Glad I went to college.
He probably brings home more than the average college grad, at least he did before being laid off.
A roughneck should expect to earn approximately $60,000 a year starting salary. This salary is just an average as some may make less and certainly many make more. The more experience you have, the more you can earn. In addition, those roughnecks who are stationed at remote rigs will earn higher pay. There are also often bonuses and salary increases each year when a worker meets expectations and performs up to standards while remaining safe.
http://www.jobmonkeyjobs.com/cm/oil_jobs/rig_roughnecks
Note that pay for this type of work varies a lot on location and demand.