Career Comparison Dashboard

Comparing 2 careers • Side-by-side analysis

Data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics & O*NET

Quick Comparison

Career Highlights

When comparing Oil and Gas Workers and Funeral Service Workers, several key differences and similarities emerge. Oil and Gas Workers offers a median salary of $52,610, the lowest among these roles, while Funeral Service Workers earns $59,420, the highest. In terms of job growth, Oil and Gas Workers is projected to grow at +1.0%, the slowest, while Funeral Service Workers is expected to grow at +4.0%, the fastest.

Job opportunities also differ: Oil and Gas Workers has 115,900 positions (most jobs), while Funeral Service Workers offers 59,600 (fewest jobs). Education requirements for Oil and Gas Workers typically include No formal educational credential, while Funeral Service Workers requires Associate's degree.

When it comes to work-life balance, Oil and Gas Workers and Funeral Service Workers may differ, with one typically offering a more balanced lifestyle and the other potentially having a more demanding schedule. Automation risk is lower for Oil and Gas Workers if its score is lower, meaning it is more secure from technological replacement, while Funeral Service Workers may face a higher risk if its score is higher. In terms of personality fit, Oil and Gas Workers is best suited for those who align with its Holland code profile, while Funeral Service Workers matches a different set of interests and strengths.

This side-by-side analysis helps you weigh salary, growth, job opportunities, education, work-life balance, automation risk, accessibility, and personality fit to find the best career for your goals and lifestyle.

Each career excels in different areas, or available data varies between roles. Use this comparison to find the best fit for your goals, salary expectations, and future growth.

Oil and Gas Workers

Funeral Service Workers

Oil and Gas Workers

$52,610
+1.0%

Requirements

No formal educational credential 115,900 jobs

Automation Risk

Medium
35% chance of being automated

Work-Life Balance

3.6/10
3.6/10

Top Skills

Ability to work at heights Communication skills Detail oriented Interpersonal skills Mechanical skills Physical stamina and strength +1 more

Strengths

  • High Demand
  • Flexible Work
  • Continuous Learning

Challenges

  • Burnout Risk
  • Rapid Technological Change

What They Do

Oil and Gas Workers are skilled trades and extraction professionals who operate and maintain equipment used to drill, extract, process, and transport oil and natural gas. They work on drilling rigs, production sites, and processing facilities to ensure energy resources are produced safely, efficiently, and reliably. Their role is essential to powering industries, transportation systems, and modern infrastructure worldwide.

This career is well suited for individuals who prefer hands-on work, are comfortable in industrial or outdoor environments, and can follow strict safety and operational procedures.

What Do Oil and Gas Workers Do?

Oil and gas workers perform a range of physical and technical tasks that support drilling and production operations. Duties vary by job title and worksite but consistently focus on safety, equipment operation, and teamwork.

Common responsibilities include:

  • Operating drilling and extraction equipment
  • Installing, repairing, and maintaining pipes, valves, and machinery
  • Monitoring gauges, pressures, and production levels
  • Assisting with drilling, casing, and well completion activities
  • Transporting materials and supplies around the site
  • Following strict safety, environmental, and emergency procedures
  • Communicating with supervisors and crew members during operations

Types of Oil and Gas Workers

This occupation includes several specialized roles across extraction and production:

  • Roustabouts: Perform general labor, maintenance, and site support tasks.
  • Roughnecks: Work directly on drilling rigs handling pipes and drilling equipment.
  • Derrick Operators: Control drilling fluid circulation and work at elevated positions.
  • Pump Operators: Monitor and maintain pumping equipment.
  • Well Service Workers: Perform maintenance and repairs on existing wells.
  • Production Operators: Oversee day-to-day oil and gas flow operations.

Skills and Abilities Needed

Oil and gas workers combine physical ability with technical awareness.

Core Professional Skills

- Operation of heavy machinery and tools - Understanding of drilling and production processes - Equipment inspection and basic maintenance - Adherence to safety and environmental regulations - Team coordination and communication - Problem recognition and reporting

Personal Qualities That Matter

- Physical strength and stamina - Strong safety awareness - Reliability and discipline - Ability to work long shifts - Comfort with heights, noise, and outdoor conditions - Willingness to follow procedures precisely

Education and Training Pathway

Most oil and gas workers enter the field through on-the-job training:

  • High School Diploma or Equivalent: Typical minimum requirement
  • On-the-Job Training: Learning equipment use and safety practices
  • Safety Certifications: Training in hazardous materials, confined spaces, and emergency response
  • Technical or Trade Training (helpful): Mechanical, welding, or industrial skills
  • Advancement Opportunities: Progression to lead operator or supervisor roles

Where Do Oil and Gas Workers Work?

Oil and gas workers are employed across extraction and production environments:

  • Onshore Drilling Sites and Oil Fields
  • Offshore Oil Rigs and Platforms
  • Natural Gas Processing Plants
  • Pipeline and Transportation Facilities
  • Energy Service and Contracting Companies
  • Remote and Industrial Locations

Work schedules often involve long shifts, rotating schedules, and time away from home.

How Much Do Oil and Gas Workers Earn?

Earnings vary by role, experience, and location:

  • Entry-Level Workers: Typically earn strong hourly wages due to labor demands
  • Experienced or Specialized Workers: Often earn higher pay with technical expertise
  • Offshore or Remote Assignments: May include premium pay and bonuses

Compensation often includes overtime opportunities and housing or travel allowances.

Is This Career Difficult?

This career is physically demanding and safety-critical. Workers face harsh weather, heavy equipment, and long hours. The challenge lies in maintaining focus, teamwork, and strict safety discipline in high-risk environments.

Who Should Consider Becoming an Oil and Gas Worker?

This career may be a strong fit if you:

  • Enjoy hands-on, physically demanding work
  • Are comfortable working outdoors or in industrial settings
  • Can follow safety rules and procedures closely
  • Prefer team-based environments
  • Want access to high-paying skilled labor roles without long-term schooling

How to Prepare Early

  • Build physical fitness and endurance
  • Learn basic mechanical and tool-handling skills
  • Take safety, welding, or industrial training courses
  • Develop teamwork and communication skills
  • Research entry-level positions with energy service companies

Oil and gas workers form the backbone of energy production, performing demanding and essential work that keeps fuel flowing safely from the ground to the global economy.

Key Industries

Oil and gas extraction Support activities for mining

Funeral Service Workers

$59,420
+4.0%

Requirements

Associate's degree 59,600 jobs

Automation Risk

Low
18% chance of being automated

Work-Life Balance

9.5/10
9.5/10

Top Skills

Business skills Compassion Interpersonal skills Time-management skills

Strengths

  • High Demand
  • Flexible Work
  • Continuous Learning

Challenges

  • Burnout Risk
  • Rapid Technological Change

What They Do

Funeral Service Workers are compassionate service professionals who help families plan, coordinate, and carry out funeral and memorial services while managing the care and disposition of the deceased. Their work combines emotional support, cultural sensitivity, and operational expertise to ensure services are respectful, lawful, and meaningful during a difficult time. This role requires discretion, professionalism, and strong interpersonal skills.

This career is well suited for individuals who are empathetic, organized, and comfortable providing guidance and support in emotionally sensitive situations.

What Do Funeral Service Workers Do?

Funeral service workers assist families and manage logistical details before, during, and after services.

Common responsibilities include:

  • Meeting with families to plan funerals, memorials, or celebrations of life
  • Explaining service options, costs, and legal requirements
  • Preparing and caring for the deceased according to standards and laws
  • Coordinating visitations, ceremonies, and graveside services
  • Completing death certificates, permits, and required documentation
  • Arranging transportation, flowers, music, and clergy or celebrants
  • Providing emotional support and guidance to grieving families

Types of Funeral Service Roles

This occupation includes several closely related roles:

  • Funeral Directors: Oversee services, coordinate logistics, and support families.
  • Embalmers: Prepare and preserve the deceased for services.
  • Mortuary Assistants: Support preparation, transportation, and facility operations.
  • Crematory Operators: Manage cremation processes and equipment.
  • Pre-Need Counselors: Help individuals plan services in advance.

Skills and Abilities Needed

Funeral service workers combine technical knowledge with emotional intelligence.

Core Professional Skills

- Knowledge of funeral practices, customs, and regulations - Service planning and coordination - Documentation and legal compliance - Care and preparation of remains - Clear, compassionate communication - Time management and organization

Personal Qualities That Matter

- Empathy and emotional resilience - Professional discretion and confidentiality - Cultural and religious sensitivity - Calm demeanor under pressure - Attention to detail - Reliability and trustworthiness

Education and Licensing Pathway

Entering funeral service typically requires specialized education and licensure:

  • Associate Degree (common): Funeral service or mortuary science
  • Apprenticeship or Internship: Supervised practical experience
  • State Licensure: Required for funeral directors and embalmers
  • Continuing Education: Ongoing training to maintain licensure and skills
  • Certification (optional): Additional credentials for specialization

Where Do Funeral Service Workers Work?

Funeral service workers are employed in dedicated care and service settings:

  • Funeral Homes and Mortuaries
  • Cemeteries and Memorial Parks
  • Crematories
  • Religious or Community Organizations
  • Pre-Need Planning and Funeral Service Firms

Work schedules may include evenings, weekends, and on-call duties.

How Much Do Funeral Service Workers Earn?

Earnings vary by role, licensure, and location:

  • Entry-Level or Assistant Roles: Typically earn hourly or salaried pay
  • Licensed Funeral Directors or Embalmers: Often earn higher compensation
  • Managers or Owners: May earn more with responsibility and business ownership

Compensation may include benefits and on-call pay.

Is This Career Difficult?

This career is emotionally demanding and requires consistent professionalism. Workers must support grieving families, manage sensitive situations, and comply with detailed regulations. The challenge lies in balancing compassion with operational accuracy and personal resilience.

Who Should Consider Becoming a Funeral Service Worker?

This career may be a strong fit if you:

  • Are empathetic and emotionally steady
  • Communicate calmly and compassionately
  • Are comfortable handling sensitive responsibilities
  • Value meaningful service to others
  • Can manage both people-focused and administrative tasks

How to Prepare Early

  • Develop strong communication and listening skills
  • Learn about cultural and religious funeral traditions
  • Practice organization and attention to detail
  • Explore mortuary science education programs
  • Seek informational interviews or shadowing opportunities

Funeral service workers provide dignity, structure, and compassion at one of life’s most difficult moments—helping families honor loved ones through thoughtful care, respectful service, and steady guidance when it matters most.

Key Industries

Death care services