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Assistant Oil Rig Jobs in Bakersfield, CA (NOW HIRING)

NABORS

RigCLOUD Technician I - California

Bakersfield, CA

$20.50 - $28/hr

Experience with oilfield drilling or service rigs is an asset. * PHYSICAL AND WORK ENVIORNMENT ... Monitor rig movement and activity in assigned regions; assist with developing customer targeting ...

All JobsOil Rig JobsAssistant Oil Rig JobsAssistant Oil Rig Jobs in Bakersfield, CA

Assistant Oil Rig information

See Bakersfield, CA salary details

$10

$29

$80

How much do assistant oil rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant oil rig in Bakersfield, CA is $29.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.82 and $29.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant oil rig?

Assistant Oil Rig jobs involve supporting the daily operations on an oil rig, providing assistance to senior crew members, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and helping maintain equipment. These roles are essential for the smooth running of drilling and extraction processes, as assistants often handle tasks such as transporting tools, cleaning work areas, and monitoring machinery. The position typically requires physical stamina, attention to detail, and the ability to work in challenging, sometimes hazardous, offshore environments. Assistant Oil Rig workers often work long shifts and may live on the rig for extended periods. Entry-level positions may not require extensive experience, but some technical or mechanical skills are beneficial.

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

Assistant Oil Rigs often face challenges such as adapting to long shifts, working in remote locations, and maintaining safety standards in a physically demanding environment. Effective time management, staying alert, and following established safety protocols are essential for handling these challenges. Building strong communication skills and collaborating closely with crew members can also help in problem-solving and ensuring smooth operations on the rig. Continuous training and a proactive approach to safety help Assistant Oil Rigs thrive in this dynamic role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant oil rig and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Oil Rig Worker, you need physical stamina, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with safety training often required. Familiarity with rig equipment, safety protocols, and certifications like H2S or Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET) are typically used. Strong teamwork, communication, and adaptability are soft skills that help you excel in this demanding environment. These skills ensure efficient operations, minimize risks, and promote safety on the rig.

What is the difference between Assistant Oil Rig vs Roustabout?

AspectAssistant Oil RigRoustabout
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certificationsHigh school diploma, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentOffshore oil rigs, physically demandingOffshore oil rigs, physically demanding
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with equipment, safety checksMaintenance, cleaning, equipment handling
Industry UsageCommon entry-level role in oil extractionEntry-level position, often overlapping with assistant roles

Both Assistant Oil Rigs and Roustabouts work in offshore environments, performing physically demanding tasks. While assistants often support technical operations and safety procedures, roustabouts focus on maintenance and general labor. The roles are similar in credentials and work environment, with slight differences in specific duties.

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

To become an assistant on an oil rig with no experience, start by obtaining relevant certifications such as Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET) and gaining basic safety knowledge. Entry-level positions often require physical fitness and a willingness to learn, and applying through offshore staffing agencies or directly to oil companies can improve your chances. Gaining related skills in safety procedures, teamwork, and physical endurance can also help you qualify for these roles.

How easy is it to get hired at an assistant oil rig?

Getting hired as an assistant on an oil rig typically requires relevant safety certifications, such as Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET), and some prior experience or technical skills. The hiring process can be competitive, with employers often seeking candidates who demonstrate physical fitness, reliability, and the ability to work in challenging environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Oil Rig jobs in Bakersfield, CA?

The most popular types of Oil Rig jobs in Bakersfield, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Oil Rig jobs in Bakersfield, CA?

For Assistant Oil Rig jobs in Bakersfield, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assistant Oil Rig jobs in Bakersfield, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Oil Rig jobs in Bakersfield, CA are:

What cities near Bakersfield, CA are hiring for Assistant Oil Rig jobs?

Cities near Bakersfield, CA with the most Assistant Oil Rig job openings:

Assistant Oil Rig jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Oil Rig job openings in Bakersfield, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,547 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

USC - WE ARE HIRING! Drilling | California Region | Driller, Assistant Driller, Derrickhand, Moto...

ensignenergy

Bakersfield, CA

$37.80/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

USC – WE ARE HIRING! Drilling | California Region | Driller, Assistant Driller, Derrickhand, Motorhand, and Floorhand

Job Summary

The Drilling Team (USC) Driller, Assistant Driller, Derrickhand, Motorhand, and Floorhand performs the duties of general manual labor on the rig and supports and assists other members of the drilling crew during all rig operations. 

  • Drilling – Floorhand (USC) Bakersfield, California $27.00 an hour
  • Drilling – Motorhand (USC) Bakersfield, California $28.08 an hour
  • Drilling – Derrickhand (USC) Bakersfield, California $31.86 an hour
  • Drilling – Assistant Driller (USC) Bakersfield, California $32.94 an hour
  • Drilling - Driller (USC) Bakersfield, California $37.80 an hour

 Specific Responsibilities and Accountabilities

  • Works in a safe, healthy, and environmentally protective manner
  • Operates tongs, picks up/lays down pipe and latches tubing in elevators
  • Manages tools on the work floor
  • Operates the mud pump
  • Nipples up/down BOP
  • Tallys the stands (pipe)
  • Assists in daily maintenance and housekeeping
  • Reports and corrects any unsafe work practices and safety hazards
  • Participates in all safety programs, processes and requirements
  • Attends Operations Training up to two times per year and up to five days per training at designated locations
  • Performs other duties as directed by management

Technical Competencies

  • Understands and is capable of reading all safety / training requirements and materials
  • Develops an understanding of all major rig components and the necessary servicing

Behavioral Competencies

  • Works in a manner that insures personal safety and the safety of fellow crewmembers
  • Maintains a professional, effective, and polite relationship with other Ensign employees and suppliers
  • Strives continuously to develop a greater knowledge of the total operations, including the duties and responsibilities of each position
  • Works well as a team player and demonstrates willingness to share knowledge to advance knowledge and skills of others
  • Respects chain of command and follows thru on instructions

Education and Experience

  • Prior experience in oil field, heavy industry or construction is beneficial
  • High School diploma or GED is preferred

Qualifications

  • The employee must:
    • Be at least 18 years of age
    • Pass a post-offer physical examination, fitness testing, safety aptitude test, drug tests & background check
    • Provide proof of and maintain proper legal authorization to work in the United States
    • Arrange for reliable transportation to and from work and training locations
    • Speak and read English well enough  to understand verbal and written safety postings, alerts and announcements, communicate with co-workers and be able to participate in job safety analysis meetings

Other Accountabilities

  • Business Ethics – Understands fully Ensign’s ethics policy and its application in all business dealings including contractual agreements and contract negotiations
  • Business Policies - Understands and agrees to follow all of Ensign’s Policy and Directives and procedures as set forth in the Ensign Company Policy and Basic Directives Handbook for Employees
  • Certifications – Maintains technical and safety certifications required by company or government agencies; remains current on all OSHA, EUSD and other required training
  • Drug-free workplace - Conforms to a drug-free workplace, not be under the influence of mind-altering prescription or non-prescription drugs, including alcohol and other drugs of abuse.

Occupational Health and Safety – Understands fully the Ensign Health and Safety policy and self-responsibility for own health and safety at work; Demonstrates responsibility to avoid adversely affecting the health and safety of others through any act or omission

  • Uses the correct protective clothing and equipment as provided by Ensign and guards against misuse or damage to such equipment
  • Reports any hazardous situations arising in the workplace that cannot be self-corrected, or injury incurred during the course of work, no matter how minor
  • Avoids injury resulting from manual handling tasks, by use of risk assessment, correct mechanical handling equipment and correct manual handling techniques

 Ensign United States Drilling Inc. is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer.  Ensign provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.  Ensign takes affirmative action to employ, advance in employment and otherwise treat qualified individuals without discrimination as required by law.

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