Industrial Action

A rotation model where workers are flown to remote job sites for a set number of days, then returned home. Subcontractors must account for mobilisation costs and crew availability when bidding FIFO contracts. Rotation schedules vary widely, such as 14 days on and 14 days off.

A self-employed individual or company hired to complete specific work under contract, rather than as an employee. In field service, this covers most subcontractors supplying labour or specialised skills to operators and prime contractors. Independent contractors are responsible for their own taxes, insurance, and equipment.

A legal situation where both a subcontractor and a client company share employer responsibilities over a worker. This creates liability risks around benefits, termination, and labour standards if boundaries aren't clearly defined. Subcontractors should maintain clear contracts and independent operating practices to avoid unintended co-employment claims.

A specialised team deployed to pump high-pressure fluid into a wellbore to stimulate production. For subcontractors, these crews are typically mobilised on short-term contracts tied to a frac campaign schedule. Crew size, certifications, and equipment requirements are usually dictated by the operating company or prime contractor.

A U.S.-based industry association representing energy sector employers and workforce development initiatives. For subcontractors, it publishes training standards and competency frameworks used by operators to qualify field crews. Membership can signal credibility when bidding on contracts with major energy clients.

When a client or prime contractor withholds earned pay from field workers or subcontractors through unpaid overtime, illegal deductions, or misclassified labour. It exposes subcontractors to legal liability if it occurs within their own crew management. Provincial labour standards apply regardless of contract wording.

When Your Crew's Behaviour Becomes a Business Problem: Managing Field Conduct on Active Subcontracts

What subcontractors are liable for when field personnel create conflict on a GC-managed site, and how to protect your contracts before it becomes a termination issue.

How to Get Your First Oilfield Job: A Practical Guide for Tradespeople and CDL Holders

No oilfield experience? No problem. Learn which certifications, service lines, and job boards actually get tradespeople and CDL holders hired.

From the Field to the Office: What Oilfield Workers Should Know Before Making the Switch

Thinking about moving from field work to an office role? This guide covers how your field experience translates into technical and operations positions, what the transition actually looks like, and the trade-offs most people do not talk about until it is too late.