Floorman

Impact: Direct Operational

Operate slips, elevators, and tongs to facilitate tubular handling, assist with tripping and connections, and support equipment readiness, ensuring safety and efficiency on the rig floor.

What the day looks like

People interaction
Extensive
Team vs solo
Team-oriented
Client facing
Rarely
Impact visibility
Low
Travel
High
Schedule flexibility
Rigid
Remote work
On-site Only
Typical work hours
12-hour shifts
Stress level
High

At a glance

Median salary
$55,000
Entry-level
$45,000
Senior
$75,000
Growth by 2033
Stable
Demand
Stable
Freelance potential
Low
Salary growth potential
Moderate
Typical student debt
$0 - $10,000

Skills you'll use

Hard skills

  • Tubular Handling
  • Rigging and Lifting
  • Equipment Inspection

Soft skills

  • Situational Awareness
  • Communication
  • Teamwork

Technical complexity: Moderate

How to get there

Minimum education
High School Diploma or GED
Licensing
No
Years to mid-career
1-2 years
Years to senior
3 to 5 years
Career switching
Moderate

Where this career leads

How people arrive here

    Where you can go from here

      Typical progression

      1. Derrickman
      2. Assistant Driller
      3. Driller
      4. Rig Manager/Toolpusher

      Future outlook

      Automation probability
      Low
      AI disruption risk
      Very Low
      Demand trend
      Stable

      How people feel about it

      Overall satisfaction
      3.5/10
      Meaning
      3.5/10
      Work-life balance
      3/10
      Prestige
      5/10
      Social perception
      Moderate

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