Andrew Collins filed the lawsuit in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, Houston Division, alleging that Noble Drilling violated Title VII of the Civil Rights Act.

Collins, an African American resident of Harris County, claims that he was subjected to harassment, threats, intimidation, discrimination and disparate treatment because of his race, which caused him embarrassment and emotional distress.

According to the lawsuit, Noble Drilling denied Collins the privileges, benefits, terms and conditions of employment. The complaint alleges that the company retaliated against Collins by transferring him to a less desirable offshore facility after he reported racial and sexual harassment. Noble Drilling threatened Collins with disciplinary action and wrongfully terminated his employment, the lawsuit claims.

Collins seeks back pay including lost wages and benefits, compensatory damages, attorney fees and costs, as well as other relief to which he may be entitled. A trial by jury has been demanded.

Noble Drilling, based in Sugar Land, Texas, operates about 30 drilling rigs, including 14 jackups and 16 semi-submersibles. In 2015, revenue from Shell Oil accounted from 49 percent of the company’s income. The company announced mass layoffs in January 2016.

Gregory D. Jordan is an employment lawyer. To learn more, visit http://www.theaustintriallawyer.com or call 512-419-0684.