Working in oil and gas often means moving from project to project. It’s part of the lifestyle. But knowing when to stick it out and when to switch can be one of the toughest calls in your career.
Maybe the project’s winding down, maybe the culture’s not quite right or maybe you’re just wondering if there’s something better out there. Whatever the case, making a smart move (or choosing to stay) can shape your income, stability and future opportunities.
Here’s how to evaluate if it’s time to go, or time to dig in.
1. Project Life Cycle: Where Are You In the Curve?
If the project is nearing completion or transitioning to operations, roles often shift or reduce. This is a good time to assess:
- Are there extension opportunities?
- Is there a handover or backfill role coming up?
- Will the contractor or operator redeploy you elsewhere?
If the answer is no, it might be time to line up your next move before demobilisation notices roll out.
2. Red Flags in Culture, Safety or Leadership
You spend weeks at a time with your crew, so if the culture is toxic, the leadership is absent or safety is just lip service, it might not be worth sticking around.
Ask yourself:
- Do I feel safe doing my job?
- Do I trust site leadership?
- Am I heard when issues are raised?
A better culture is worth chasing. There are plenty of projects with strong, supportive leadership and top-tier safety.
3. Are You Still Learning or Growing?
If you’re doing the same tasks on repeat with no new skills or responsibilities, you could be stalling out.
It might be time to move if:
- You’re not being considered for leading hand, supervisor or step-up roles
- You’ve asked for training or upskilling and been knocked back
- Your current role won’t help you reach your next career step
Changing projects can offer a clean slate and new pathways to grow.
4. Money Talks: Are You Being Paid Market Rates?
With demand rising across trades, operations and technical roles, pay rates are trending up. If your rate hasn’t moved in 12 months or isn’t in line with your peers, it’s worth asking:
- What’s the going rate for your ticket and experience?
- Has your scope or risk level increased without compensation?
Sometimes the only way to get a pay bump is to take a new offer.
5. Location & Lifestyle Fit
FIFO, DIDO, offshore – every role comes with trade-offs. If your current swing is burning you out or your roster isn’t working for your personal life anymore, that’s valid.
It might be time to go if:
- Travel is eating into your R&R
- Camp conditions or amenities are affecting your wellbeing
- You’ve got family or lifestyle changes that need better balance
6. The Market is Moving — Are You?
With projects like Scarborough, Barossa and Beetaloo picking up, there are more opportunities on offer than we’ve seen in years.
Signs you should explore options:
- You’re getting calls from recruiters but haven’t followed up
- You’re hearing about mates getting better roles elsewhere
- You’re curious, but unsure where to start
A well-timed move can future-proof your career and put you in line for upcoming scopes.
Final Thoughts: Make the Move Work for You
You don’t need to jump ship at the first sign of frustration, but staying too long can cost you growth, money and momentum.
At Enxgy, we help skilled workers make strategic moves that build better careers, not just better pay packets. If you’re thinking about switching projects, we can help you:
- Understand your market value
- Compare contract conditions and rosters
- Get pre-qualified for new scopes and clients
Ready to explore your options? Reach out to our team or follow Enxgy for job alerts, insights and workforce news across Australia’s oil and gas sector.
