Mudlogger

Judging by the name, you might think that a Mudlogger is someone who cuts down trees and gets dirty, but nothing could be further from the truth! As a Mudlogger, you work on an oil field, literally “logging” (writing down information) about the drilling mud that specialized devices pull up from deep inside the earth. Analyzing that mud and rock “cuttings” with special equipment yields valuable information that you use to advise the drilling crew about where to drill, and what types of stone, sand, oil, or gas to expect. You can even help prevent disastrous blow-ups by continually monitoring the situation.

Mudloggers work in specially designed laboratories at the drilling site. On land, this can mean being miles away from civilization. At sea, this can be miles from shore by boat. Either way, expect to spend weeks or months away from home, though all your expenses will be paid for and the compensation is usually pretty good.

You often work a 12-hour shift before getting a break, either back to your shared quarters with the rest of the crew, or sometimes to a motel or other lodging if you’re on land. The work itself is extremely detail-oriented. You spend hours at a time in cramped quarters, continually reviewing new samples as they come in, and assessing them for energy potential or possible problems.

Despite not really being part of the drilling crew, you need to deal with workers of all types: Drilling Engineers, Supervisors, and other Technicians. As with any job in close quarters, expect some personality friction. The ability to put your head down, get your work done, and get along with others will take you far.

Keep in mind that being on an oil drilling site is inherently dangerous, no matter how many precautions you take. Safety drills and adherence to strict protocols are key to everyone’s safety.