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Drill Rig Operator Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

Direct pad builders and equipment operators to maintain efficient pad sequencing. * Recommend ... Demonstrated drill rig management experience on remote, helicopter-supported exploration projects.

Driller

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$23.50 - $32/hr

Monitors all rig and subsurface conditions and reports any issues directly to the Rig Manager ... Supervises workers to ensure they are following the proper job procedures and equipment operating ...

Driller (Expression of Interest)

Prudhoe Bay, AK · On-site

$26 - $35.25/hr

... drill rig hoisting, rotary and pumping equipment used to drill gas and oil wells. Working as part ... Follow DDI and customer operating and reporting procedures * Perform other duties as assigned CORE ...

Must have a minimum of one year's experience on a diesel electric rotary drilling rig. One year operating hopper ad viscosity testing equipment. * Ability to obtain or currently hold North Slope ...

Must have a minimum of one year's experience on a diesel electric rotary drilling rig. One year operating hopper ad viscosity testing equipment. * Ability to obtain or currently hold North Slope ...

TRS Technician II

Kenai, AK

$37K - $37K/yr

... professionally operating casing running equipment at various rig/field sites, and providing ... Rig up, run, and rig down various components on a drilling rig. * Communicate clearly and ...

... operating procedures. * Assists in any internal audits as necessary. * Assists Driller in daily rig site duties. SUPERVISORY FUNCTIONS: This position has no supervisory functions. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS ...

... operating procedures. * Assists in any internal audits as necessary. * Assists Driller in daily rig site duties. SUPERVISORY FUNCTIONS: This position has no supervisory functions. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS ...

Pit Watcher

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$66K - $88K/yr

General upkeep of drilling rig mechanical equipment. * Handles equipment and pipe on rig floor ... Assists in development and implementation of standard operating procedures. * Assists in ...

TRS Technician II

Kenai, AK · On-site

$37K - $37K/yr

... professionally operating casing running equipment at various rig/field sites, and providing ... Rig up, run, and rig down various components on a drilling rig. * Communicate clearly and ...

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Drill Rig Operator information

See Alaska salary details

$14

$29

$55

How much do drill rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for drill rig operator in Alaska is $29.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.50 and $33.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Drill Rig Operator?

As a Drill Rig Operator, your daily responsibilities typically include setting up, operating, and maintaining drilling rigs, monitoring equipment performance, and adhering to strict safety protocols. You'll often work closely with a team of drillers, assistants, and engineers, collaborating to ensure precise drilling according to project specifications. Regular tasks may also involve equipment inspections, troubleshooting mechanical issues, and recording drilling data. The role requires adaptability, as you may work in varying weather conditions and different locations, depending on the project.

How to get hired on a drilling rig?

To get hired as a drill rig operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant experience, and often a certification such as Well Control or OSHA safety training. Employers look for physical fitness, mechanical skills, and the ability to work in challenging environments, with on-the-job training provided for specific equipment and safety procedures.

What is a Drill Rig Operator job?

A Drill Rig Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining drilling equipment to bore holes for various purposes, such as mining, construction, or oil and gas extraction. They set up, position, and control drilling rigs, monitor operations, and ensure safety protocols are followed. Operators must have technical knowledge of machinery, the ability to read blueprints, and an understanding of soil and rock formations. The role often requires physical endurance and adherence to strict safety regulations.

How much do oil rigs get paid?

Drill rig operators typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the rig. Overtime, certifications, and working in remote locations can increase earnings, with some experienced operators making over $120,000 per year.

How do I become a drill rig operator?

To become a drill rig operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with on-the-job training or an apprenticeship to learn operating procedures and safety protocols. Certification or licensing may be required depending on the region, and familiarity with machinery, tools, and safety standards is essential for the role.

How much does a drill rig operator earn?

A drill rig operator typically earns between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in heavy machinery may earn higher wages and additional benefits.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Drill Rig Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drill Rig Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and a solid understanding of drilling processes, often supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with heavy machinery, safety regulations such as OSHA, and certifications like a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and attention to detail are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies enable safe, efficient drilling operations and effective teamwork in demanding outdoor environments.

What are popular job titles related to Drill Rig Operator jobs in Alaska? For Drill Rig Operator jobs in Alaska, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Experienced Exploration Drill Assistant

ConeTec

Anchorage, AK • On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Company: Geotech Drilling
- A proud member of the ConeTec Group
Geotech Drilling Services
Company Background and Culture
Geotech Drilling is a dynamic international drilling company headquartered in British Columbia, Canada. Our strategy is to grow our company by developing our high-quality, advanced-stage project pipeline.
Geotech owns and operates state-of-the-art drilling equipment throughout western North America. We are one of Canada's largest geotechnical, environmental and exploration drilling companies, with a fleet of over 70 site investigation platforms.
Geotech Drilling has joined ConeTec. ConeTec is an international full-service geo-environmental and geotechnical site characterization contractor. We offer clients superior project management and site investigation services across the globe, with a large presence in the Americas and Australia. ConeTec is known in the industry as a great place to work. We commit to all employees that we will provide a respectful, positive, and enriching work environment. We want you to look forward to going to work every day. We reward and recognize staff for exceptional contributions to the company. Our success is a direct result of the people who work here.
As part of our integrated team, you'll harness the collective expertise, expanded resources, and cutting-edge testing capabilities that come with this exciting merger. Seize the opportunity to shape the future of drilling with us
Drill Assistant - Surface Exploration
We are seeking motivated and experienced Drill Assistants to support Surface Exploration Diamond Drilling operations for a remote camp project in Alaska. Candidates must have previous drill support experience, strong mechanical aptitude, and the ability to work safely and efficiently in rugged, remote environments. Familiarity with helicopter-supported drill moves is required.
Location: Remote Dry Camp, Alaska
Project and Equipment
  • Remote helicopter-supported drill program
  • Fly In-Fly Out
  • Hydracore 2000 diamond drills
  • Coring with HQ and NQ
  • Surface exploration

Start Date: June 2026
Duration: 5 Months
Hours of Work: 4 weeks on, 2 weeks off, 12 hr days.
Key Responsibilities
  • Continuously prepare and supply the driller with tooling and materials necessary to maintain the drilling operations.
  • Handle drill rods and casing, core tubes and core samples.
  • Maintain and organize appropriate inventory levels of necessary materials, supplies and tooling for the drill rig and support vehicles.
  • Assist the Driller, client and other team members where required.
  • Regular and repetitive lifts of 50-90 lbs.

Professional Experience / Qualifications
  • Must have 1 or more years experience in the drilling industry.
  • Proven experience in helicopter supported operations.
  • Must have a Valid Driver's License.
  • Have the mechanical ability to troubleshoot and repair small equipment.
  • Complete and pass a pre-employment drug & alcohol test.
  • Complete and pass project specific safety courses.
  • Have experience working in the field, in remote and/or varied weather conditions for extended periods of time

Compensation
$24.00 - $26.00 USD per hour + Meter Bonus
As part of our dedicated focus on the health and safety of all employees, and due to the requirement, that employees be able to safely complete the tasks associated with this job position, a successful candidate may be required to take a pre-employment fit for duty test, including a drug and alcohol testing, and complete a satisfactory criminal record check.
ConeTec is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status, or any other status protected by applicable law