Career on

a drilling rig

- A world of opportunities
- Highly demanding technological workplace
- 24-hour operations

Career_On_A_Drilling_Rig.indd 1 27-11-2012 12:34:13

 MRSK At work in the rough conditions in the North Sea. A drilling rig operates all year round, around the clock and therefore the crew works in two
INSPIRER 12-hour shifts. the work period on board the rig has a duration of between two and four weeks, followed by a similar number of days off.

Career_On_A_Drilling_Rig.indd 2 27-11-2012 12:34:54

 CAREER ON
A DRILLING RIG
The oil business has always been surrounded by mystery. And to many, it is known as
a place for manual work and lots of grease. But actually, life on a drilling rig is somewhat
different from this. Today, working on a drilling rig equals a highly technological workplace
in constant development.

Maersk Drilling operates drillings rigs
throughout the world. A large number of
the rigs are employed in the North Sea.
A drilling rig is a highly demanding
technological workplace under constant
development. Large sums of money
are invested in automating Maersk
Drillings rigs and, as a result of this, our
employees must take courses and
build competencies to learn about the
use of special equipment and new
technology during their time off. Thus
applicants with a technical background,
for instance fitters, welders, navigators,
engineers, electricians and mechanics
are preferred, depending on the function;
for which they are being employed.
A good knowledge of English is
required since this is the language
spoken in the industry.
Normally, new personnel start out
their offshore career on a junior level. A
number of mandatory safety courses
will have to be completed prior to
taking up a position on the rig. These
courses are the first in a long line of
training sessions, which ensure a
constant development of the offshore
personnels skills and capabilities.
A CAREER IN MAERSK DRILLING
If you have the right skills, compe-
tencies and the right attitude, we offer
great career opportunities that can lead
you anywhere.

Career_On_A_Drilling_Rig.indd 3 27-11-2012 12:34:55

 A 24-HOUR
WORKPLACE
A drilling rig operates all year round, around the clock and therefore the crew works
in two 12-hour shifts. The work period on board the rig a so-called hitch has a
duration of between two and four weeks, followed by a number of days off.

TRAINING
All crew members in Maersk Drilling
regularly participate in mandatory
courses about technology and safety.
For instance, from the position of
Assistant Driller and upwards, all
employees working in the Drilling Section
must, as a minimum, pass a well control
course which includes a test on the
advanced drilling simulator at Maersk
Training in Svendborg. Courses are of
great importance to ensure that proper
procedures are carried out if a critical
situation should arise.
THE FOUR SECTIONS ON THE RIG
The rig is divided into four sections:
the Marine Section, the Drilling Section,
the Maintenance Section and the
Administration Section, and they are
described on the following pages. The
rigs four sections are headed by the
Offshore Installation Manager (OIM).
OFFSHORE INSTALLATION MANAGER
- HEAD OF THE RIG
The Offshore Installation Manager (OIM)
is overall responsible for the rig and for
its personnel. He also ensures that the
clients representative is kept informed
about all activities and operations on
board the rig. Maersk Drilling primarily
employs OIMs who have been trained
within the company. The OIM must
hold a Certificate of Competency as
Master or as Chief Engineer and have a
substantial offshore experience from a
drilling rig. His position is equivalent to
the Captain position on board a ship
and he must take a long series of safety,
environmental and leadership courses
to build up the necessary theoretical
knowledge to lead the up to 180 crew
members on a drilling rig.

Career_On_A_Drilling_Rig.indd 4 27-11-2012 12:35:26

 MARINE
SECTION
The Marine Section on the rig is responsible for the safety on board the rig and all
activities related to Dynamic Positioning, including operation of the jacking system,
crane operations, stowing of equipment and landing/take-off of helicopters. The Marine
section includes the below positions and is headed by the Barge Engineer.

ROUSTABOUT
Most newly engaged personnel in the
Drilling and Marine Sections start out as
Roustabouts, which are more or less
the equivalent to the Able-bodied
Seaman or Odd-job Man on board a ship.
The Roustabout helps with all kinds of
work, including maintenance, cleaning,
removal of rust and painting work as well
as directing the huge cranes on board.
When the Roustabout has become
familiar with the drilling rig and the daily
working routines, he is ready to go up on
the drill floor or to train as a Crane
Operator. Like everyone else, he starts by
being a relief during the meal and coffee
breaks.
CRANE OPERATOR
The Crane Operator is responsible for all
crane operations on board the rig. He is
foreman for the Roustabouts whom he
supervises during loading and dis-
charging of supplies from the supply
boats and during transfer of equipment
on board the rig. The Crane Operator
must hold an Offshore Crane Operator
Certificate and have experience working
as a Roustabout.
BARGE ENGINEER
The Barge Engineer is the naval manager
of the drilling rig. He is responsible for all
work on the deck as well as for the main-
tenance of the marine equipment. His
responsibility also includes the safety on
board, including carrying out emergency
drills on a regular basis and conducting
weekly safety meetings. His position
is equivalent to the Chief Officers
position on board a ship and he must
have some years experience in this
position. Prior to obtaining the position
as a Barge Engineer, a period in a
training position as an Assistant Barge
Engineer must be completed. A Masters
Certificate of Competency is required.
Dynamic Positioning Operator
The Dynamic Positioning Operator
(DPO) reports to the Senior Dynamic
Positioning Officer (SDPO) and relieves
the SDPO on watch keeping. The DPOs
main responsibility is the maintenance
and control of the vessels load condition.
At all times the DPO updates the weights
and weight distribution for the rigs
stability. The second main task is the
control and distribution of the power in
the power control system.
Senior Dynamic
Positioning Officer
The Senior Dynamic Positioning Operator
(SDPO) ensures safe and operational
correct station keeping of the unit above
the desired location and is the primary
watch keeper and person in charge of the
DP system. Apart from that the SDPO is
the watch keeper of the central control
room, which is manned together with
the DPO at any given time. The SDPO
produces the model of the unit and the
weather situation and ensures correct
data is entered into the system. When
in transit, the SDPO functions as the
chief mate of the unit. The SDPO reports
directly to the Offshore Installation
Manager (OIM).

Career_On_A_Drilling_Rig.indd 5 27-11-2012 12:35:46

 DRILLING SECTION
Work related to the drilling operation lies within the rigs Drilling section. The entry level
position is Roughneck and the section is headed by the Senior Toolpusher.
ROUGHNECK
The Roughneck also called the
Floorhand works on the drill floor
and has the hardest physical job on a
drilling rig. He must be on his feet the
whole time he is on duty a period of 12
hours interrupted only by short breaks
for meals or coffee. Another part of the
job is the supervision of the huge safety
valve the blow-out preventer (BOP)
which is mounted over the well. The
Roughneck must also ensure that all the
equipment, which is to be used in the
borehole, is ready for use. A Roughneck
will typically do this kind of work for a
period of time while he occasionally
works as a relief for the next step on the
career ladder, which is the Derrickman.
DERRICKMAN
The Derrickman is responsible for
handling the pipes in the derrick, during
assembly and disassembly of the drill
string. When drilling starts, it is also
his job to ensure that the mud pumps
function as efficiently as possible and
that there is sufficient mud to lubricate
and keep up the pressure in the hole.
The mud must have the correct specifi-
cations as directed by the mud engineer.
ASSISTANT DRILLER
After a period as a Derrickman, there
is an opportunity for promotion to
Assistant Driller. An Assistant Driller is the
Drillers right-hand man. He is the person
on the drill floor who must ensure that
all the equipment, which is to be used
in connection with the drilling operation,
is maintained and ready for use when
necessary. He also maintains commu-
nication between the deck and the drill
floor. Training of new drill floor personnel
is another responsibility of the Assistant
Driller. Finally, he relieves the Driller during
meal and coffee breaks.
Career_On_A_Drilling_Rig.indd 6
DRILLER
The Driller is the person who carries
out the actual drilling. He has his own
workplace, from where he can run
the entire drilling operation. Here he
can take readings of all the necessary
parameters, and perform corrections
if necessary. He keeps a constantly
updated journal concerning the drilling
progress and supervises the number of
pipes in the hole. To obtain the position
as a Driller, good mathematics skills are
required. The Driller is the daily leader of
the drill floor and reports directly to
the Tourpusher or the Senior Toolpusher
on duty. After working as a Driller for
several years, there is a possibility of
being promoted to Tourpusher.
Lead Driller/Tour pusher
The Lead Driller ensures that all safety
regulations are enforced while following
the program the well is being drilled
according to. The Lead Driller reports to
the Senior Toolpusher (STP) who relieves
him when necessary. In alignment with
the Senior Toolpusher, the Lead Driller
liaises with the company representative
in order to clarify well progress and plan.
The lead driller can, after proving the
ability, be promoted to STP.
Assistant Subsea Engineer
The Assistant Subsea Engineer (ASSE)
has a sufficient background as a
mechanic or an engineer. The ASSE
works under the supervision and
according to the instructions of the
Subsea Engineer. The main object of
interest is the blow-out-preventer (BOP)
and its control systems. While the BOP is
on surface the ASSE should be prepared
for a tense and concentrated work
atmosphere leaving close to no space
for mistakes. After proving the abilities
on several occasions, the goal is to be
promoted to Subsea Engineer.
Subsea Engineer
The Subsea Engineer (SSE) is expected
to prepare work scope and plans for the
periods when the BOP stack is on deck.
The SSE will carry out the maintenance
and repairs of the BOP and its control
systems, which is aligned in advance
with the Subsea Supervisor (SSS). It
is expected that the SSE can assess
peoples abilities and delegate tasks
according to their experience. The SSE
reports to the Subsea Supervisor. Those
individuals who have shown leadership
skills and are technically competent will
get the opportunity to be promoted to
Subsea Supervisor.
Subsea Supervisor
The Subsea Supervisor (SSS) reports
to the Senior Toolpusher (STP). In his
function he ensures functionality of the
BOP stack and its control systems. His
main task is to ensure testing of the BOP
according to intervals all stakeholders
have committed to. He heads up a team
of people which maintains and repairs
the BOP and its control systems. During
the intervals while the BOP is on deck,
he supervises the work scope he has
defined before it has been pulled to deck.
He is responsible that all work scopes are
prepared including sourcing of spares and
that all tools have been made ready for
the intended work.
SENIOR TOOLPUSHER
In order to take on the position of Senior
Toolpusher, the employee must have
a thorough knowledge about running
a drilling rig. Maersk Drilling primarily
employs Senior Toolpushers who
have been trained within the company.
A Senior Toolpusher must take a long
series of safety, environmental and lead-
ership courses. The Senior Toolpusher is
deputy for the OIM.
27-11-2012 12:35:46
 MRSK One of two identical ultra harsh environment jack-up drilling rigs in Maersk Drillings fleet, claiming the title of the Worlds
INSPIRER largest and most advanced drilling rigs. The drillers cabin is fully enclosed with touch screen and joystick controls.

Career_On_A_Drilling_Rig.indd 7 27-11-2012 12:36:29

 MRSK GIANT Safety is a top priority in Maersk Drilling and the safety culture is strong.
As part of this safety culture weekly muster exercises are carried out.

Career_On_A_Drilling_Rig.indd 8 27-11-2012 12:37:13

 MAINTENANCE
SECTION
The Maintenance section is responsible for the machinery and the maintenance
of the drilling equipment on board. The section is headed by the Maintenance
Supervisor and he is assisted by a number of positions as described below.
MOTORMAN
The Motorman assists the Mechanic in
his daily work. To qualify for the position
as a Motorman, the applicant must be
Certified Fitter or Mechanic or hold a
corresponding education.
MECHANIC
It is the responsibility of the Mechanic
to carry out the maintenance and
inspections of the mechanical
equipment and systems on board
the rig. To obtain the position of a
Mechanic, some years working expe-
rience as a Motorman is preferred.
ELECTRICIAN
The Electrician is responsible for
maintaining and inspecting all electrical
systems and related equipment on
board the rig. New installations and
modifications of existing ones are also
carried out by the Electrician. He must
be an Industrial Electrician or a Certified
Electrician.
WELDER
The Welder is responsible for carrying out
repairs and modifications in accordance
with the Maintenance Supervisors
instructions. His work also includes
maintenance and service of all welding
equipment. An education as Certified
Welder is required for this position.
SAP Planner
The SAP planner reports to the
Maintenance Supervisor. His main task
consists in updating the information
in the maintenance system P3M
from SAP. He flags urgent jobs and
Career_On_A_Drilling_Rig.indd 9
liaises with the Logistics Coordinator
in respect to spare parts as well as
planning, coordination and support of
all departments with data entry and
extraction of the maintenance system.
Hydraulic Mechanic
The Hydraulic Mechanic reports to the
Maintenance Supervisor and in his
responsibility, maintains the drilling
equipment and its tubular and pipe
handling machines. He organizes and
supervises that the work he has initiated
is being carried out in a safe manner and
according to good workmanship. To be
able to work as a Hydraulic Mechanic
some years of experience working with
hydraulic machines are required.
Engine Room Responsible
The Engine Room Responsible (ERR)
is reporting to the Maintenance
Supervisor. He ensures that all items
required for the power generation are
fully maintained and that all work carried
out in his department is done safely
and responsibly. He is the main watch
keeper for the engine room area and
ensures compliance with all relevant
rules and regulations. He directs tasks
to the personnel in his department and
ensures spare parts are replenished
when necessary.
Electronic
Technician Supervisor
The Electronic Technician Supervisor
(ET Supervisor) reports to the
Maintenance Supervisor and in his
position ensures that all electronic and
electric equipment is functioning and
in accordance with relevant rules and
regulations. He enforces that all work is
done in a safe and responsible manner.
He directs tasks to be completed
by personnel in his department and
ensures availability of spares.
Electronic Technician
(Dynamic Positioning & Subsea)
The specialized Electronic Technicians
(ET DP & ET SS) are in charge of their
respective systems. They report to the
ET supervisor on status of the systems.
The ETs are expected to maintain and
repair the systems in accordance with
relevant rules and regulations. The level
of maintenance should be so high that
break-downs during operations are
avoided to the furthest extent possible.
MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR
This is the technical manager of the
drilling rig. He is responsible for the
maintenance as well as for the technical
modifications and repairs of the
machinery and the drilling equipment.
Being responsible for the electronic
maintenance system on the drilling
rig, the Maintenance Supervisor must
possess good computer skills. He must
also ensure that the required spare
parts are in stock on board the rig.
His position is similar to that of the
Chief Engineer on board a ship. Prior to
obtaining the position as a Maintenance
Supervisor, a period in a training position
as an Assistant Maintenance Supervisor
must be completed. A Certificate of
Competency in accordance with
STCW Convention is required for the
position of a Maintenance Supervisor.
27-11-2012 12:37:13
 Administration
SECTION
A number of administration positions report directly to the OIM.
Logistics coordinator
In his position the Logistics Coordinator
reports to the OIM. The Logistics
Coordinator is responsible for the proper
operation of the Material Management
System. He follows up on requisitions
to be made by the section heads as well
as for conducting inspections of the
incoming materials.
MEDIC
A Medic must be present on board all
drilling rigs. This position is responsible
for providing medical services to all crew
members and for ensuring that the stock
10
Career_On_A_Drilling_Rig.indd 10
of medical and nursing supplies is kept at
the required level at all times. If a medical
evacuation of a person is required, the
Medic is responsible for arranging this
in co-operation with the OIM. The Medic
also carries out a number of personnel
related jobs, including safety briefings
of incoming personnel. An education as
Registered Nurse is required to obtain the
position of a Medic.
Safety officer
The Safety Officer reports to the OIM.
He assists the platform management
in ensuring that the health, safety and
environmental work on the unit comply
with the applicable HSE rules and
regulations. He heads up campaigns and
initiatives concerning work safety and
related topics.
RIG ADMINISTRATOR
The Rig Administrator conducts the
external communication. In addition to
watching radio traffic, including traffic on
the emergency frequency, he provides
the daily weather forecast. Minimum two
years working experience on seagoing
vessels or offshore installations is required
in addition to a Certificate of Competency.
27-11-2012 12:37:13
 MAERSK COMPLETER A medic must be present on board all drilling rigs. This position is responsible for providing medical services to all
crew members and for ensuring that the stock of medical and nursing articles is kept at the required level.

11

Career_On_A_Drilling_Rig.indd 11 27-11-2012 12:37:47

 Head offi ce:
Maersk Drilling
50, Esplanaden
1098 Copenhagen K
Denmark
Telephone: +45 3363 3363
Telefax: +45 3363 3182
E-mail: copenhagen@maersk-drilling.com
www.maerskdrilling.com
Follow us on
Maersk Drilling Norge AS
Christian August Thorings veg 9
P.O. Box 134 Forus
4065 Stavanger
Norway
Telephone: +47 52 01 70 00
Telefax: +47 52 01 70 01
E-mail: norway@maersk-drilling.com
Maersk Drilling UK Ltd.
City Wharf
Shiprow
Aberdeen AB11 5BY
United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 1224 243100
Telefax: +44 1224 243213
E-mail: aberdeen@maersk-drilling.com
Maersk Drilling Australia Pty Ltd
Level 1, 1 Preston Street
Como, WA 6152
Australia
Telephone: +61 8 6436 1400
Telefax: +61 8 6436 1444
E-mail: perth@maersk-drilling.com
November 2012
Career_On_A_Drilling_Rig.indd 12
Maersk Drilling, Baku
9th Floor ISR Plaza Business Center
69 Nizami Street
Baku AZ1000
Azerbaijan
Telephone: +994 12 4978450
Telefax: +994 12 4978467
E-mail: baku@maersk-drilling.com
Maersk Drilling, Venezuela
Edifi cio MCVSA
Muelle Terminales Maracaibo
Las Morochas
Estado Zulia
Venezuela
Telephone: +58 265 4005501
Telefax: +58 265 6311435
E-mail: venezuela@maersk-drilling.com
Maersk Drilling Services A/S, Brunei
Brunei Branch Lot 7272
Simpang 73, Sungai Duhon
Light Industrial Area
Kuala Belait KA3131
Negara Brunei Darussalam
Telephone: +673 223 9955
Telefax: +673 223 9958
E-mail: brunei@maersk-drilling.com
Maersk Drilling Malaysia SDN BHD
(26129-H)
Suite 14.4, 15th Floor, West Wing
Rohas Perkasa, No. 8 Jalan Perak
50450 Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Telephone: +603-21712885
+603-21632884
Telefax: +603-21813888
Maersk Drilling USA Inc.
2500 City West Boulevard
Suite 1850
Houston
Texas 77042
USA
Telephone: +1 713 346 4300
Telefax: +1 713 783 9409
E-mail: houston@maersk-drilling.com
Maersk Drilling HBA, LDA.
Tensai Business Center, 1st floor, Luanda-South,
Talatona Sector, Zone CS8, Gleba GU22,
Municipio Samba, Provincia Luanda.
P.O. Box 6303
Luanda, Angola
Telephone: +244 226430194
27-11-2012 12:37:48