From some of the guys I know, They start with a 2 month on/1 month off rotation for 6-9 months. You come on a business visa. Then you get the opportunity for full time. Once you are full time, they will get you a resident work permit.

I heard the compound in Dhaharan is not bad. You are just 30 minutes (to 4 hours depending on traffic on the causeway) from Bahrain.

I understand they pay for your kid's private school also.

The big plus is they have a very good End of Service fund after 10 years of service.

Hope this helps.