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Assistant Drilling Rig Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Intertek Global

Geotechnical Driller

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

Operate drilling equipment at shallow to moderate depths to perform complex site investigations * Responsible for drill rig transportation * Train and direct Driller Assistants, identify and ...

All JobsDrilling Rig JobsAssistant Drilling Rig JobsAssistant Drilling Rig Jobs in Chicago, IL

Assistant Drilling Rig information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$25

$36

How much do assistant drilling rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant drilling rig in Chicago, IL is $25.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $35.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Drilling Rig jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Assistant Drilling Rig jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Drilling Rig job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,323 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Driver & Civil Technician I

Concordia Group

Carol Stream, IL • On-site

Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Triad Associates (part of the Concordia Wireless family) is a nationwide construction services firm specializing in the development of wireless communication sites, with a focus on supporting telecom networks. We are contracted by major carries to facilitate network upgrades including conversions from 4G to 5G. Our services include construction management, electrical and civil modernization, antenna and line (A&L) tower work, tower maintenance, fiber optic network deployment, commissioning and integration, directional boring, trenching, and excavating. Our expertise spans a wide range of projects.
 
To support our growing client base, we are seeking candidates interested in a combination civil labor and driver position as part of our horizontal drilling team. The Driver must hold a Class A license. 
Drivers will pull trailers / flatbeds behind a truck, while also preforming digging, trenching and other physical construction labor/ civil work onsite at a specified construction site, including loading/unloading of materials. 
THIS IS A TRAVELING POSITION AND MAY INCLUDE STAYING OUT OF STATE FOR UP TO 4 WEEKS AT A TIME. 
Generous per diem is provided along with housing when out of town. A $450 winter clothing allowance is also available.
 
Pay Range: $26.00 - $29.00 per hour 
 
Benefits:   
  • Endless growth opportunities
  • Winter Clothing Reimbursement
  • Per Diem
  • 40 hours of sick time a year
  • 80 hours of vacation time per year
  • Health Insurance: Medical, Dental, & Vision through BCBS
  • Long-term & Short-term Disability
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • 401(k) w/ 100% company match up to 6%
  • 10+ Paid Holidays with 1 floating holiday/yearly
 
Responsibilities: 
  • Drive to and from multiple job sites (many are out of state: MN, SD, ND, IA)
  • Drop off materials, then pick up and load materials
  • Assist drilling and construction crews with on-site duties, digging, trenching
  • Organize and stockpile inventory
  • Scan and bar code
  • Pull materials and organize them for shipping
  • Other duties as assigned
Requirements 
  • Valid Drivers License Class A
  • Experience driving a pickup truck with attached flatbed.
  • Must have some type of construction experience outdoors
  • Experience using ratchet tie downs and power tools.
  • Ability to lift 70 pounds or more.
  • Ability to drive a small box truck.
  • Ability to load materials and securely fasten and rig loads to small trailers.
  • Ability to travel out of state (MN, SD, ND, IA, Midwest).
  • Ability to work overtime/long hours.
  • Flexible to work Saturdays when super busy.
 
Triad Associates is a division of Concordia Group. Concordia Group is a drug and alcohol free workplace including marijuana. Concordia Group is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees