Posted By Bruce Battersby Hi, I had a few questions that I was hoping some of you more experienced H and S guys could answer. I'll kick off by telling you a little about myself, I graduated nearly two years ago with a Masters degree in politics and before that a Bachelors degree. Unfortunately given my subject choices the employment opportunites in this field are shall we say limited! In August this year I decided to take the bull by the horns and undertake my NEBOSH general certificate, (I also did an offshore medical, and BOSIET survival training). I paid for the whole lot out of my own pocket however I am now starting to worry that it has been a bit of a waste of time! I am having difficulty in finding trainee or junior positions (based in Aberdeen or North-East Scotland). The few that I have seen I would guess are maybe looking for someone that has just finished school and not a graduate. I have been considering doing the Diploma but is this really going to help? I have a lot of free time with my current job and I was considering doing a blended learning version of the diploma with a view to getting the whole thing done in 6 months. I would appreciate any advice or guidance anyone could offer. I would be happy to forward my CV to any interested parties. thanks for reading Bruce

Posted By Guderian I would have thought that your main handicap is that your qualifications - although of a high level are not that relevant to the oil/gas industry. Not at the 'shop floor' level on rigs or indeed onshore. So while you may have done your offshore survival course, you will probably need more than that. Some form of engineering/science qualification is usually looked for, to work in the oil/gas industry. Before I get slated (yet again) by other contributors to this forum for my point of view - I would like to make it clear, that I am NOT saying you won't get a job - just that it will probably be difficult for you, when there are already so many experienced and qualified guys available.