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Assistant Drilling Rig Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

Operate tongs, slips, and other drill floor equipment to make and break connections on drill pipe, casing, tubulars, and other tools. * Assist in rig up/down operations, including handling and ...

... rig site and providing engineering support with guidance from the MPD engineer in office. The MPD ... drilling campaign. * Assist in creating MPD programs, leverage MPD knowledge, and model wellbore ...

Senior Geologist

Palmer, AK · On-site

$80 - $120/hr

... * Assist in day-to-day activities including weekly/monthly reporting, annual reporting, permit ... Experience with managing or assisting in managing multi-rig helicopter-supported drill programs.

Showing results 21-33

Assistant Drilling Rig information

What is an assistant drilling rig?

An Assistant Drilling Rig, often referred to as an Assistant Driller, is a key support role on a drilling rig, typically in the oil and gas industry. Their primary responsibilities include assisting the Driller in operating and maintaining drilling equipment, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and supervising the rig crew during drilling operations. They act as a bridge between the Driller and the crew, helping coordinate daily activities and responding to any operational issues that arise. This position requires strong technical skills, attention to safety, and the ability to work efficiently in challenging environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant drilling rig?

To thrive as an Assistant Drilling Rig, you need a solid understanding of drilling operations, mechanical aptitude, and safety protocols, often supported by relevant vocational training or certifications like Well Control or HSE. Familiarity with drilling equipment, rig management systems, and safety monitoring tools is commonly required. Strong teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills help you coordinate tasks and respond to changing conditions on site. These abilities are essential for ensuring efficient drilling processes, maintaining safety standards, and supporting overall rig productivity.

What are some common challenges faced by an assistant drilling rig and how can they be managed?

Assistant Drilling Rigs often encounter challenges such as ensuring safety compliance in high-risk environments, coordinating with multiple teams on-site, and responding quickly to unexpected equipment or operational issues. Managing these challenges involves maintaining clear communication with the drilling crew and supervisors, staying up-to-date on safety protocols, and being proactive in identifying potential hazards. Developing strong problem-solving skills and being adaptable are essential for success in this role, as drilling operations can change rapidly based on drilling conditions and project requirements.

What is the difference between Assistant Drilling Rig vs Drilling Engineer?

AspectAssistant Drilling RigDrilling Engineer
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications often preferredBachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentOn-site at drilling locations, assisting with rig operationsOffice-based with site visits, overseeing drilling plans
ResponsibilitiesSupporting rig crew, handling equipment, basic operational tasksDesigning drilling programs, managing technical aspects

The Assistant Drilling Rig role focuses on supporting daily rig operations and equipment handling, often requiring technical certifications. In contrast, Drilling Engineers are responsible for planning and managing the entire drilling process, requiring higher education and technical expertise. Both roles are essential in the drilling industry but differ significantly in responsibilities and qualifications.

How to become an assistant drilling rig?

To become an assistant drilling rig worker, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete safety training such as OSHA certifications. Prior experience in construction or mechanical work can be beneficial, and physical fitness is important due to the demanding environment. On-the-job training is common, and some employers may require a valid driver's license and the ability to work long shifts in outdoor conditions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Drilling Rig jobs in Alaska?

The most popular types of Drilling Rig jobs in Alaska are:

What cities in Alaska are hiring for Assistant Drilling Rig jobs?

Cities in Alaska with the most Assistant Drilling Rig job openings:

Infographic showing various Assistant Drilling Rig job openings in Alaska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Nabors Industries rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

59th of 87 rated oil and gas companies


Job description


The Floorhand position is a rig crew member whose primary work station is on the rig floor, however the duties and responsibilities are prominent in every aspect of drilling the well, manual handling of tubular and tools, making up or breaking out during making connections or tripping pipe. The position is responsible for the processes of rigging up/down, drilling and completing the well. Also, maintaining circulating, rotating, hoisting and well control systems.
Location: Prudhoe Bay, Alaska
Rotation: 14x14 or 21x21 (days or nights, including weekends and holidays) - schedule subject to change
Responsibilities
  • Operate tongs, slips, and other drill floor equipment to make and break connections on drill pipe, casing, tubulars, and other tools.
  • Assist in rig up/down operations, including handling and assembling the Blowout Preventer (BOP) stack and related components.
  • Maintain a clean and hazard-free drill floor through consistent housekeeping (washing, chipping, painting, etc.).
  • Monitor and operate shaker units to ensure proper function and drilling fluid processing.
  • Support the Derrickhand in mud systems, including the mud pit, mud pump, and chemical storage areas.
  • Work with the Motorman in loading/unloading supplies, pipe, and other rig materials.
  • Perform preventative maintenance and minor repairs on rig floor equipment.
  • When trained and authorized, assist or relieve the Derrickhand in the derrick.
  • Observe equipment closely to detect unusual sounds or behaviors that may indicate issues requiring maintenance.
  • Adhere to all Nabors safety policies and procedures at all times.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent 3-5 Years of experience.
  • Ability to perform essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodations
  • Ability to wear respiratory protective devices
  • Ability to successfully complete of Floorhand Training at the NDUSA Training Center
  • Must have reliable transportation
  • Work a full 12-hour shift while remaining alert and focused, even during repetitive tasks.
  • Must be able to stand and walk for up to 4 hours at a time, including on steel decks, board roads, gravel, snow, and ice.
  • Frequently lift and carry objects weighing 60+ lbs, including 100 lb sacks and tools.
  • Regularly swing 20 lb sledgehammers and apply torque up to 160 lbs when operating wrenches or valves.
  • Repetitively bend, stoop, kneel, twist, and crawl, often while in Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
  • Ability to work outdoors in extreme Arctic conditions, including subzero temperatures, snow, and ice.
  • Must be able to understand and follow both verbal and written instructions.
  • Must pass all required pre-employment and site-specific drug and fitness-for-duty testing.
  • Must possess a valid Driver's License in good standing - Real ID compliant, suitable for travel to Alaska and the North Slope.

About Us
Nabors is a leading provider of advanced technology for the energy industry. With operations in about 20 countries, Nabors has established a global network of people, technology and equipment to deploy solutions that deliver safe, efficient and responsible hydrocarbon production. By leveraging its core competencies, particularly in drilling, engineering, automation, data science and manufacturing, Nabors aims to innovate the future of energy and enable the transition to a lower carbon world.

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