Offshore Technician Jobs in Energy

Exploring Careers as an Offshore Technician

Offshore technicians play a vital role in the energy sector, bridging the gap between engineering plans and physical operations. While engineers focus on planning, calculations, and organisational tasks, technicians are hands-on professionals who execute the work required to make offshore projects happen. These roles are diverse and specialised, offering exciting career opportunities for those with the right skills and training.

The video above shows a trailer of one of the careers on our platform. See our job board, and also MDLs career page for more information on offshore technician jobs.

Understanding Offshore Technician Roles

The scope of work for offshore technicians varies significantly depending on the type of company and operation involved. For instance, technicians may:

  • Operate and maintain equipment for laying pipelines and cables.
  • Perform specialised work on pipelines, including connections and assembly.
  • Engage in tasks such as bolting and other critical operations related to offshore infrastructure.

These are only 3 examples however there are hundreds, possibly thousands of different technician roles. Essentially, technicians are the backbone of offshore projects, ensuring that the physical tasks are carried out safely and efficiently.

The above video is a trailer for one of comprehensive career videos on our platform. You can also check out the company AISUS career page or review our job board for more offshore technician jobs.

Examples of Offshore Technician Roles

For example, hydraulic, mechanical, electrical, air-conditioning, plumbing, instrumentation, electronics, air pressure pumping, and heavy machinery. Here are some additional examples:

  • Production: Overseeing systems that handle oil and gas extraction.
  • Mechanical: Maintaining machinery to ensure smooth operations.
  • Electrical: Managing power systems and troubleshooting faults.
  • Scaffolding: Building safe structures for maintenance tasks.
  • Telecoms: Ensuring reliable communication systems.
  • NDT Welding Inspection: Performing quality checks on welds and structures.
  • Bolting: Tightening and tensioning critical infrastructure.
  • Hydraulic Systems: Managing fluid-powered systems.
  • Lab Operations: Conducting tests to support production quality.
  • HVAC: Handling heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
  • Instrumentation: Monitoring and calibrating critical equipment.
  • Process Control: Managing automated systems for optimal output.
  • Rope Access: Performing high-altitude tasks with specialised safety measures.

Qualifications and Training

The qualifications required for offshore technician roles depend on the job’s specialised nature. Companies often provide on-the-job training tailored to their specific operations. However, there are a few universal certifications and requirements for oil and gas technician roles:

  1. BOSIET Offshore Survival Certificate: A fundamental course for offshore safety and survival.
  2. MIST (Minimum Industry Standard Training): Covers essential safety practices in the offshore industry. (UK specific for oil and gas)
  3. OEUK Medical Certificate: Ensures medical fitness for working in offshore environments.(oil and gas specific)

While these qualifications are a baseline, having a trade or prior speciality in a relevant field can significantly enhance employability.

Candidates should aim to match their skills and interests with companies offering aligned services.

Finding the Right Fit

To succeed as an offshore technician, it’s essential to identify companies whose services align with your skills and passions. Researching these companies and understanding their operations can make you a valuable candidate. Platforms like Energy Insider Careers(This platform) aim to bridge the gap between talented individuals and the companies that need them, providing tools and insights to help candidates find the right opportunities.

Global Opportunities for Offshore Technicians

One of the most exciting aspects of offshore technician roles is the global reach of the energy sector. The UK, known for its expertise in offshore services, plays a pivotal role in international projects. Companies in the UK often operate globally, offering technicians the opportunity to work in diverse locations worldwide. This global demand ensures offshore technicians are:

  • Highly Paid: Reflecting the specialised nature of their work.
  • Globally Mobile: With opportunities to travel and work in different countries.
  • Valued Experts: As skilled professionals, they become indispensable to the industry.

A Glimpse into the Field

To provide a real-world perspective, Energy Insider Careers features a video showcasing an offshore technician who specialises in laying subsea pipelines and umbilicals. The video also highlights the technician’s involvement in renewable energy projects, such as laying cables for wind farms. This example illustrates the diverse and international nature of the work, as well as the exciting opportunities available in this field.

150,000

Current UK Energy Workforce

220,000

2030 Energy Workforce Estimate

65 Mil

Global Energy Workforce


Challenges and Benefits of Offshore Work

Challenges:

  • Extended Stints at Sea: Technicians often spend weeks away from home, requiring strong adaptability.
  • Long Shifts: Typical workdays extend to 12 hours, demanding physical and mental endurance.
  • Restricted Recreational Options: Onboard facilities like gyms, cinemas, and social areas offer some relief but limit leisure activities compared to onshore life.

Benefits:

  • Competitive Compensation: Offshore technicians enjoy salaries and pensions that often exceed equivalent land-based roles.
  • Career Advancement: Opportunities for upward mobility within the industry, with many technicians transitioning into engineering or managerial roles.
  • Exposure to Advanced Technology: Offshore work involves cutting-edge systems, providing unique learning opportunities.
  • Global Travel: Technicians may work across multiple locations, experiencing diverse environments and cultures.

Career Growth and Future Trends

As the energy sector evolves, offshore technicians face exciting career prospects in both traditional oil and gas industries and emerging renewable energy sectors.

  1. Decommissioning: As infrastructure ages, the demand for dismantling and recycling skills increases. These roles often align closely with installation and construction expertise.
  2. Offshore Wind: The growth of offshore wind farms presents new opportunities for technicians, especially during installation and maintenance phases.
  3. Carbon Capture Projects: Emerging technologies like carbon capture involve retrofitting pipelines, performing geotechnical surveys, and adapting infrastructure for storage solutions.

These transitions highlight the need for technicians to continuously update their skills and certifications to remain competitive in the evolving energy landscape.


Conclusion

Offshore technician roles combine technical precision, adaptability, and resilience. With high demand for skilled professionals across oil, gas, and renewable sectors, the career offers dynamic opportunities for growth and specialisation. Whether transitioning into decommissioning, renewable energy, or carbon capture, technicians are well-positioned to shape the future of global energy solutions.

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