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WorkforceGlossary Term

Shift Rotation

A scheduled cycle that determines when field crews work and rest, commonly structured as 14 days on and 14 days off in remote oil and gas sites. Subcontractors must account for rotation schedules when planning crew mobilisation and labour costs. Misaligned rotations between a subcontractor and prime contractor can cause costly coverage gaps.

Related Terms

Resource Adequacy

Workforce

A subcontractor's ability to supply sufficient labour, equipment, and materials to meet contract demands on time. Gaps in resource adequacy can trigger penalties or scope reductions from prime contractors. Subcontractors are often assessed on this before being awarded larger field service agreements.

Remote Loading

Workforce

A payroll method where crew wages are loaded directly onto pay cards or accounts without physical cheques. Common on remote sites where workers have no bank access. Subcontractors must confirm platform compatibility with their payroll systems before mobilisation.

Churn

Workforce

The rate at which workers leave and must be replaced within a field crew or subcontractor roster. High churn drives up recruiting and onboarding costs, disrupts project continuity, and strains client relationships.

Onboarding

Workforce

The process a subcontractor completes before starting work for a new client or general contractor. It typically includes submitting insurance, certifications, and banking details for payment setup. Delays in onboarding can push back mobilisation and hold up first invoices.

Spot Capacity

Workforce

Available labour, equipment, or service bandwidth that a subcontractor can deploy immediately without prior commitment. Primes often source spot capacity to fill urgent gaps during peak demand or project overruns. Rates for spot capacity are typically higher than contracted rates.

Retention Bonus

Workforce

A lump-sum payment offered to keep skilled field workers or subcontractors committed through a project's duration. It is typically paid at a set milestone or project completion. Primes use it to reduce crew turnover during long campaigns or tight labour markets.

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