The oil and gas industry has long been one of the highest-paying sectors globally, drawing professionals from all walks of life with the promise of solid paychecks, global travel opportunities, and long-term career growth. For skilled workers, technical experts, and even newcomers with the right certifications, oil and gas jobs abroad are not just a dream—they are within reach. Countries like Australia, Canada, the United States, Norway, and Qatar are now offering international job seekers access to lucrative positions that often include visa sponsorship, accommodation, and travel benefits.
As global demand for energy continues to grow, companies are expanding their search for qualified workers beyond their borders. This opens a wide door for job seekers from developing countries, especially those who want to work in high-income economies and send money back home. Among these top destinations, Australia stands out not just for its competitive pay, but also for its reliable immigration system and regular need for skilled oil and gas professionals.
For anyone serious about building a career in oil and gas, understanding which countries offer high-paying opportunities with visa support is a major advantage. It’s not just about the salary—it’s about long-term job security, career advancement, and being part of an industry that powers economies worldwide. In this article, we will focus on Australia as a leading destination, showing you everything from job types and pay ranges to visa options and how to apply. This is your chance to discover what it takes to land one of these high-paying jobs abroad and change your life in 2025.
Why Work in the Oil and Gas Industry?
The oil and gas industry remains one of the most stable and rewarding sectors for professionals with the right skillset. Despite global shifts toward renewable energy, the world still relies heavily on oil and gas to power industries, transport, and homes. That consistent demand translates into steady work, high income, and job security for workers in drilling, production, logistics, engineering, and technical roles.
Working in this sector comes with several real benefits. First is the pay. Oil and gas jobs consistently rank among the highest-paying across global industries. Whether you’re an engineer managing offshore rigs or a technician maintaining pipelines, your paycheck reflects the critical nature of the job. This is especially true in countries like Australia where wages are much higher than in many other parts of the world.
Secondly, many oil and gas jobs offer excellent perks. These may include housing, travel allowances, food, health insurance, and even family relocation packages. Companies understand the challenging nature of these roles, especially for offshore and remote work, and they reward employees accordingly. For international workers, these extra benefits are not just nice—they make it easier to save money and support family members back home.
Another key reason to consider this industry is the long-term potential. Many workers who start with entry-level roles grow into supervisory and management positions within just a few years. The industry provides hands-on training, certifications, and real-world experience that adds great value to any CV. Plus, the international exposure can open doors in countries beyond Australia.
With the global focus on energy security, exploration, and production, this is the time to act. Major companies in Australia, such as Woodside Petroleum and Santos, are actively seeking foreign workers to fill important gaps. These roles often come with visa sponsorships, making the process smoother for qualified applicants. So if you’re looking for a field that pays well, offers international travel, and values skill over connections, oil and gas is a smart move.
👉See also: Unlock Your $125k+ Visa Sponsorship Opportunity in the USA
Types of Oil and Gas Jobs in Australia with Visa Sponsorship
Australia’s oil and gas sector is booming, particularly in regions like Western Australia and Queensland. With ongoing exploration projects, pipeline development, and offshore production activities, there is a consistent need for skilled labor and technical experts. Many companies in Australia are open to hiring foreign nationals, especially when local talent can’t meet demand. The good news is that many of these roles come with visa sponsorship, making it easier for international workers to legally live and work in Australia.
One major category is offshore rig jobs. These include positions like drillers, roustabouts, rig mechanics, crane operators, and toolpushers. Offshore rigs often operate on rotational shifts (such as 2 weeks on, 2 weeks off), and pay rates here are usually high because of the remote conditions and long hours. Even entry-level roustabouts with minimal experience can earn solid wages once onboarded.
Then you have engineering roles—mechanical, electrical, and petroleum engineers. These positions often require formal education and certifications, but they pay extremely well and often come with long-term visa sponsorship. Engineers are needed to design, maintain, and optimize equipment, ensuring the safety and efficiency of operations.
There are also project management and health and safety jobs. These professionals oversee budgets, timelines, and ensure that all safety regulations are followed. As Australia follows strict workplace safety laws, qualified safety officers are always in demand.
Welders, pipeline inspectors, and logistics coordinators also have high chances of employment in this sector. These roles are critical during construction and maintenance phases of oil and gas infrastructure. Many companies offer training programs, meaning you can start with a lower-tier job and grow into more specialized roles over time.
For IT and data professionals, the industry is opening up new digital jobs too. As exploration becomes more data-driven, roles like data analysts, control system engineers, and cybersecurity experts are emerging. Many of these jobs are not physically demanding and may even allow remote work within Australia.
Most importantly, employers who need these talents are willing to provide visa sponsorship, especially under programs like the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa. That means if you have the skills and qualifications, you can move to Australia legally and start earning big in the oil and gas field.
Entry-level Skills and Experience Required
Getting started in the oil and gas industry, especially in Australia, doesn’t always mean you need years of experience or a university degree. There are many entry-level roles that provide good income, practical training, and real growth potential. What matters most is having the right mindset, physical fitness, and basic skills to handle the work environment.
For starters, many support positions like roustabouts, floorhands, and maintenance assistants don’t require a formal degree. What they do require is a strong work ethic, ability to follow instructions, and willingness to work long hours in sometimes harsh conditions. These are physically demanding jobs, so being fit, alert, and safety-conscious is important. Most companies prefer candidates with basic certifications like a White Card (for construction safety) or confined space entry training.
For more technical positions, basic knowledge of mechanical tools, engines, or electrical systems is a major plus. Workers with a background in auto mechanics, plumbing, or welding often find a smooth transition into roles like maintenance technician or assistant welder. Short technical courses can also boost your chances and increase your starting salary.
If you are aiming for slightly advanced positions like derrickmen or rig operators, you may need a few months to a year of experience, possibly gained through internships or apprenticeship programs. Safety training is usually provided by the employer, but having certifications like Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET) will make your application stand out.
Communication skills also matter. Even in hands-on jobs, being able to report incidents, follow technical instructions, or work with team members from different backgrounds is essential. English proficiency, both written and spoken, is often a requirement for foreign applicants in Australia.
What helps most is having a strong resume that clearly shows your willingness to work, relevant hands-on experience, and any certifications you have completed. Companies hiring for visa sponsorship roles are more likely to pick someone who shows readiness and reliability over just academic records.
So even if you’re just starting out, the oil and gas industry offers solid options. From support crew to equipment operators, you can begin at the ground level and work your way up—earning well along the way.
Regions with the Highest Payment Structures
Not all oil and gas jobs pay the same. Where you work plays a big role in how much you earn. In Australia, some regions offer far higher wages because of the demand, remoteness, or complexity of operations. Knowing where to apply can make a big difference in your income, especially if you’re coming in on a visa-sponsored role.
Western Australia is at the top when it comes to oil and gas activity and pay. The region hosts major projects like the Gorgon and Wheatstone LNG operations. Workers on offshore rigs or remote drilling sites in this area can earn thousands of dollars per week, especially when doing FIFO (Fly-In-Fly-Out) shifts. Because these projects are located far from major cities, companies often include allowances for accommodation, travel, and food. These extras push total pay packages well above industry averages.
Queensland is another hotspot, mainly due to its coal seam gas operations. While the work might be more land-based compared to offshore rigs in Western Australia, the demand for skilled workers is still high. This region often hires process plant operators, maintenance teams, and safety officers—all of which come with solid pay and perks.
Northern Territory also features some high-paying opportunities, particularly in oil and gas exploration. Though smaller in scale than WA or Queensland, the region still attracts many international workers because the jobs offer great pay and less competition.
It’s also worth mentioning that FIFO roles generally pay more than metro-based jobs. Working in remote areas or offshore locations comes with additional risks and isolation, so companies compensate workers with bonuses, hazard pay, and longer rest breaks between rotations.
When evaluating job offers, it’s important to look at the full compensation package—not just the hourly wage. Many employers offer superannuation contributions, health coverage, travel stipends, and end-of-year bonuses that significantly boost total earnings. These benefits are especially valuable for visa-sponsored workers looking to maximize savings while abroad.
So if your goal is to earn top dollar in Australia’s oil and gas industry, focus on applying to companies operating in high-demand regions like WA and Queensland. These areas offer not only the highest salaries but also better long-term career opportunities.
Salary Expectations for Oil and Gas Workers in Australia
When it comes to income, oil and gas jobs in Australia are among the highest-paying roles in the entire labor market. Whether you’re joining as a new entrant or stepping in as a seasoned expert, the earning potential is massive—especially if your role is linked to remote work, offshore operations, or specialized technical duties. What makes Australia particularly attractive is the combination of high base salaries, regular bonuses, and generous workplace benefits.
Entry-level workers such as roustabouts and floorhands can expect to earn anywhere from AUD $80,000 to AUD $100,000 per year. That’s without including travel allowances or overtime bonuses. These roles are typically rotational, with shifts ranging from two weeks on and two weeks off, meaning that even with breaks, the pay remains steady.
As you move up the ladder, the numbers climb even higher. Drill operators, rig technicians, and pipeline inspectors often earn between AUD $120,000 and $160,000 annually. These are critical roles that demand both skill and endurance, especially in challenging environments like offshore rigs or remote desert pipelines. If you’re trained and certified in health and safety compliance, your earnings can also reach similar figures since safety is a top priority in Australia’s oil and gas sector.
Engineers, particularly petroleum, mechanical, and electrical engineers, are some of the highest earners. Depending on experience, these professionals take home between AUD $150,000 and $200,000 yearly. Senior engineers, project managers, or team leads working on large-scale projects may even earn upwards of AUD $220,000.
Salaries also vary depending on project phase. For instance, during the construction or drilling phase, there is typically more overtime and weekend work, which boosts earnings significantly. During operational or maintenance phases, salaries might stabilize, but you’ll still receive consistent income due to permanent contracts or long-term service agreements.
In addition to salary, most companies provide superannuation (Australia’s retirement contribution scheme), free housing or rent allowances, travel support, and visa-related assistance. These benefits greatly reduce your personal expenses, allowing you to save more.
For foreign workers, this income level is a big deal. Not only are you earning in one of the world’s strongest currencies, but you’re also working in a stable economy with clear labor rights and access to health care. It’s the kind of opportunity that lets you plan for your future, whether that means sending money home or applying for permanent residency down the line.
Visa Types and Options for Oil & Gas Jobs in Australia
Getting legal access to work in Australia’s oil and gas sector begins with understanding the visa options available. Thankfully, the Australian government has structured visa pathways specifically designed for skilled workers. Many oil and gas employers are already approved sponsors, meaning they can help with your visa process and even cover some of the related expenses.
The most common route is the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa subclass 482. This visa allows companies to hire foreign workers for up to four years when local workers are unavailable. It requires the employer to sponsor the employee, and in many cases, these jobs are on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), making it easier for applicants to later apply for permanent residency. Occupations like drilling engineer, petroleum engineer, and safety inspector are frequently listed on the MLTSSL.
Another popular visa type is the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189). This visa is points-based and doesn’t require a job offer upfront, but applicants must be under 45, possess relevant skills, and meet the minimum points threshold. If you already have solid experience in the oil and gas sector and can pass the skills assessment, this visa offers permanent residency from the start.
There is also the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190), which works similarly to the 189 but requires nomination from a state or territory. For those targeting specific regions like Western Australia or Queensland, this option can be beneficial as some states prioritize oil and gas roles based on local demand.
For workers already inside Australia on a student or working holiday visa, there is the option to switch to a TSS visa if you secure full-time employment with a sponsoring company. This is often used by people who start in casual roles or internships and prove their value to the employer.
Another specialized route is through Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) which is for those moving from a temporary visa to permanent residency. If you’ve worked with a sponsoring company for three years, you may be eligible for this upgrade.
Visa applications require careful attention to detail. You’ll need a valid passport, proof of skills or trade certification, a medical check, and sometimes a police clearance. Employers also conduct their own verification to ensure you’re fit for the job.
Choosing the right visa depends on your skills, age, qualifications, and goals. If your main priority is to work and eventually live permanently in Australia, look into visa types that lead to PR (Permanent Residency). Oil and gas jobs make that pathway much smoother since the demand for skilled foreign workers remains high in this sector.
How to Find Oil and Gas Jobs in Australia with Visa Sponsorship
Finding oil and gas jobs in Australia that come with visa sponsorship requires more than just searching job boards. You need to focus on the right companies, meet their criteria, and apply strategically. Fortunately, this sector is actively recruiting international workers—especially for roles that Australians aren’t filling fast enough.
Start by focusing on major oil and gas employers operating in Australia. Big names like Woodside Energy, Santos, Chevron Australia, Shell, and INPEX frequently post openings for both offshore and onshore roles. These companies are known for hiring international talent and are officially listed as approved business sponsors with the Australian government. Check their careers pages regularly and tailor your CV to match the listed job requirements.
Job boards such as SEEK, Indeed Australia, and OilandGasJobSearch are also valuable. Use specific keywords like “visa sponsorship,” “FIFO oil jobs,” or “offshore rig Australia” to filter your search. Many listings clearly state if the employer is offering visa assistance, which saves time and helps you focus on serious opportunities.
LinkedIn is another powerful tool, especially when connecting with recruiters directly. Build a solid profile, highlighting your work history, safety certifications, and technical skills. Join oil and gas professional groups and follow companies hiring in Australia. Don’t be afraid to message recruiters or HR managers. Many are open to direct applications, especially if your skills match a hard-to-fill position.
Certifications also play a key role. If you don’t already have them, consider investing in BOSIET (Basic Offshore Safety Training), confined space training, or rigging/dogging licenses. These qualifications are often required before you can start work and show employers that you’re serious about the job.
Make sure your CV is focused and easy to scan. Highlight relevant experience, tools or machinery you’re familiar with, certifications, and language skills. Many hiring managers prefer resumes that clearly show you’re job-ready and available for relocation.
Finally, once you land an interview, be honest about your visa needs. Most employers with sponsorship capacity are prepared for this and will guide you through the process. If selected, they often work closely with registered migration agents to ensure smooth visa processing.
In summary, your success depends on being proactive. Australia’s oil and gas sector is hiring—and if you position yourself properly, there’s no reason you can’t be on the next flight out, ready to start a high-paying job with full legal support.