I opened my email this morning and it is always the same - an email from someone that I don't know, asking how to get a job in North Dakota.
Current Stats: There are currently 22,000 available
jobs in North Dakota, and with the state unemployment rate below 2%, it's
fairly easy to find a place that will hire you. Finding a job isn't the
problem. A great place to start is jobsnd.
Where most people fail is the planning that is
involved to survive in the region.
1. Don't come alone.
Many people arrive alone. This should be avoided if
possible. Some of the biggest challenges are having access to immediate money
and loneliness. It could take up to 3-6 weeks to get your first paycheck, and
that is if you have a job lined up. Making a deal with a significant other or
friend can be beneficial. Have one person start in oil, and the other in
services, such as a restaurant. This will give you the ability to bring in the
big paycheck while having day to day needs met. Once the oil payday happens,
the supporting "partner" can then look for work that better suits
their desire. I encourage families to come to ND together when it's an option.
The schools, communities, and people here are fantastic – and sparing the
expense of traveling back and forth to visit, more than compensates for
the higher cost of living.
2. Leave your drugs at home
This sounds like a no-brainer, but this is the
BIGGEST reason why people have to leave. The oil fields are strict when it
comes to drug testing. There is a 0% tolerance level due to our high safety
standards. If you're fired for a drug infraction, it is nearly
impossible to get hired into another oil and gas related position. I promise,
the financial gains are well worth it; and your bank account will thank you.
3. Rental management companies
It is much easier to get a home now than it was
before, but housing can still be an issue. Call the local rental
management companies and have them pre-check your credit. Find out the
price ranges and deposits. Most rentals won't allow animals, so be upfront with
the rental companies so they can better serve you. The more places that
pre-approve you, the better chance that you’ll have of avoiding a few weeks in
a hotel. Williston, ND is now the most expensive city to rent an apartment in
the United States. Do your homework and know exactly what you'll need for your
move-in costs and have it ready before you arrive.
4. Have a vehicle and AAA
In the Bakken, every major area is separated by at
least 100 miles. Many newcomers take a train or fly into the region, you will
need a vehicle; and preferably a 4 wheel
drive. AAA is very inexpensive and they have great service in the region.
In the freezing temperatures it is important to have a plan in place in case
you are caught between towns and need a tow, gas or a flat to be
changed. I use their services religiously and have never had an issue.
5. Have a hobby.
Whether you are learning a new language, or
playing fantasy football, working on an online degree, or exercising, it is
important to keep busy. When there is nothing to do, it is easy to get into a
habit of drinking, gambling, or sitting at a bar for hours. This can be expensive, and
frustrating. Put together personal goals that will better yourself, and
invest in those. There are many online services that give free college classes,
books, language classes, or a better understanding of Oil &
Gas industry. Continually invest in yourself so if you ever want out
of the oil business. You will have more skills to offer another company.
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