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Apprentice Oil Rig Jobs in Boulder, CO (NOW HIRING)

Experience working in construction, utility locating, or oil & gas is preferred, but not required ... Some benefits may include health insurance, apprenticeship and skilled training, continuing ...

HDD Operator

Denver, CO · On-site

$18 - $23.75/hr

... oil, electric and telecommunications industry. We are headquartered in Minnesota, with branch ... Experience with 9X13 Vermeer horizontal directional drill rig. Job Requirements: * Minimum five ...

HDD Operator

Denver, CO · On-site

$18 - $23.75/hr

... oil, electric and telecommunications industry. We are headquartered in Minnesota, with branch ... Experience with 9X13 Vermeer horizontal directional drill rig. Job Requirements: * Minimum five ...

Apprentice Oil Rig information

See Boulder, CO salary details

$12

$22

$38

How much do apprentice oil rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice oil rig in Boulder, CO is $22.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.93 and $24.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an apprentice oil rig?

An Apprentice Oil Rig job is an entry-level position designed to train individuals in the essential skills needed to work on an oil rig. Apprentices assist experienced crew members with tasks such as equipment maintenance, drilling operations, and safety procedures. The role requires physical stamina, adherence to strict safety protocols, and a willingness to work in challenging offshore or onshore environments. Over time, apprentices gain hands-on experience and can advance to higher positions within the oil and gas industry.

What can I expect from the work environment and daily routine as an apprentice oil rig?

As an Apprentice Oil Rig worker, you will typically work long shifts in a physically demanding outdoor environment, sometimes in remote offshore or land-based locations. The role often involves rotating schedules, such as two weeks on and two weeks off, and requires performing both routine maintenance and assisting experienced crew members with drilling operations. You will participate in regular safety briefings, operate and maintain various equipment, and be trained in emergency response procedures. Teamwork is essential, as you’ll be working closely with colleagues to ensure operational efficiency and safety. Over time, apprentices can gain valuable experience and certifications leading to higher-level positions such as Derrickhand or Driller.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an apprentice oil rig?

To thrive as an Apprentice Oil Rig worker, you need physical stamina, a basic understanding of mechanical systems, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with safety protocols, hand and power tools, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential, with certifications like H2S safety or first aid/CPR often required. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this demanding environment. These qualities are critical to ensure safety, effective operations, and successful integration into a high-risk, team-oriented workplace.

Can you do an apprenticeship on an oil rig?

Yes, apprenticeships on oil rigs are available and typically involve on-the-job training combined with classroom instruction. These programs often require candidates to meet minimum age and educational requirements, and they may include certifications such as H2S safety training and basic offshore safety induction. Apprenticeships provide hands-on experience in drilling, maintenance, and safety procedures in the offshore environment.

How do I get a job on an apprentice oil rig with no experience?

To become an apprentice oil rig worker with no experience, you should look for entry-level trainee programs offered by oil companies or contractors, which often provide on-the-job training. Having a high school diploma or equivalent, physical fitness, and a willingness to learn are important; obtaining basic safety certifications like OSHA or H2S can improve your chances. Applying directly to companies and demonstrating a strong work ethic can help you start in entry-level roles such as roustabout or general laborer, which can lead to more advanced positions over time.

What are the most commonly searched types of Oil Rig jobs in Boulder, CO?

The most popular types of Oil Rig jobs in Boulder, CO are:

What job categories do people searching Apprentice Oil Rig jobs in Boulder, CO look for?

The top searched job categories for Apprentice Oil Rig jobs in Boulder, CO are:

Infographic showing various Apprentice Oil Rig job openings in Boulder, CO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,505 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

Hydrovac Operator

Denver, CO • On-site

Prim
Public Relations Agencies • 11 - 50 employees

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Job Overview:

Primoris Services Corporation is a leading provider of critical infrastructure services to the utility, energy, and renewables markets throughout the United States and Canada.

Q3 Contracting (Q3C), a division of Primoris Services Corporation, is a publicly owned and operated construction contracting company that provides both specific and turnkey services for its customers in the gas, oil, electric and telecommunications industry. We are headquartered in Minnesota, with branch offices in Colorado, Wisconsin, Iowa, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota.

Seeking a Hydrovac Operator to operate Hydrovac trucks and equipment in a safe and effective manner. This position requires performing non-destructive excavation using high-pressure water and vacuum systems, as well as transporting materials to and from job sites, ensuring DOT compliance and assisting with set-up and maintenance. Experience working in construction, utility locating, or oil & gas is preferred, but not required.

Key Responsibilities / Position Expectations:

  • Work in physically demanding environments including confined spaces, trenches, and around heavy machinery
  • Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Availability for overtime, weekends, and occasional travel (based on job site location)
  • Respond to emergency jobs outside of regular hours when required (on-call duties)
  • Follow all FMCSA and DOT regulations regarding driving hours, inspections, and reporting
  • Maintain accurate documentation of work performed (e.g., logs, inspection reports, photos & videos)
  • Adhere to all company safety protocols and industry regulations
  • Conduct pre- and post-trip inspections of the truck and equipment
  • Use personal protective equipment (PPE) appropriately and maintain equipment cleanliness
  • Report safety hazards or mechanical issues immediately
  • Work collaboratively with crew members, supervisors, and clients on site
  • Communicate clearly and professionally to ensure job completion and safety
  • Represent the company with professionalism and respect at all times
  • Ability to operate and troubleshoot Hydrovac equipment and associated tools
  • Strong understanding of underground utility line identification and safe digging practices

Qualifications / Position Requirements:

  • Possess a valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with air brake and tanker endorsements
  • Maintain a clean driving record in accordance with company and DOT standards
  • Prior Hydrovac or vacuum truck experience is preferred
  • OSHA certifications (e.g., Confined Space, HAZWOPER) are preferred but not required.
  • Capable of lifting 50+ lbs. regularly and standing/walking for long periods
  • Comfortable working in noisy, dusty, or hazardous environments


    Q3 Contracting is a drug-free environment, and all candidates are subject to drug testing.

    Compensation and Benefits:

    Q3 Contracting provides competitive market pay, with a comprehensive benefit package that includes:

    • Competitive compensation paid weekly. Wage dependent upon union scale.
    • This is a union position, which means additional benefits may be offered directly through the union. Some benefits may include health insurance, apprenticeship and skilled training, continuing education, pension plans, and other resources. For more information, contact the local union.

    Qualified Veterans, Minorities and Women encouraged to apply.

    Company Overview:

    Primoris Gas Operations, which consist of companies such as Q3 Contracting, ARB, Primoris Distribution Services, Snelson and Pipejacking Trenchless, has over 60 years of experience working in the natural gas distribution industry. Over this time, we have maintained numerous customer relationships spanning more than two decades. Providing a safe environment, quality workmanship, and exceptional value to our customers is the foremost focus of our operations.

    EEO Statement

    We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

    Agency Statement

    We are not accepting resumes from Third Party Recruiting Firms for this position. If you are an Agency or Search firm representative, contact the Primoris Talent Acquisition Manager directly for consideration. Primoris or its subsidiaries will not be responsible for any fees arising from the use of resumes and online response forms through this source. In addition, Primoris or its subsidiaries will not be responsible for any fees on unsolicited resumes that are submitted to any member of the Staffing or Operations team. Primoris has established an approved vendor program for this service and will only consider accepting submissions from those approved firms. For consideration in becoming an approved vendor, contact HR.

    Equal Opportunity Employer

    This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.