Instrumentation technicians are skilled workers in the control and measurement fields. While they perform a variety of tasks, several primary responsibilities include the maintenance, inspection and installation of instruments (control panels, gauges) which measure, detect and record changes in industrial environments. They process analytical and theoretical issues, as well as act as assistants to engineers in developing improved system and equipment performances.
While the Bureau of Labor and Statistics doesn't collect specific salary information on instrumentation technicians on oil rigs, they have researched the industry. A salary average of $50,000 annually was reported within the industry during May 2008. Instrumentation technicians are likely to receive benefits including paid vacation and sick days, as well as health insurance.
The minimum education requirement to become an Instrumentation technician is an associate's degree. Degree programs prepare students for introduction to a variety of fields including food, power, computer, telecommunications industry, and oil. Students study flow devices and microprocessing computers, automation, electrical systems, and pressure controls. Acquiring supervisory positions on oil rigs and other fields may require a master's or bachelor's degree (Bachelor of Science B.S. or Master of Science in Instrumentation M.S.).
Employment on an oil rig will present a variety of challenges and is not for everyone. You must be physically fit, willing to work long hours, prepared for a diverse environment and comfortable working where land is not always visible. Oil rig employees are often away from their families for long periods which can be up to six months. Workers often find themselves working in unpredictable weather conditions that can be dangerous at times.