Jack-Up is not just a drilling rig on legs — it’s an entire industry with high stakes, complex technology, and excellent opportunities for specialists, especially mechanics, drillers, and DP officers. So, who controls the market in 2025?
🔝 Top Jack-Up Operators in the World
-
Valaris (USA) — 52 rigs. A market giant with a global fleet, operating from the Gulf of Mexico to the Persian Gulf.
-
Shelf Drilling (UAE) — 31 rigs. Specializes in shallow-water operations across MENA and the Indian Ocean. Frequently hires crew directly.
-
Noble Corporation (USA) — 27 rigs. Active in the North Sea, Latin America, and West Africa. Known for high levels of automation.
-
Borr Drilling (Bermuda) — 23 rigs. A modern fleet focused on cutting-edge technologies. Works with major clients like Exxon and Equinor.
-
ADNOC Drilling (UAE) — 22 rigs. A key player in the UAE and the wider Persian Gulf region.
-
Seadrill (Bermuda) — 18 rigs. Re-emerging after restructuring. Operating in Nigeria, Brazil, and Asia.
-
COSL (China) — 16 rigs. Leader in China’s offshore sector, actively expanding in the South China Sea and Indonesia.
-
Saipem (Italy) — 13 Jack-Ups. A European heavyweight, often involved in complex EPCI contracts.
-
Noble Drilling (Denmark) — 11 rigs. Result of the Maersk and Noble merger.
-
KCA Deutag (UK) — 9 rigs. Strong presence in Iraq and North Africa.
Why is this important?
Knowing the key market players means understanding where to send your resume, what to expect from a project, and which certifications are actually in demand (BOSIET, HUET, H2S — almost always required).
