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Assistant Drilling Rig Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Drilling Rig information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$13

$22

$32

How much do assistant drilling rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant drilling rig in Springfield, MO is $22.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $31.06 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.

Driller Assistant - Licensed CDL A

Environmental Works Inc

Springfield, MO • On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

ENVIRONMENTAL DRILLER ASSISTANT | ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Perform strenuous physical labor associated with drilling activities, such as rig operation, soil/groundwater sample collection, waste removal, and other remediation services.
  • Follow applicable safety rules, regulations, guidelines, policies, and site-specific safety plans when performing cleanup activities and donning protective gear.
  • Be knowledgeable and follow DOT laws and regulations regarding driving a CDL Class A combination vehicle/trailer.
  • Assist with operation of various drilling rigs (Geoprobes, Air Rotary, Sonic).
  • Perform routine inspection and preventive maintenance on drilling rigs and equipment.
  • Travel up to 50% via driving a company vehicle.

ENVIRONMENTAL DRILLER ASSISTANT | REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Valid CDL - A License
  • License/Apprenticeship for the states of Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, Nebraska, New Mexico and Kansas (or willingness to acquire apprenticeship immediately after hire).
  • 40-hour HAZWOPER certified required

ENVIRONMENTAL DRILLER ASSISTANT | PREFERRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Experience operating skid loaders, mini-excavators, or similar equipment is a plus.

ENVIRONMENTAL DRILLER ASSISTANT | COMPETENCIES:

  • Familiarity Hazardous Waste Operations (HAZWOPER).
  • Mechanical knowledge and ability to troubleshoot and repair issues related to small diesel engines and hydraulic power systems.
  • Must be able to interpret and follow written and oral instructions and assignments.
  • General knowledge of computers, for basic time and project entry purposes.
  • Must demonstrate general knowledge of operations and ability to safely operate assigned equipment.
  • Ability to work as a team and learn new skills is a requirement.
  • Knowledge of drilling technology/methods (direct push, auger, air and mud rotary, sonic).

ENVIRONMENTAL DRILLER ASSISTANT | OTHER DUTIES:

  • Perform other duties as assigned.

ENVIRONMENTAL DRILLER ASSISTANT | POSITION TYPE AND EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK:

  • This is a full-time position. Ability to work flexible hours with some weekend and holiday work required. Position will include out of town assignments.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Work is performed mostly in an uncontrolled atmosphere. Exposure to harsh conditions such as: dust, fumes, chemicals, hazardous materials, noise, and varying weather and temperatures for long periods of time is possible. All employees are required to follow safety standards and wear all personal protective equipment in designated areas. Work in diverse environments such as confined spaces, various heights, and storage tanks. Work outdoors in all weather conditions; extreme heat, cold, dry or wet environment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to walk, stand, use hands and fingers, grip, handle or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; and talk and hear. Ability to regularly lift and carry 50 pounds. Sitting 10%, standing/walking 90%.

AAP/EEO:

Environmental Works provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfers, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

ENVIRONMENTAL DRILLER ASSISTANT | POSITION SUMMARY:

The Environmental Drilling Assistant will report to the Drilling Lead on daily operation and project progress. Technician will perform work at various project locations performing drilling techniques to acquire soil and groundwater samples for internal and external clients. The Technician will work directly with the Driller Lead daily to ensure project expectations are met, in an efficient, timely, and safe manner. The ideal candidate will understand the requirements and techniques required to effectively and safely operate various drilling rigs.

PAY RANGE

$28 - $32/hr

BENEFITS

  • 1700/3400* Deductible Health Insurance Plans Available
  • 3400 includes Health Savings Plan (HSA) Company Contribution with Employee Contribution
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • 401k | Up to 4% Company Match

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS

  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Career and Personal Development Resources and Training
  • Safety Boot Reimbursement
  • Gym Membership Reimbursement
  • Company Cell Phone
  • Company paid lodging and per diem
  • Quarterly Bonus when eligible


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