Field engineers use a flexible tube with a camera on the end to carry out inspection scopes on caissons which are supporting pipes for oil rig platforms. They pass this large tool down the caissons and look for any damage and check the integrity of the equipment is still fit for use. Once the data is collected a report is collated and a decision is made on whether to repair, change or replace any damaged parts. 

The Work

You could be: 

• preparing kits ready to be shipped offshore
• working offshore putting a large hoist with a camera at the end down the caisson (supporting pipes for oil rig platforms) to inspect for damage from top to bottom 
• looking on a screen for any damage and making sure everything is in good working condition and fit for purpose 
• measuring the size of any damage using special equipment and entering this data into a computer 
• producing a temporary report from data captured while offshore 
• writing up a full report including stills captured from camera when back onshore 
• passing this information onto offshore operators who will decide whether any parts need repaired, changed or replaced 
• ensuring all equipment is well maintained and in good condition. 

Pay

The figures below are only a guide. Actual pay rates may vary, depending on: 

• where you work 
• the size of the company or organisation you work for 
• the demand for the job 

Starting salary for field technicians would be around £22,000 to £24,000 a year. This would rise with experience. Any days worked offshore are paid at a daily rate of between £75 and £150 a day depending on experience. 

Conditions

• You can work in a workshop onshore or on a rig or platform offshore. 
• Onshore hours are mostly regular, Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 5.00pm, but you might occasionally work evenings and weekends. 
• Offshore working hours are normally 12-hour shifts, including nights, and you can spend one or two weeks there at a time. 
• When offshore you would wear protective clothing and safety equipment such as gloves, boots and a hard hat.  
• You have to fly by helicopter between the rig or platform and onshore.  
• When offshore, you would live in shared accommodation and meals are provided. 
• There are many opportunities to work abroad. 

Useful Subjects

• Applications of Mathematics
• Design and Manufacture
• Engineering (SCQF Level 6)
• Engineering Science
• Mathematics
• Physics
• SfW Energy
• SfW Engineering Skills

Getting In

• The main entry route is through an Apprenticeship programme in engineering. This may be a Modern Apprenticeship or a company programme such as AISUS. Entry requirements are usually a minimum of 4 subjects at National 5 including English, Maths and science subjects. 
• You may complete the Foundation Apprenticeship in Engineering (SCQF Level 6) while in S5 or S6. Entry varies from subjects at National 5 to 1or 2 Highers. 
• You may wish to go to college first and complete an introductory level course (SCQF Level 4-6) in an engineering discipline, preferably mechanical engineering. 
• To work offshore you must pass a medical examination every 2 years. 
• You must also pass an offshore survival course such as the Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training Certificate (BOSIET).  
• You may also have to undertake the Minimum Industry Safety Training (MIST) course. 

Job Outlook Scotland

Job Outlook Scotland and UK

  Scotland

2025

6681

0.3 %

FALL

2030

6659

  United Kingdom

2025

72794

2.6 %

RISE

2030

74717

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What Does it Take?

You should have: 

• excellent written and oral communication skills 
• a creative approach to solving problems 
• a good awareness of health and safety 
• the ability to work to deadlines. 

You need: 

• excellent IT skills 
• be able to work well as part of a team 
• to be able to observe regulations and follow instructions when offshore. 

Training

• You may have to do other courses such as rigging, ultrasonic testing and rope training. 
• You must keep up to date with new developments throughout your career. 

Getting On

• After your apprenticeship you may move on to lead technician. 
• With experience you could move into management. 

More Information

The My Energy Future website provides information on the energy industry and careers available. 

Contacts

The following organisations may be able to provide further information.