etc.). 


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