What is an hourly roustabout?

Hourly roustabouts are entry-level workers in the oil and gas industry who perform a variety of manual labor tasks on drilling sites, such as cleaning equipment, assembling and disassembling drilling rigs, and maintaining the work area. They are typically paid by the hour and often work long shifts, sometimes in challenging outdoor environments. Roustabouts play a crucial role in supporting drilling operations and ensuring the site runs smoothly and safely. No formal education is usually required, but physical fitness and a willingness to work in demanding conditions are important.