Offshore Oil Support Pilot Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the dynamic world of oil and gas industry, the role of offshore oil support pilots is of paramount importance.

As the industry strides forward, the demand for skilled pilots who can navigate, support, and ensure the safety of offshore operations grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What is truly expected from an offshore oil support pilot?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the nuances of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the intricacies of offshore oil support operations,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable offshore oil support pilot job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Without further ado, let’s dive in.

Offshore Oil Support Pilot Duties and Responsibilities

Offshore Oil Support Pilots are responsible for transporting personnel and equipment to offshore oil rigs.

They are highly trained professionals who ensure safety and efficiency during the transportation process.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Operating aircraft in accordance with appropriate regulations and procedures
• Transporting workers and equipment to and from offshore oil rigs
• Performing pre-flight checks to ensure aircraft safety and functionality
• Monitoring weather conditions and adjusting flight plans as necessary
• Communicating with air traffic control and other relevant personnel
• Maintaining constant communication with the passengers and the ground crew
• Performing emergency procedures when necessary
• Documenting all flight operations and reporting any irregularities
• Participating in regular training sessions to keep up to date with changes in aviation regulations and technology
• Inspecting and maintaining aircraft to ensure it meets safety standards

 

Offshore Oil Support Pilot Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled and experienced Offshore Oil Support Pilot to join our team.

The primary role of the Offshore Oil Support Pilot is to provide safe, efficient, and reliable transportation services to support offshore oil drilling operations.

This includes transporting crew and equipment to and from offshore oil platforms, performing emergency rescue operations if needed, and ensuring aircraft maintenance standards are met.

 

Responsibilities

• Transport personnel and cargo to and from offshore oil platforms safely and efficiently.
• Perform pre-flight inspections and post-flight maintenance checks.
• Monitor weather conditions and communicate effectively with air traffic control.
• Ensure all safety procedures are strictly adhered to, both on and off the aircraft.
• Perform emergency rescue operations as needed.
• Document flight operations including flight logs, maintenance records, and incident reports.
• Participate in ongoing training and development programs.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a commercial pilot, preferably in an offshore support role.
• Valid Commercial Pilot License (CPL) with Instrument Rating (IR).
• Thorough knowledge of FAA regulations and procedures.
• Ability to handle stressful situations and remain calm in emergency situations.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and decision-making skills.
• Ability to pass a rigorous medical examination.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Offshore Oil Support Pilot
• Work Environment: Offshore environment. Frequent travel and irregular work hours are common in this role.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Chief Pilot or Flight Operations Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a copy of your valid Commercial Pilot License to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Offshore Oil Support Pilot Do?

Offshore Oil Support Pilots perform a critical role in the oil and gas industry, providing transportation and logistic services to offshore oil rigs and platforms.

They are responsible for flying helicopters to and from offshore oil rigs, transporting workers, equipment, and supplies.

This requires a comprehensive understanding of aviation laws, safety protocols, and flight operations to ensure the safety of all onboard.

Offshore Oil Support Pilots must also deal with challenging weather conditions and maintain the aircraft to optimal working conditions.

This includes pre-flight checks, fueling, and routine maintenance checks.

In case of emergency situations, they might also be required to carry out search and rescue operations, evacuate injured personnel, or deliver emergency supplies.

Their role extends to maintaining constant communication with air traffic control, the offshore oil platform, and ground crew to ensure safety and efficiency in all operations.

Offshore Oil Support Pilots work under demanding conditions, requiring extensive experience and certifications, including commercial pilot’s licenses and instrument ratings.

They also have to undergo rigorous physical and mental fitness assessments due to the high-stress nature of the job.

 

Offshore Oil Support Pilot Qualifications and Skills

Offshore Oil Support Pilots require a unique combination of technical skills, industry-specific knowledge, and physical abilities to safely transport crews and supplies to offshore platforms, including:

• Strong navigation skills and technical understanding of aircraft systems, including navigation and communication equipment, and ability to operate them effectively.
• Excellent piloting skills with emphasis on takeoff and landing on offshore helipads, often in challenging weather conditions.
• Ability to manage stress and make critical decisions quickly and calmly in emergency situations.
• Thorough knowledge of safety protocols and procedures in the aviation industry, as well as those specific to offshore oil operations.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively coordinate with ground crew, offshore staff, and air traffic control.
• Physical fitness and stamina to manage the physical demands of the job, including handling cargo and surviving at sea in the event of a ditching.
• Must hold a valid commercial pilot’s license with a helicopter rating, and meet all regulatory requirements for flying hours and health fitness.
• Experience in flying in offshore environments or under similar conditions is often required.

 

Offshore Oil Support Pilot Experience Requirements

Candidates for the role of an Offshore Oil Support Pilot typically need to have a significant amount of flight experience.

This often begins with obtaining a private pilot’s license, followed by a commercial pilot’s license.

Entry-level Offshore Oil Support Pilots typically have at least 500 hours of flight time, including experience in night flying, cross-country flying and instrument flying.

They may have gained this experience through roles such as Flight Instructor or Charter Pilot.

Those with more than 1,000 hours of flight time are generally considered more experienced and may have accumulated this through extensive flying as a commercial pilot, military pilot or in other aviation roles.

Candidates with more than 3,000 hours of flight time often have substantial experience in multi-engine aircraft, instrument flying, and in challenging conditions, such as flying over water and at night.

They may also have experience in specific types of aircraft used in offshore oil support, such as helicopters.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in flying for the offshore oil industry may have some leadership experience, such as supervising junior pilots or managing flight operations, and may be ready for a managerial or team-lead position within the aviation department.

In addition to flight experience, Offshore Oil Support Pilots also need to have a comprehensive understanding of safety protocols and procedures, the ability to make quick decisions under pressure, and strong communication skills for coordinating with air traffic control and ground crews.

Training in emergency procedures, such as water survival and firefighting, is also highly beneficial.

 

Offshore Oil Support Pilot Education and Training Requirements

Offshore Oil Support Pilots are expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent as a basic educational requirement.

However, a bachelor’s degree in aviation, aeronautical engineering, or a related field is typically preferred by employers.

The most critical requirement is the need for a commercial pilot’s license issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

This involves a rigorous training period, including at least 250 hours of flight experience.

Additionally, offshore oil support pilots must possess an instrument rating, which requires additional training and testing to show they can control the aircraft in low visibility conditions.

Aside from these, an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, which necessitates 1,500 hours of flight experience, is often required for these roles due to the complexity and risk involved.

Considering the demanding environment where they operate, Offshore Oil Support Pilots may also need to complete specialized training courses that simulate offshore conditions and emergencies.

This includes underwater escape training, survival training, firefighting, and first aid.

Many pilots continually advance their skills through additional certifications and ratings, which may include specific helicopter models or advanced safety procedures.

Moreover, possessing a strong understanding of offshore oil operations, weather patterns, and emergency response protocols can significantly enhance a pilot’s career in this field.

Finally, as physical health and fitness are vital for this role, all pilots must pass regular medical examinations to maintain their flying privileges.

 

Offshore Oil Support Pilot Salary Expectations

An Offshore Oil Support Pilot can expect to earn an average salary of $90,000 (USD) per year.

However, this figure can fluctuate based on factors such as flight hours, years of experience, the complexity of the mission, and the location of the offshore rig.

 

Offshore Oil Support Pilot Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Offshore Oil Support Pilot need?

Offshore Oil Support Pilots should possess excellent navigational skills and a strong understanding of aviation safety procedures.

They must also be skilled in decision-making, particularly during emergencies or adverse weather conditions.

Good communication skills are vital for coordinating with air traffic control and crew members.

 

Do Offshore Oil Support Pilots need a license or certification?

Yes, all Offshore Oil Support Pilots must hold a commercial pilot’s license with a helicopter rating, and in many cases, an instrument rating.

The instrument rating permits pilots to fly in adverse weather conditions using flight instruments.

Furthermore, regular medical examinations are necessary to maintain the license.

 

What should you look for in an Offshore Oil Support Pilot resume?

In addition to the necessary licenses and certifications, look for experience in flying helicopters, particularly in offshore environments.

This might include previous work in support of offshore drilling operations, or experience in related fields like search and rescue or military aviation.

Any additional training in safety protocols or emergency response is also highly valuable.

 

What qualities make a good Offshore Oil Support Pilot?

A good Offshore Oil Support Pilot will have a strong focus on safety and a high level of situational awareness.

They should be capable of making quick decisions under pressure, and have the physical and mental stamina to handle long flights and difficult conditions.

Good communication and teamwork skills are also essential, as pilots often work closely with other crew members and ground staff.

 

What are the risks associated with being an Offshore Oil Support Pilot?

As with any aviation role, there are inherent risks involved.

These include adverse weather conditions, mechanical failures, and the challenging nature of landing on offshore platforms.

However, safety protocols and extensive training are in place to manage these risks, and advances in helicopter technology continue to improve safety in offshore operations.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve journeyed beyond the horizon to truly understand what it means to be an offshore oil support pilot.

Guess what?

It’s not just about flying helicopters.

It’s about ensuring the smooth operations of our energy infrastructures, one flight at a time.

With our resourceful offshore oil support pilot job description template and real-life instances, you’re ready to take flight.

But why end the journey here?

Soar further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating precision-crafted listings or honing your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every flight is a vital component of a larger mission.

Let’s navigate this journey. Together.

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