1

Drill Rig Operator Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

The Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) Field Engineer will be responsible for setting up and operating the MPD equipment at the rig site and providing engineering support with guidance from the MPD ...

Managed Pressure Drilling Field Engineer The Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) Field Engineer will be responsible for setting up and operating the MPD equipment at the rig site and providing ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Drill Rig Operator information

See Alaska salary details

$14

$29

$55

How much do drill rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 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:
Equipment Operator Drilling Support - (CDL Required) - O&M Independent

Equipment Operator Drilling Support - (CDL Required) - O&M Independent

ASRC

Prudhoe Bay, AK • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Arctic Slope Regional Corporation rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 75 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

ABOUT ASRC ENERGY: WINNER OF THE BEST PLACE TO WORK BY ALASKA BUSINESS MAGAZINE IN 2023, 2024 & 2025

ASRC Energy Services, LLC is part of the Alaska Native corporation, Arctic Slope Regional Corporation (ASRC) family of companies. ASRC is a private, for-profit corporation that is owned by and represents the business interests of its approximately 14,000 Inupiaq shareholders. As the largest Alaskan-owned company employing over 15,000 people worldwide, ASRC and its subsidiaries are poised for the next era of growth with continued dedication to providing maximum benefit to our shareholders.

We're proud to be recognized as a Best Place to Work by Alaska Business Magazine in 2023, 2024, and 2025, a Most Loved Workplace by Best Practices Institute, and a Best Company to Work For in Alaska by MSN Money, 24/7 Wall St., and Zippia. We've also earned multiple ConocoPhillips Supplier Recognition Awards for Focus on Execution.

JOB SUMMARY

The Equipment Operator - Drilling Support position reports directly to the drilling support leads and foreman. The Operator is responsible for performing daily walk-around inspection of equipment, load inspections, properly securing equipment weighing up to 125,00 pounds, and driving on ice roads during winter months.

Candidate must have knowledge of and experience with: drilling support operations, oil and gas field operations, construction projects, and environmental compliance with waste management.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

  • Monitor equipment operation and identify malfunctions
  • Prepare and maintain inventory of supplies and equipment
  • Clean, store and maintain equipment as required
  • Erecting, deconstructing, installing signage, PM's, dewatering, building and maintenance of temporary drill cuttings pits
  • Rig move pre and post drill site preparation
  • Loader support during rig moves and spuds
  • Well guard installation and well house ladder removal during rig moves
  • Operating Super Suckers and Vacuum trucks for dewatering operations
  • Operating 90bbl Vac Truck for sump cleanout and used oil disposal from rig
  • Haul drill cuttings to all disposal facilities
  • Gamma -Jet operations for Vacuum Truck, Tanks, disposal facilities etc.
  • Operate Super Sucker, Vac Truck and all other equipment for rig support operations
  • Assist drilling materials coordinator with casing work
  • Second person on fluid transfer
  • Must be able to interpret load charts and determine load capacities for different tractor-trailer configurations.
  • Inspect all load-securing devices.
  • Other duties may be assigned as business needs require, including roustabout duties.
  • Other duties as assigned
  • Comply with Company and customer policies and procedures
  • Support AES zero-incident safety culture and assume personal accountability and responsibility for safe work practices in all projects, activities, and operations.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE

  • High school diploma or GED equivalent is required.
  • One to three (1-3) years training and related experience required.
  • North Slope Training Cooperative (NSTC) safety training certification.
  • Valid Class A commercial driver's license (CDLA) with tanker endorsement required.
  • Current US DOT Medical Card required.
  • Must take and pass an AES written and practical equipment certification test on all equipment.

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE

  • Hazmat endorsement preferred.
  • Three (3) years experience operating vacuum trucks, tanker trucks and tractor-trailers preferred.
  • Previous experience operating heavy equipment in the Oil & Gas industry preferred.
  • Previous experience working in the arctic environment preferred.  
  • Previous experience operating skid steers, front-end loaders and man lifts preferred.

If you are an ASRC Shareholder looking for exciting training opportunities within ASRC Energy, Click here to learn more about the Nutaaq program.

TOTAL REWARDS

ASRC Energy Services, LLC is proud to offer a competitive benefits package aligned with our core ASPIRE values. Our total rewards program is designed to attract and retain top talent while supporting the health, well-being, and professional growth of employees and their families.

We provide comprehensive medical coverage through the Federal Employee Health Benefits Plan (FEHB), as well as dental and vision insurance. Employees are eligible to participate in a 401(k) program with a company match of up to 4% and immediate vesting after just two pay periods. To further support employees and their households, we offer access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), along with a wide range of supplemental insurance options including voluntary life insurance, short- and long-term disability, accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D), pet insurance, legal services, identity theft protection, hospital indemnity, accident insurance, and critical illness coverage.

We are also committed to professional development by providing tuition reimbursement opportunities and internal learning resources through our ASPIRE Academy.

To learn more about our full suite of benefits, please visit our benefits page.

WHY WORK WITH US

At ASRC Energy, people come first. We collaborate, value every contribution, and invest in the success of our employees, families, and communities. If you're looking for meaningful work with a company that values safety, integrity, and growth, start your career with ASRC Energy and ASPIRE with us.

Absolute Integrity: We do the right thing because it's the right thing to do.

Safety: Safety is our foundation - we bring it everywhere we go.

People First: We take care of our people, and our people will take care of the business.

Inupiat Heritage: We believe in "one crew, one journey" and honor the values of our founders as we develop the future.

Resilient Family: We encourage the right balance and cultivate strong relationships with our clients and colleagues.

Exceptional Service Quality: We deliver excellence by focusing on client needs and continuously improving our performance.

WORKING ON THE NORTH SLOPE

While working on the North Slope of Alaska, your lodging and food will be provided to you.  All camps provide warm meals and options to grab a quick lunch or snack from the spike rooms. Rooms vary from single status to shared rooms where your roommate may work the opposite shift.  Wi-Fi and Internet is free and available within the camp.  Services vary depending upon where you are staying; however, most facilities offer housekeeping, self-serve laundry, commissary, mail, gyms, TV/Theater Room, etc.  Each facility will have its own accommodation and policies that will be reviewed upon on-site orientation.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

The physical demands and work environment requirements outlined below are representative of those necessary to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. A post-offer, pre-hire Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) will be conducted to ensure an employee's ability to safely meet job standards. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions. Candidates must be able to comply with the ASRC Energy Driving Records and Motor Vehicle Use Policy, successfully pass a pre-employment drug test which may include both urinalysis and hair testing, and meet the physical requirements of working in a remote location under arctic conditions. In addition, candidates will be required to pass a Fit-for-Duty Exam, complete a background check, and obtain and maintain an access badge for the work location. The availability of this position is contingent upon the Company's continued operational needs once training is completed.

If you need assistance or reasonable accommodation to apply for this position, please contact the ASRC Energy Human Resources Team at (907) 334-1688.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY POLICY STATEMENT

We comply with the terms of Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Act (VEVRAA). All decisions pertaining to employment, upgrading, promotion, demotion, transfer, recruitment advertising, recruitment selection, layoff, terminations, training, compensation, benefits, and educational assistance will be executed without regard to race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, marital status, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, parenthood, medical condition, disability, status as a protected veteran, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, genetic information, or any other basis or characteristics prohibited by applicable law.

For more information please visit: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal & Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision

NOTE TO ALL CURRENT EMPLOYEES

It is recommended that all current employees inform their managers when they apply for new positions as leadership will be notified of current employees applying for posted positions.


What Arctic Slope Regional Corporation employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom