Oil Rig Scaffolder Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of energy exploration, the need for oil rig scaffolders has never been more critical.

As offshore drilling continues to expand, the demand for skilled individuals who can construct, maintain, and ensure the safety of our oil rig structures grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s genuinely expected from an oil rig scaffolder?

Whether you are:

A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
Or simply captivated by the world of offshore scaffolding,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable oil rig scaffolder job description template, designed for seamless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Contents show

Oil Rig Scaffolder Duties and Responsibilities

Oil Rig Scaffolders are responsible for constructing, modifying, and dismantling scaffolding structures in oil rigs to allow workers and materials to reach high elevations.

The role requires a high level of physical fitness and the ability to work under potentially hazardous conditions.

The primary duties and responsibilities of an Oil Rig Scaffolder are:

Erecting scaffolding structures in compliance with safety regulations and project specifications
Inspecting and assessing the scaffolding equipment for any defects or damages
Maintaining the stability of scaffolding by securing the structures with guy-wires or braces
Providing access for other workers to perform their duties in elevated positions
Dismantling scaffolding structures safely and efficiently at the end of the project or when no longer needed
Performing maintenance checks and repairs on scaffolding equipment as needed
Adhering to all health and safety regulations, including the use of protective equipment
Coordinating with other crew members to ensure the safe and successful completion of projects
Documenting and reporting any incidents or safety issues to the rig supervisor

Oil Rig Scaffolder Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a skilled Oil Rig Scaffolder to join our offshore team.

The Oil Rig Scaffolder’s responsibilities will include setting up and dismantling scaffolding structures according to safety regulations and project requirements.

The ideal candidate will have experience working in offshore environments, understanding the unique safety and operational challenges that come with the job.

They must be physically fit, detail-oriented, and committed to maintaining a safe working environment.

Responsibilities

Setting up and dismantling scaffolding structures according to blueprint and design requirements
Inspecting scaffolding structures for safety and stability
Regularly maintaining equipment and replacing any damaged components as necessary
Adhering to all safety protocols and procedures, including wearing personal protective equipment
Working effectively as part of a team, assisting other crew members as needed
Assisting in the loading and unloading of scaffolding and other equipment
Communicating effectively with team members and supervisors
Performing emergency repairs or adjustments as needed

Qualifications

Proven work experience as an Offshore or Oil Rig Scaffolder
Physical fitness and ability to work at heights
Knowledge of safety regulations and procedures
Ability to read and interpret design blueprints
Effective communication skills
Certification in Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET) or equivalent
Ability to work in harsh weather conditions and challenging environments

Benefits

401(k)
Health insurance
Dental insurance
Retirement plan
Paid time off
On-site accommodations and meals

Additional Information

Job Title: Oil Rig Scaffolder
Work Environment: Offshore oil rig. Harsh weather conditions, physically demanding work. Extended periods away from home are common.
Reporting Structure: Reports to the Rig Supervisor or Scaffolding Team Leader
Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $70,000 maximum
Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if international travel is required)
Employment Type: Contract or Full-time depending on project requirements
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 any relevant certifications to [email address or application portal].

What Does an Oil Rig Scaffolder Do?

Oil Rig Scaffolders are specialized construction professionals that primarily work in the oil and gas industry.

Their main job is to build and dismantle temporary metal structures, known as scaffolds, on oil rigs.

These scaffolds are used to support workers and equipment during maintenance, construction or repair work on the rig.

Oil Rig Scaffolders are responsible for ensuring the scaffolding is structurally sound and safe, as it is often assembled at great heights and under challenging conditions.

They must also take into account the unique environment of an oil rig, which can include factors such as corrosive elements, strong winds, and movement from the ocean.

In addition to building and dismantling scaffolds, they may also be required to perform routine inspections and maintenance on these structures to ensure their continued safety and functionality.

Oil Rig Scaffolders often work in teams and under the supervision of a lead scaffolder or construction manager.

Their job is physically demanding and requires a high level of attention to detail to avoid accidents and ensure the safety of all workers on the rig.

Oil Rig Scaffolder Qualifications and Skills

An adept oil rig scaffolder should possess the following skills and qualifications to be successful in their role:

Physical stamina and endurance to work in high altitude and challenging weather conditions for extended periods of time.
Technical proficiency in scaffold assembly, inspection, and disassembly while adhering to stringent safety protocols.
Understanding of geometric principles and spatial orientation to accurately plan and execute scaffolding setups.
Proficiency in using hand and power tools associated with scaffolding work, such as wrenches, levels, and hammers.
Ability to read, interpret, and work from blueprints, diagrams, and sketches to construct scaffolding in line with project requirements.
Strong communication skills to relay information effectively within a team and to superiors, ensuring a smooth workflow.
Ability to perform risk assessments and identify potential hazards in the work environment, taking necessary precautions to maintain safety.
Knowledge of emergency procedures and possession of first aid skills to respond effectively in case of accidents or emergencies on the rig.
A valid certification in scaffolding, indicating an understanding of the industry standards and best practices.

Oil Rig Scaffolder Experience Requirements

For entry-level Oil Rig Scaffolders, it’s often necessary to complete an apprenticeship or training course specific to scaffolding.

This can provide them with a solid foundation of knowledge in safety procedures, equipment handling and basic scaffolding setup techniques.

The apprenticeship could last anywhere from 18 months to 4 years and will provide a significant amount of practical experience on construction or industrial sites.

With 1 to 2 years of experience, individuals might be expected to perform regular maintenance checks on scaffolding equipment, handle more complex scaffolding setups and respond effectively to any unexpected issues.

Experience in offshore locations, particularly on oil rigs, will be highly beneficial.

Those with more than 3 years of experience as an Oil Rig Scaffolder will likely have a deep understanding of safety protocols, equipment usage, and advanced scaffolding techniques.

They might also be expected to oversee less experienced team members and coordinate operations with other departments on the oil rig.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience may be eligible for supervisory or managerial roles, where they will not only be responsible for scaffolding tasks but also for training and leading a team, ensuring safety regulations are followed, and coordinating with other operations on the oil rig.

At this level, additional qualifications in project management, leadership or health and safety may be advantageous.

Oil Rig Scaffolder Education and Training Requirements

Oil Rig Scaffolders are typically required to have a high school diploma or equivalent.

They need to complete a formal training program, such as a scaffolding training course from an accredited institution.

This course generally covers basics of scaffolding, safety procedures, rigging methods, and relevant laws and regulations.

Following the completion of training, it is crucial to gain some practical experience.

This can be achieved through an apprenticeship program where they can work under the guidance of an experienced scaffolder.

Scaffolders working on oil rigs are required to hold a valid Offshore Survival and Industrial Skills Training Certificate.

This confirms that the individual is trained to cope with emergency situations that may arise on an offshore installation.

Some roles may also require a certification from a recognized body, such as the Scaffold Training Institute or the Industrial Training International.

These certifications demonstrate proficiency in scaffold safety and operations.

Continuous professional development is encouraged, including advanced courses in specialized scaffolding techniques or safety procedures.

Finally, physical fitness and ability to work at heights are critical requirements for this role.

Oil Rig Scaffolder Salary Expectations

An Oil Rig Scaffolder earns an average salary of $60,000 (USD) per year.

The salary can fluctuate based on factors such as experience, certification, the complexity of the rig, and the geographical location of the oil rig.

Oil Rig Scaffolder Job Description FAQs

What skills does an oil rig scaffolder need?

An oil rig scaffolder must have excellent physical strength and endurance, as the job involves heavy lifting and working at heights.

They should be proficient in the use of tools and equipment related to scaffolding and possess a good understanding of safety regulations.

Communication and teamwork skills are vital as they often work in a team and need to coordinate their tasks with other crew members.

Do oil rig scaffolders need a degree?

While a degree is not required, oil rig scaffolders must have completed a certified training program in scaffolding.

This program teaches them about different types of scaffolding, safety procedures, and other essential skills.

In addition, some oil companies may require a certain level of offshore experience or additional certifications such as Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET).

What should you look for in an oil rig scaffolder’s resume?

In addition to training and certification in scaffolding, look for experience in offshore work.

A good oil rig scaffolder’s resume will also demonstrate a strong track record in safety practices.

Other desirable traits include the ability to work in a team, problem-solving skills, and the physical fitness necessary to perform the role.

What qualities make a good oil rig scaffolder?

A good oil rig scaffolder is physically fit, able to work at heights, and comfortable in harsh weather conditions.

They should be detail-oriented to ensure that scaffolding is built and dismantled correctly and safely.

Good communication and team-working skills are also critical, as they need to coordinate with other crew members and follow instructions accurately.

What are the challenges of hiring an oil rig scaffolder?

Hiring for an offshore position like an oil rig scaffolder can be challenging due to the physically demanding nature of the job and the need for candidates to be comfortable working in remote, offshore locations.

The pool of qualified candidates with the necessary training, certifications, and experience can be limited, and you may need to offer competitive salaries and benefits to attract and retain talent.

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of what it means to be an oil rig scaffolder.

Surprising, right?

It’s not just about assembling metal tubes and platforms.

It’s about building the framework that supports the pulse of the energy sector, one scaffold at a time.

With our comprehensive oil rig scaffolder job description template and authentic examples, you’re fully equipped to make your next move.

But why put a limit to your exploration?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate guide to creating precision-crafted job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every scaffold is a crucial component of the larger structure.

Let’s construct that future. Together.

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Oil Rig Scaffolder Job Description [Updated for 2025]

Oil Rig Scaffolder Duties and Responsibilities