At sea with Brunel: Offshore Stories from our global specialists

For many, offshore work is less known and a distant concept happening somewhere beyond traditional office job. But for specialists like Robson Luiz da Silva, it’s their way of work. With over 15 years of experience in mechanical engineering, Robson is part of Brunel’s global network of specialists powering offshore energy operations. 

His role as a Senior Mechanical Technician places him in the heart of complex, high-stakes environments like FPSOs, where precision, safety, and collaboration determine not only operational success but also human safety. 

In this article, Robson gives us a candid look into what it’s really like to live and work offshore- what drives him, how he handles challenges, and what being part of the Brunel team means in real terms. 

What motivated you to choose Offshore work?
I have always enjoyed challenges and knowing that my work makes a difference in something as significant as the offshore industry. In addition, it was an opportunity to grow professionally, test my limits, and provide more security for my family.

What is a typical day like for you working offshore?

It’s an intense but organized routine. I wake up early, make sure to follow all safety procedures, complete my tasks with focus, and work as part of a team. Even being away from home, I try to keep a positive mindset, because each day offshore is not only a big challenge but also a learning opportunity.

What is the most challenging part of your job, and how do you manage it?

Without a doubt, being away from my family. But I’ve learned to turn that into fuel: when I’m offshore, I focus on work and safety; when I’m at home, I cherish every moment. This balance is what keeps me strong and motivated.

Can you share a moment at work that you are proud of?

I feel proud every time we complete a job safely and efficiently. There was one occasion when I was directly involved in a critical maintenance task, and seeing the positive outcome of our team’s effort made me feel like an essential part of that success.

Chris took this picture aboard his vessel. "Offshore life isn't for everyone," he tells us, "but for me, I enjoy every day of it."

What does being a Brunel employee mean to you?
For me, being a Brunel employee means much more than just holding a position in a project. It represents carrying the trust of a global company that values competence and integrity. I see it as an opportunity to demonstrate, through my daily work, a commitment to safety, quality, and results. At the same time, it is a chance for professional and personal growth, learning from different cultures and work environments. Working for Brunel, for me, is about taking pride in contributing with excellence, representing the company in the best possible way, and meeting the client’s needs and demands with the highest level of support, whether on a plant, an FPSO, or anywhere in the world.

If you're a mechanical technician, engineer, or specialist considering a career offshore, Robson’s story offers a glimpse into what it’s really like to work with Brunel. It’s more than a job, it’s a chance to grow, learn, and contribute to global-scale projects in an environment that demands your best.

From FPSOs to remote plant sites, Brunel offers opportunities across industries and geographies, empowering specialists to develop their skills, collaborate with experienced teams, and build meaningful careers.

If you are considering joining our network of specialist, take a moment to explore our  latest opportunities on our careers page.

 

From offshore rigs to FPSOs, our specialists are embedded across the full project lifecycle supporting maintenance, commissioning, and safety-critical operations. With decades of experience in engineering, energy, life sciences, mining, oil & gas, and infrastructure, Brunel connects highly skilled professionals to some of the world’s most complex and pioneering projects.

We don’t just provide people, we partner with clients to deliver compliant, safe, and efficient workforce solutions across every stage of the project lifecycle. From mechanical technicians to project managers, our specialists operate in critical offshore environments where performance and precision are non-negotiable.

Discover more about the people behind Brunel projects. Learn more about how Brunel supports offshore operations with the right people, in the right places, at the right time.