As oil production in the Bakken oil field has increased, so have demands for jobs. Williston, North Dakota has received most of the coverage, but the jobs boom is regional. The story began to build months ago. The news continues to be hopeful for the qualified and willing.
Halliburton, Hess and Others Are Hiring in Williston and Elsewhere
Six-figure jobs are being sought and found by those with experience in the oil and gas industries, but jobs with less training are available as well. Halliburton is advertising for a wide range of jobs especially in the Williston area. Applications can be made online.
Halliburton is not an oil company like Exxon, but an oil service company. They help oil companies find, drill, and maintain oil fields. Hess is an oil company. Their job requirements in North Dakota are similar to those of Halliburton. Interested parties should seek out exact descriptions and requirements if interested.
Many other companies are involved directly or indirectly in the oil and gas boom. As of November 4, 2011, careerbuilder.com listed 1,142 jobs in North Dakota covering wide range of skills and prerequisites. However, claims are made that available jobs are well into the thousands across the state and into Montana.
There Are Problems with Being Employed in the Williston Region
The winter weather can be brutally cold where the most activity is located. Also, there is already a shortage of housing. Even motel rooms are reported to be full. “Man camps” are reported to be a common source of temporary housing, but with winter approaching camping out in North Dakota could be a challenge.
If the boom continues, resources — health and other human services — might be strained. Williston has received a $12 million grant to improve roads and other parts of its infrastructure.
Jobs Pay Well in North Dakota and Employment is High
Jobs paying over six figures are apparently common. Williston has the lowest unemployment rate in North Dakota — 0 .9%. North Dakota has the lowest unemployment rate in the nation — 2.7%, according to the November 4, 2001 edition of the Williston Herald. Small towns in the region report unemployment rates lowers than 2%. U.S. unemployment is 9%.
Reports of salaries from $70,000 to $100,000 are common for oil rig workers — a great salary, but the work is hard, especially in the midst of winter. Other jobs are springing up from the needs of those moving into the small community. Jobs paying $15 an hour are common.
The average salary in the Williston area is $57,000, with many non-oil jobs paying a $30,000 yearly. Truck drivers are checking into the area. Lists of applicants are long in the Williston, ND region. The area is experiencing strain on its facilities — especially housing. Job seekers can expect lots of competition for jobs, but the hunt could yield great salaries.
Sources:
- "Williston Life-Jobs" (Accessed: November 4, 2011)
- "Jobs in Williston," (Accessed: November 4, 2011)
- “Williston Area Chamber of Commerce,” Accessed: November 4, 2011
Harvey Craft - I am a retired educator with diverse experience. I read anything science, education, and history. I write to share what I learn.
