After a few years of volatility, Australia’s oil and gas industry is bouncing back. Major LNG projects are ramping up again, exploration drilling is on the rise and domestic gas demand is climbing. The result? A renewed surge in demand for skilled tradespeople across the country, particularly in Western Australia, Queensland and the Northern Territory.
For those considering a career change or return to the field, 2025 is shaping up to be a strong year. Below, we highlight five trades making a serious comeback in the oil and gas sector.
1. Mechanical Fitters
With processing plants expanding and new infrastructure under construction, mechanical fitters are in high demand. These professionals are responsible for assembling, maintaining and repairing critical machinery used in gas compression and refining facilities.
Where the jobs are: Western Australia (Scarborough, Pluto Train 2), Queensland (Surat Basin), Northern Territory (Barossa Project).
Bonus tip: Experience in rotating equipment and shutdown work can command top rates.
2. Rig Electricians (EEHA)
Qualified electricians with EEHA (Electrical Equipment in Hazardous Areas) certification are essential on offshore platforms and remote sites. From power distribution to motor control systems, these tradespeople keep operations safe and compliant.
Why it’s in demand: With drilling operations scaling up again and electrical compliance tightening, EEHA-qualified sparkies are seeing increased demand.
Hot projects: Barossa Gas Project, North West Shelf infill campaigns.
3. Instrumentation Technicians
In today’s highly automated gas infrastructure, instrumentation techs are vital. They calibrate, maintain and troubleshoot the sensors and control systems that regulate pressure, flow and temperature.
Key skills: PLCs, SCADA, loop checks, control valve maintenance.
Where they’re needed: New-build LNG trains, brownfield upgrades and FPSOs.
Why it matters: As plants modernise, those with dual electrical/instrumentation trades are especially valuable.
4. Pipe Welders & Boilermakers
From structural steel to high-pressure pipelines, welding is booming again. Certified pipe welders and boilermakers are essential for bringing new gas trains online and refurbishing older assets.
Certs that stand out: Pressure pipe coding, ASME IX, dual-trade boilermaking/fabrication.
Where the work is: Karratha, Darwin, Gladstone and fabrication yards in Perth and Brisbane.
Emerging trend: LNG projects are favouring multi-skilled tradespeople who can work across structural and mechanical scopes.
5. Drilling Offsiders and Floorhands
Exploration activity is up in basins across WA and NT, creating strong demand for entry-level rig crews. Drilling offsiders and floorhands perform rig setup, maintenance and manual handling duties essential to day-to-day operations.
Why it’s a good start: These are gateway roles for long-term careers in drilling operations, with many advancing to motorman, derrickman and eventually rig manager.
Regions to watch: Canning Basin, Beetaloo Basin and offshore WA.
What’s Driving the Demand?
Several key factors are fuelling the surge in skilled trade demand:
- Major project approvals like Scarborough, Barossa and Pluto Train 2
- Government support for domestic gas production and exports
- Decommissioning work creating short-term high-demand roles
- A tight labour market across mining and resources pulling talent in multiple directions
This is creating strong job security and rising pay rates for many trades.
How to Get Qualified or Upskill
If you’re looking to enter or re-enter the oil and gas industry, here’s how to get started:
- Cert III or IV trade qualification in your field
- High Risk Work Licences (e.g. EWP, forklift, dogging)
- Site Safety Certifications (e.g. Construction White Card, Working at Heights, Confined Space)
- Additional tickets like EEHA, BOSIET and MSIC for offshore or restricted sites
For advanced roles, industry experience and dual trades are becoming increasingly attractive to employers.
Final Thoughts
As Australia re-commits to oil and gas as a pillar of its energy strategy, trade roles are not just coming back, they’re leading the way.
Whether you’re just getting started or looking to pivot back into the sector, now is the time to make your move.
At Enxgy, we connect skilled professionals with the companies and projects shaping Australia’s energy future. Reach out today to find your next opportunity.
