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Drill Rig Operator Helper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Operate a Soilmec drill rig. Supervise a crew of 2-4 employees. Train and mentor new employees ... Drill rig operating experience and good working knowledge of the drill rig and the drilling process.

Bore Rig Operator

Acampo, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Pre-drilling dutiesSite preparation: Before drilling, the operator is responsible for positioning the rig and associated equipment, such as mud pumps and generators, at the correct location. In ...

... rig operators. Responsibilities include training, mentoring and developing employees; planning ... Mix or oversee the mixing of drilling fluid, cement and chemicals. * Operate and/or oversee the ...

Reverse Rig Operator

Fenton, MO · On-site

$68K - $87K/yr

Our client is looking for a Reverse Rig Operator to support their efforts in drilling and ... Drill potable water wells in unconsolidated formations using reverse rotary drilling methods ...

... rig operators. Responsibilities include training, mentoring and developing employees; planning ... Mix or oversee the mixing of drilling fluid, cement and chemicals. * Operate and/or oversee the ...

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Drill Rig Operator Helper information

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$11

$19

$28

How much do drill rig operator helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for drill rig operator helper in the United States is $19.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drill rig operator helper?

A Drill Rig Operator Helper is an entry-level worker who assists the main drill rig operator in setting up, operating, and maintaining drilling equipment. They help with tasks such as loading and unloading tools, handling drilling materials, keeping the work area clean, and ensuring safety procedures are followed. This role is essential for supporting efficient drilling operations in industries like construction, mining, and oil and gas. Drill Rig Operator Helpers also learn on the job, gaining experience that can lead to more advanced positions in drilling operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drill rig operator helper, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drill Rig Operator Helper, you need basic mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with drilling equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes OSHA certifications are commonly required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and good communication skills help you effectively support the drill operator and maintain a safe work environment. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring efficient drilling operations and minimizing workplace accidents.

What are some common challenges faced by drill rig operator helpers, and how can they be overcome?

Drill Rig Operator Helpers often encounter challenges such as working in harsh weather conditions, handling heavy equipment, and maintaining strict safety standards. Adaptability and physical endurance are essential, as the role may require long hours in remote locations. Effective communication with the drill rig team is crucial for smooth operations and preventing accidents. To overcome these challenges, it's important to stay up-to-date on safety protocols, use proper lifting techniques, and proactively address equipment maintenance issues.

What is the difference between Drill Rig Operator Helper vs Drilling Rig Operator?

AspectDrill Rig Operator HelperDrilling Rig Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, safety certificationsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, possibly additional technical training
Work EnvironmentAssists on drilling sites, outdoor, physically demandingOperates drilling equipment, outdoor, physically demanding
Employer & IndustryOil & gas, mining, constructionOil & gas, mining, construction

The main difference is that the Drill Rig Operator Helper assists with tasks under supervision, focusing on support roles, while the Drilling Rig Operator is responsible for operating and managing the drilling equipment independently. Both roles require safety certifications and work in similar outdoor environments, but the operator has more technical responsibilities and autonomy.

How to become a drill rig operator helper?

To become a drill rig operator helper, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should gain experience working in construction or drilling environments. On-the-job training is common, and familiarity with tools and safety procedures is important; some employers may require certifications such as OSHA safety training.

What cities are hiring for Drill Rig Operator Helper jobs?

Cities with the most Drill Rig Operator Helper job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Drill Rig Operator jobs?

The most popular types of Drill Rig Operator jobs are:

What states have the most Drill Rig Operator Helper jobs?

States with the most job openings for Drill Rig Operator Helper jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Drill Rig Operator Helper jobs?

For Drill Rig Operator Helper jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Drill Rig Operator Helper job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,414 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

LFG Drilling Rig Operator

Richfield, OH • On-site

Tetra Tech
Civil Engineering Construction • 10K+ employees

$75/day

Per diem

Re-posted 2 days ago


Tetra Tech rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

405th of 454 rated engineering


Job description

The Opportunity:

Tetra Tech is adding a Drilling Rig Operator to our Landfill Gas Drilling team.  

Why Tetra Tech:

At Tetra Tech, we are Leading with Science to solve the world's most complex challenges.  Our industry-leading experts in engineering and consulting are committed to driving positive change in communities around the world.  For over 50 years, we have been at the forefront of innovation and sustainability.  Today we stand as a market leader, offering cutting-edge solutions in water, environment, energy, and international development.  Our work has improved more than 625 million lives around the world.

Your Impact:

Join Tetra Tech to make a real difference.  Our work leverages cutting-edge technologies, advanced analytics, and the expertise of world-class scientists and engineers to create meaningful change around the world. Discover your full potential - join us to advance your career while leaving a lasting legacy.

Position Summary:

Our Landfill Gas Drilling division offers a unique work environment that specializes in a wide variety of projects where we are drilling for natural gas on landfills, installing new wells to collect the gas, fusing and welding HDPE pipe, and assemble PVC/CPVC casing.

    Be punctual on all days work is assigned.
    Drilling and completion on construction of new gas well to design specifications.
    $75/day per diem for meals and incidentals.  
    Stay in company provided lodging.

Essential Job Functions:

    Understand environmental and health and safety regulations and perform work in a competent manner in accordance with the regulations.
    Operate a Soilmec drill rig.
    Supervise a crew of 2-4 employees.
    Train and mentor new employees.
    Perform system construction activities in a safely and proper manner.
    Repair and maintain vehicles and equipment as required by following basic inspection procedures.
    Perform maintenance on system components to ensure or restore proper operation and compliance.
    Work with and around heavy construction equipment and excavations on landfills (all Equipment Operators are expected to be experienced, safe, and efficient operators of heavy construction equipment).
    Maintain, clean, and organize equipment and supplies.
    Complete project related paperwork neatly, timely, and accurately including but not limited to timesheets, dallies, expense reports, etc.
    Provide an aggressive and proactive approach to client needs.
    Effectively communicate with clients and peers.
    Perform additional duties as required.
 

Required Qualifications:

    Drill rig operating experience and good working knowledge of the drill rig and the drilling process.  Preferably Soilmec.
    Good working knowledge of heavy construction equipment (excavators, dozers, road trucks), survey equipment, pipe fusion equipment & techniques, compacting and materials handling equipment. 
    Diagnose, assess, and repair mechanical failure in a broad range of drill rigs, vehicles, and auxiliary equipment.
    HDPE Pipe fusion fitting experience.
    Familiar with or able to become familiar with general landfill gas and leachate collection system, construction techniques and components.

Preferred Qualifications:

    Landfill or refuse collection experience.
    Proficient in the use of the PC, specifically with the Microsoft Office suite of products (Word, Excel, and Outlook).

Physical Requirements:

    Lift a minimum of 50 pounds on a non-consistent basis.
    Climb, bend, and stand for extended periods of time.
    Walk long distances, up and down steeply sloped landfills (1:1, 2:1, and 3:1) and outdoor terrain.
    Frequently lift or carry containers, poly pipe, carry loose materials to truck.

Work Environment / Environmental Factors:

    Work in variable conditions including extreme (hot and cold) weather safely.

Additional Information:

    Travel for extended periods, as necessary, up to 6 weeks (80% of the year away from home).  Typically, on rotation every 5-6 weeks.
    Must be available to work overtime, nights, weekends, and holidays when necessary.
    A background investigation if required.  Please note that this investigation requires your consent and cooperation.
    This offer is also contingent on valid proof of completed OSHA 10 Hour Construction certificate as defined by Tetra Tech.

Life at Tetra Tech:

The perks of working at Tetra Tech include:


    Comprehensive and market-competitive benefits. https://www.tetratech.com/careers/life-at-tetra-tech/.
    Merit-based financial rewards.
    Flexibility and company-wide commitment to work/life balance.
    Collaborative team atmosphere that values the contributions of all employees.
    Learning and development opportunities for ongoing professional growth.  

Compensation:

Pay commensurate with experience.

A pre-employment drug screen in compliance with federal regulations is required, along with a physical if needed.

At Tetra Tech, health and safety play a vital role in our success. Tetra Tech's employees work together to comply with all applicable health & safety practices and protocols, including public health orders and regulations that are mandated by local, state, provincial, federal, international authorities, and clients.

About Tetra Tech:

Tetra Tech is the leader in water, environment, and sustainable infrastructure, providing high-end consulting and engineering services for projects worldwide. With 30,000 employees working together, Tetra Tech provides clear solutions to complex problems by Leading with Science to address the entire water cycle, protect and restore the environment, design sustainable and resilient infrastructure, and support the clean energy transition.


Tetra Tech is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, marital or familial status, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. Tetra Tech is a VEVRAA federal contractor and we request priority referral of veterans.

We invite applications from all interested parties.

Explore our open positions at https://www.tetratech.com/careers. Follow us on social media to learn more about our people, culture, and opportunities:

LinkedIn: @TetraTechCareers
X (Twitter): @TetraTechJobs
 

Additional Information
  • Organization: 106 ECI

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About Tetra Tech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Tetra Tech combines the resources of a global, multibillion-dollar company with local, client-focused delivery in more than 450 locations around the world. Our reputation rests on the technical expertise and dedication of our employees-21,000 associates working together to provide smart, scalable solutions for challenging projects. We are proud to be home to leading technical experts in water, environment, infrastructure, resource management, energy, and international development.

Industry

Civil engineering construction and environmental consulting services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Pasadena, CA, US