Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROV’s) are becoming increasingly important in the offshore and gas and oil industries. As oil companies need to go into deeper and more marginal areas, the demand for ROV’s and their pilots has increased.

ROV pilots are well paid professionals who, with appropriate approved training, are able to gain employment in the offshore oil and gas industry. ROV usage is also increasing in the onshore sector, especially in the scientific arena.

ROVs are expensive and complex machines that are usually operated in remote locations. It is important that all pilot technicians are able to “fly” the machines in a competent and safe manner. Downtime caused by operator error is to be avoided at all cost – knowledge of safe systems of operation and the dangers associated with such operations is a fundamental requirement for pilots.

Pilots must also be able to carry simple diagnostics and repairs:
Such skills are an important part of any course of training.

There are good employment opportunities for newly qualified pilots however you should have a recognised trade skill in one of the following areas:

• Electrical
• Electronic
• Hydraulic

(It is also desirable to have worked in one of the areas listed above for 2-3 years).

For persons who do not have one of the above trade skills, as an alternative, gaining a qualification in one or more of those areas listed through one of the technical trade colleges such as TAFE would be necessary.

Your Career path.

As with all new entrants into an industry, gaining initial employment is the biggest hurdle. Once you have achieved this first goal and have demonstrated the necessary skills and reliability, your on going employment prospects will be assured.

Generally you will start off as a junior member of an ROV team of up to 8 persons. Initially you will work with relatively simple tasks and lightweight machines before progressing to more complex tasks and work class machines. After a period of time, usually 3-5 years, you may move up to senior positions of responsibility – ROV supervisor.