How is North Dakota right now for those actually working up there?

I apologize for casting light on your misconception that jobs paying $1500 per week with 100% company paid benefits with a $0.00 deductible don't exist in every state. I mistakenly assumed finding such a job near your home would suit your needs.

 

Jump on Craigslist. Start with a bigger company you have more resources because you will mess up. Start with hauling water. Learn the basics of driving off-road before trying to be awesome, like me. Try basic, mbi, or rockwater. Look on Craigslist they advertise for housing too

 

Just remember the guys that advertise on Craigslist are usually the worst ones to work for and have the highest turnover rate and are usually the best companies to work for don't need to advertise and have zero turnover.

 

As far as a camper don't bother, you can get an apartment for the same price as rv lot rent now and have more room to move along with a better shower and toilet

 

Would you mind sharing a few examples of the better companies you are referring to?

 

The best way to get a good start in the oilfield is at a major Oil Field Service company. They will do everything for you and pay you at the same time. As long as your back ground is relatively clean, no arrest or DUI in the last 7 or 5 years. Also be ready to pass a hair follicle test and urinalysis. I got my start at Schlumberger, they got me my CDL and it only took 2 weeks.

 

Very good point, I would not recommend anyone work at say...Mbi but it is a great place to get all your certs, housing and get familiar with the area. Give them 3 months then go somewhere else to make more money and not get treated like a number.

 

Where would you recommend someone go after MBI?

 

Not sure if this changes your advice above, but I am a 2-year driver with a completely clean record and no worries about passing any screenings or tests.

 

Talk to people when your out there and get the feel for what kind of work you like and what kind of company you want to work for. Mbi is a horrible fit for me, but maybe it is a good fit for someone else. I like small personable companies but they usually are skeptical to hire. The nice thing about the oilfield is you can bounce around a bit to find your fit and it doesn't seem to matter as long as you have good reason