Instrument Technician (Electrical Engineer)

What You'll Do in This Job

Your Role as an Instrument Technician

As an instrument technician (or "tiffy"), you'll be responsible for monitoring and maintaining critical systems that measure pressure, temperature, and other vital parameters on offshore rigs. You'll work alongside various engineering trades including electricians, control systems engineers, and telecommunications specialists, with support from onshore engineers for complex technical queries.

Your Working Environment

Location & Facilities

• Work on offshore rigs in the North Sea, typically 100+ miles from shore

• Rigs vary from concrete platforms fixed to the seabed (like Andrew's 1978 Ninian Central) to floating platforms

• All accommodation and meals provided - no housework or chores while offshore

Work Schedule

• 12-hour shifts every day while offshore (e.g., 6am-6pm)

• No days off during your offshore rotation

• Common rotation patterns:

  • 2 weeks offshore, 3 weeks onshore (Andrew's pattern)

  • Equal time: 2 weeks on/2 weeks off or 3 weeks on/3 weeks off

  • Some companies offer 3 weeks on/4-5 weeks off

• Overtime opportunities available (up to 14-hour days)

• Some flexibility during quieter periods

Physical Demands

• Physically demanding work - "You do come back knackered"

• Downtime involves sleeping, watching TV, or relaxing

• Safety-critical environment requiring constant attention

How Much You'll Earn

Apprenticeship Wages

• Year 1: £5,500 (starting wage)

• Year 2: £12,000 (progressive increase)

• Upon qualification: Jump to £37,500

Qualified Technician Salaries

• Onshore roles: £35,000-£55,000

• Offshore roles: £80,000+

• Junior offshore technicians: £75,000+

• Senior offshore technicians: £120,000-£130,000

Why offshore pays more: Premium reflects isolation, risk factors, and challenging working conditions.

Company differences: Major operators (BP, Shell) typically offer the best packages and are the most sought-after employers.