NSXNational Skills ExchangeSign in
Back to Framework

Roustabouts, Oil and Gas

SOC 47-5071.00Job Zone 2 · Some Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers hands-on oil and gas field operations including pipe handling, machinery repair, pipeline laying, leak detection, crane guidance, and supporting technology use, calibrated to Job Zone 2 roustabout roles at onshore and offshore production sites.

Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Hand and power wrenchesidentify and apply under direct supervision to screw or tighten pipes, casing, and tubing on an active drill site.
  2. Pump and engine componentsbolt together following step-by-step instructions provided by a lead roustabout in an oil field equipment yard.
  3. Flow lineswalk designated routes under supervision to perform basic visual inspections for leaks at an onshore production site.
  4. Pipes and tubingassist in moving loads to and from trucks using truck winches and motorized lifts under the direction of experienced crew members.
  5. Crane signalsrecognize and use standard hand signals to guide crane operators when moving loads across a deck or staging area.
  6. Field trucksclean and maintain vehicles used in oil field operations following established housekeeping protocols at the end of each shift.
  7. Electronic leak detectorsoperate basic handheld devices under direct supervision to support flow line inspections on a production lease.
  8. Gas and oil pipeline sectionsassist in laying pipe segments by positioning and aligning components as directed during a pipeline installation job.
  9. Personal protective equipmentselect and wear correctly on all occasions in accordance with site safety requirements at a Job Zone 2 oil and gas facility.
  10. Hand toolsidentify the correct tool for each assigned task and use safely under close oversight during routine oil field maintenance activities.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Pipes, casing, and tubingunscrew and tighten independently using hand and power wrenches and tongs with minimal oversight during routine well servicing operations.
  2. Oil field machinery and boilersdismantle and perform basic repairs using hand tools and power tools following standard maintenance procedures at a production facility.
  3. Flow line leak repairslocate leaks using electronic detectors and visual inspection techniques and execute standard repairs on an onshore oil field lease.
  4. Gas and oil pipelineslay and connect pipeline sections in familiar terrain, coordinating with crew members to maintain schedule and quality standards.
  5. Pump and engine assembliesbolt together components accurately and verify torque specifications to meet operational tolerances during equipment installation tasks.
  6. Crane load movementsguide crane operators to position and place loads safely across a deck or work yard, applying practiced signaling procedures.
  7. Pipe handling logisticscoordinate the movement of pipes to and from trucks using winches, lifts, or manual methods while monitoring load security and crew safety.
  8. Monitoring and quality checksobserve ongoing field operations for abnormal conditions and report deviations to supervisors in a timely and accurate manner.
  9. Inventory tracking toolsuse inventory management software to log materials and equipment consumed during field maintenance activities.
  10. Work area cleanliness and organizationmaintain trucks and equipment storage areas to established standards, applying attention to detail throughout the workday.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Pipe and casing connectionsperform complex tightening and disconnection tasks autonomously using the full range of wrenches and tongs, troubleshooting thread and seal issues on a live well site.
  2. Oil field machinery overhaulindependently dismantle, diagnose, and repair boilers, steam engine parts, and pumping units using hand and power tools across varied field conditions.
  3. Flow line integrity managementconduct systematic leak detection walks, interpret electronic detector data, and execute permanent repairs while prioritizing safety and minimal production downtime.
  4. Pipeline installation projectslead laying operations for gas and oil pipelines across non-routine terrain, resolving alignment and connection challenges without direct supervision.
  5. Crane and rigging operationsassess load weights and rigging configurations, direct crane movements precisely, and identify unsafe conditions before and during lifts on offshore or onshore decks.
  6. Critical thinking in equipment failuresdiagnose root causes of mechanical breakdowns in the field, selecting the most effective repair approach under time and resource constraints.
  7. Pipe logistics planningorganize the full movement cycle of pipes using winches, lifts, and manual handling methods, ensuring crew safety and equipment integrity throughout.
  8. Operations monitoring across a leasecontinuously observe multiple systems for performance anomalies, applying judgment to distinguish normal variance from actionable problems.
  9. ERP and project management softwareenter, retrieve, and analyze work order and equipment data to support maintenance scheduling and resource planning for field operations.
  10. Quality control analysisevaluate completed assembly and repair work against specification standards, identifying and correcting deficiencies before returning equipment to service.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Crew safety and performanceset behavioral and technical standards for roustabout teams, coaching individuals on correct tool use, leak detection, and pipe handling across multiple active sites.
  2. Maintenance strategy developmentdesign preventive maintenance schedules for oil field machinery, pipelines, and wellhead equipment to reduce unplanned downtime at an organizational level.
  3. Operational risk oversightestablish and enforce site-specific protocols for critical tasks such as crane lifts, pipeline laying, and pressure equipment repairs, integrating regulatory requirements into daily practice.
  4. Workforce developmentmentor emerging and developing roustabouts through structured on-the-job training, ensuring competency progression and credential attainment across the crew.
  5. Cross-functional coordinationliaise with drilling engineers, safety officers, and logistics teams to align roustabout activities with broader project timelines and production targets.
  6. Enterprise technology adoptionlead the implementation and training of ERP, inventory management, and project management software tools for field operations teams.
  7. Incident analysis and continuous improvementinvestigate equipment failures, near-misses, and leak events to identify systemic causes, reporting findings and driving process improvements at the organizational level.
  8. Resource and budget managementplan labor, equipment, and material requirements for multi-site roustabout operations, controlling costs while maintaining service quality and safety compliance.
  9. Regulatory and environmental compliance leadershipensure all pipe laying, leak repair, and machinery operations meet federal and state oil field regulations, serving as the primary point of accountability.
  10. Organizational culture and integritymodel and reinforce values of dependability, cautiousness, and integrity across the roustabout workforce, influencing team culture at the department or division level.

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. Basic AI-assisted leak detection — uses electronic detector readouts and AI-enhanced alert interfaces to flag anomalies along flow lines, following supervisor guidance to confirm findings before acting.
Developing
  1. Equipment status monitoring — reads AI-generated summaries of machinery sensor data to prioritize which boilers or pump components need immediate inspection, cross-checking outputs against direct visual observation WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Guided decision support — consults AI-assisted checklists during pipe-connection sequences to verify torque specifications and fitting compatibility, escalating ambiguous flags to a lead hand rather than acting unilaterally Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Operations monitoring delegation — directs AI monitoring dashboards to track flow-line pressure and temperature across multiple well sites simultaneously, interpreting aggregated alerts to route field crews efficiently WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Critical-thinking triage — applies structured reasoning to AI-flagged anomalies in pipeline sensor feeds, distinguishing sensor noise from genuine leaks before dispatching repair resources Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  3. Maintenance workflow optimization — uses AI-generated maintenance logs to sequence disassembly and repair tasks on oil field machinery, reducing downtime by aligning parts orders with predicted failure windows WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. Autonomous monitoring oversight — evaluates the reliability of AI monitoring systems against ground-truth field inspections, identifying systematic blind spots in sensor coverage and recommending configuration changes to site management Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Cross-system risk adjudication — integrates AI outputs from pipeline integrity tools, crane load sensors, and equipment diagnostics to form a unified site safety picture, exercising final judgment on whether operations continue or halt Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  3. AI tool accountability — trains junior roustabouts to critically assess AI-generated alerts, establishing site-level protocols that define when human verification overrides automated recommendations, preserving worker authority over high-consequence decisions WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Critical Thinking
Score: 57.9 / 100
precision: category_estimate
WEF cluster
Technology Use, Monitoring and Control
technology_use_monitoring_control

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication8 statements
Emerging
  1. Hazard acknowledgment — identifies and verbally reports visible leaks or equipment malfunctions to crew supervisor during routine flow line walks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Tool request communication — asks crew members for correct hand wrenches or tongs using proper equipment terminology during pipe connections Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Shift handover reporting — conveys equipment status, active repairs, and unresolved leaks to incoming crew using structured verbal summary Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Safety incident communication — documents and communicates pipeline leak locations, detection method used, and repair actions taken to site supervisors using field reporting conventions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-crew coordination — communicates pipe placement sequencing and winch operation timing to truck and lift operators to prevent load collision or injury Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Field briefing leadership — conducts pre-task briefings for roustabout crews covering job hazard analysis, tool assignments, and emergency communication protocols before major pipeline laying operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Maintenance documentation standards — authors clear written repair logs for boiler and steam engine part dismantling that enable accurate recall and regulatory compliance across shift changes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
2Leadership8 statements
Emerging
  1. Task ownership initiation — takes personal responsibility for completing assigned pipe-bolting or equipment-cleaning tasks without requiring repeated supervisor prompting Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Peer safety alerting — notifies adjacent crew members of detected hazards during flow line inspections before escalating to supervisory personnel Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Work sequencing initiative — organizes personal workload across pipe movement, bolting, and cleaning tasks to maintain site productivity during supervisor absence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. New crew orientation support — demonstrates correct hand tool and power wrench usage to newly assigned roustabouts during live pipe-connection tasks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Small crew coordination — directs two- to three-person teams during pipe laying operations, assigning specific roles for pipe positioning, winch control, and safety spotting Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Emergency response leadership — takes immediate charge of isolating a pipeline leak site and directing crew away from hazard zone pending supervisor arrival Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Site operations stewardship — leads full roustabout crew through complex machinery dismantling and reassembly projects, maintaining safety compliance and schedule adherence throughout Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Mentorship accountability — takes formal responsibility for developing less-experienced roustabouts' mechanical skills and safety habits through structured on-the-job coaching Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition8 statements
Emerging
  1. Skill gap recognition — identifies personal unfamiliarity with specific power tool types and requests demonstration before attempting pump or engine part assembly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Task reflection — reviews errors made during pipe-tightening procedures to understand root cause before repeating the operation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Learning strategy selection — chooses to shadow experienced crew members during first exposure to crane guiding tasks rather than attempting independently Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Self-monitoring during repair — pauses during boiler disassembly to verify understanding of component sequence before proceeding to prevent costly reassembly errors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Performance self-assessment — evaluates own efficiency and accuracy in locating and repairing flow line leaks against site standard times to identify improvement opportunities Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Procedural adaptation awareness — recognizes when a standard pipe-laying technique is producing suboptimal results in current soil or weather conditions and adjusts approach accordingly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Reflective practice modeling — demonstrates structured after-action review habits to crew following complex machinery repairs, normalizing self-evaluation as a site learning practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Cognitive load management — develops personal mental checklists for multi-step pump assembly tasks that reduce error rates under time-pressured or noisy field conditions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking8 statements
Emerging
  1. Leak symptom identification — distinguishes between visual and electronic detector signals during flow line walks to correctly classify leak severity before reporting Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Tool selection reasoning — evaluates pipe diameter and connection type to select the appropriate wrench or tong before beginning tightening operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Root cause analysis — examines machinery malfunction symptoms to determine whether failure originates in boiler, steam engine, or connected pump components before disassembly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Load risk evaluation — assesses crane load weight, deck condition, and swing radius to identify collision or tip hazard before directing crane movement Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Repair method judgment — selects between field repair and equipment removal strategies for pipeline leaks based on leak size, location, and available materials Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Quality control verification — inspects bolted pump and engine assemblies against torque and alignment specifications to confirm integrity before system pressurization Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Systemic failure diagnosis — analyzes recurring equipment malfunctions across multiple field assets to identify shared root causes and recommend preventive maintenance changes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Operational risk adjudication — evaluates competing time, safety, and resource constraints during simultaneous pipe-laying and machinery-repair scenarios to determine crew prioritization Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration8 statements
Emerging
  1. Two-person lift coordination — works with one partner to manually move pipes to or from trucks safely, matching pace and grip to partner's movements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Task handoff participation — receives and confirms task assignments from crew lead before beginning pipe connection or cleaning work Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Winch team collaboration — coordinates with truck winch operator and a ground spotter simultaneously during pipe loading to ensure aligned movement and load stability Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Repair crew contribution — performs assigned disassembly role within a multi-person machinery repair team without disrupting the sequencing work of adjacent crew members Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Interdependent pipeline laying — works within a coordinated crew to lay gas and oil pipelines across extended distances, maintaining segment alignment, pace, and safety spacing throughout Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-functional site support — collaborates with drilling crew, equipment operators, and logistics personnel to ensure pipe delivery, placement, and connection timelines remain synchronized Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Crew cohesion building — fosters cooperative working relationships across roustabout, driller, and equipment operator teams through consistent communication, reliability, and conflict de-escalation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Multi-crew emergency collaboration — coordinates response actions across multiple roustabout teams during simultaneous leak events, preventing duplication of effort and ensuring full site coverage Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
6Character8 statements
Emerging
  1. Safety rule adherence — follows personal protective equipment requirements and lockout/tagout procedures during all pipe and machinery work without exception Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Honest error reporting — immediately discloses incorrect pipe connection attempts or tool damage to supervisor rather than concealing the mistake Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Worksite cleanliness accountability — maintains personal responsibility for cleaning trucks and field equipment used during shift, completing tasks fully rather than partially Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Peer respect demonstration — treats co-workers' physical safety and workload fairly when assigning manual pipe-moving tasks within the crew Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Environmental responsibility — properly contains and reports all spill-related findings during flow line inspections in compliance with site environmental policies Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Professional reliability — consistently arrives prepared for shift with correct tools and knowledge of assigned tasks, enabling crew operations to begin on schedule Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethical site leadership — models and enforces a culture of honest hazard reporting, equipment care, and fair labor among all roustabout crew members regardless of supervisory presence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Regulatory integrity — ensures all machinery repair records, leak reports, and equipment logs are completed accurately and submitted on time to support site compliance obligations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
7Creativity8 statements
Emerging
  1. Improvised tool use — identifies available hand tools that can substitute safely for unavailable equipment during minor field repair tasks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Leak location problem-solving — combines visual inspection patterns with electronic detector sweeps in novel sequences when standard flow line walk methods fail to locate a suspected leak Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Rigging adaptation — devises alternative load-securing approaches when standard crane rigging configurations are impractical due to pipe size or deck obstruction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Field-engineered solutions — fabricates temporary pipeline leak containment measures from available site materials when formal repair parts require extended lead time Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Workflow efficiency redesign — restructures personal task sequencing across pipe movement, bolting, and cleaning duties to reduce travel distance and idle time on large sites Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Process improvement contribution — proposes and pilots revised pipe-laying crew configurations or equipment staging layouts that measurably increase throughput or reduce injury exposure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-domain problem application — applies mechanical knowledge from boiler repair contexts to diagnose and resolve unexpected pump assembly failures outside the original equipment type Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset8 statements
Emerging
  1. Skill discomfort acceptance — attempts unfamiliar power tool operations under supervision rather than deferring all new tasks to experienced crew members Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Correction receptiveness — receives and applies supervisor feedback on pipe tightening technique without resistance or defensiveness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Repeated task mastery pursuit — practices pipe assembly sequencing across multiple shifts to build speed and accuracy beyond minimum acceptable performance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Setback reframing — treats equipment malfunctions encountered during repair tasks as learning opportunities rather than frustrating interruptions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Continuous skill expansion — proactively seeks exposure to crane guiding, pipeline laying, and machinery repair tasks beyond current role requirements to broaden field competence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Feedback integration — systematically incorporates performance feedback from experienced operators into revised approaches for leak detection and repair during subsequent shifts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Learning culture promotion — encourages roustabout crew members to share newly learned techniques and mechanical insights across the team, institutionalizing continuous improvement on site Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-training leadership — volunteers to rotate through multiple crew functions across a site project to build whole-site operational understanding and model adaptability for peers Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness8 statements
Emerging
  1. Attention management during monotonous tasks — maintains focused observation during extended flow line walks to avoid missing subtle leak indicators under repetitive conditions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Situational awareness initiation — scans immediate work area for shifting hazards before beginning pipe movement or bolting tasks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Noise environment focus — sustains concentration on crane signal accuracy and pipe alignment precision despite loud engine and machinery noise common to oil field sites Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotional regulation under pressure — manages frustration during equipment malfunctions or rework requirements without allowing it to compromise the quality of subsequent repair steps Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Deliberate pace under urgency — maintains methodical inspection and repair procedure when responding to pipeline leaks even when time pressure from supervisors increases Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Physical fatigue awareness — recognizes personal fatigue signals during extended shifts and proactively adjusts posture, grip, or pace to prevent injury during manual pipe handling Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Crew attention calibration — monitors the focus and alertness levels of crew members during high-risk tasks like crane guiding or boiler reassembly and intervenes when attention lapses are observed Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Intentional communication pacing — slows verbal and signal-based communication during complex load movements to ensure full crew comprehension before proceeding Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude8 statements
Emerging
  1. Physical discomfort persistence — continues pipe-tightening and moving tasks through adverse weather conditions such as heat, wind, and rain common to open oil field environments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Task completion under difficulty — finishes assigned bolting or cleaning duties even when equipment is corroded, stuck, or requires sustained physical effort Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Extended shift endurance — maintains work quality and safety standards across long field shifts involving repetitive manual labor without reduction in task accuracy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Setback recovery — returns to pipeline leak repair attempts after initial fix failure without abandoning the task or requiring supervisor intervention to re-engage Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. High-risk task courage — performs inspection and repair activities in confined or elevated pipeline sections where physical hazard and discomfort are present Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Sustained project perseverance — maintains consistent output across multi-day pipeline laying projects that involve repetitive physical labor, variable field conditions, and minimal task variety Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Resilience modeling — demonstrates calm, composed problem-solving during equipment emergencies or site incidents, stabilizing crew morale and sustaining operational response Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Long-term hardship endurance — sustains full performance through extended remote site rotations involving physical isolation, demanding labor schedules, and limited rest conditions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Show O*NET source anchors42 anchors · skillscrosswalk.com

O*NET enrichment · skillscrosswalk.com

Suggest an O*NET correction

Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Well Driller · Tank Setter · Geotechnical Driller · Casing Crew Pusher · Cathead Operator · Connection Worker · Derrick Hand · Drill Rig Operator · Dumper Bailer Operator · Equipment Operator · Field Service Engineer · Field Service Installation Technician (Field Service Installation Tech)
RAPIDS apprenticeships
0074 · Well Driller · 0138 · Tank Setter · 0312 · Geotechnical Driller
O*NET skills
Critical ThinkingMonitoringOperations MonitoringOperation and ControlQuality Control AnalysisJudgment and Decision Making
Knowledge domains
MechanicalCustomer and Personal Service
Abilities
Manual DexterityMultilimb CoordinationProblem SensitivityNear VisionExtent FlexibilityArm-Hand SteadinessControl PrecisionTrunk StrengthStatic StrengthFar Vision
Work styles
DependabilityCautiousnessAttention to DetailPerseveranceStress ToleranceIntegrity
Technology
Data base management system softwareInventory management softwareProject management softwareEnterprise resource planning ERP softwareData base user interface and query softwareSpreadsheet softwareOffice suite softwareElectronic mail softwarePresentation softwareOperating system software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Unscrew or tighten pipes, casing, tubing, and pump rods, using hand and power wrenches and tongs.
  2. Dismantle and repair oil field machinery, boilers, and steam engine parts, using hand tools and power tools.
  3. Guide cranes to move loads about decks.
  4. Walk flow lines to locate leaks, using electronic detectors and by making visual inspections, and repair the leaks.
  5. Lay gas and oil pipelines.
  6. Bolt together pump and engine parts.
  7. Move pipes to and from trucks, using truck winches and motorized lifts, or by hand.
  8. Clean trucks used in the fields.
CIP education codes
46.000046.010146.020146.030246.040146.0402

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.