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Drill Rig Operator Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

For Boom Crane CDL Driver positions - a Certified Drill Rig Operator-NCCCO Boom Certification preferred - maintain active accredited certification for equipment type (e.g. NCCCO, NCCER, CIC ...

For Boom Crane CDL Driver positions - a Certified Drill Rig Operator-NCCCO Boom Certification preferred - maintain active accredited certification for equipment type (e.g. NCCCO, NCCER, CIC ...

For Boom Crane CDL Driver positions - a Certified Drill Rig Operator-NCCCO Boom Certification preferred - maintain active accredited certification for equipment type (e.g. NCCCO, NCCER, CIC ...

For Boom Crane CDL Driver positions - a Certified Drill Rig Operator-NCCCO Boom Certification preferred - maintain active accredited certification for equipment type (e.g. NCCCO, NCCER, CIC ...

HDD Locator

Conway, AR

$21.25 - $26.25/hr

Operating electronic bore tracking systems to monitor drill head position, depth, pitch, and roll ... Regular exposure to HDD rig operations, underground utilities, traffic, and construction site ...

HDD Locator

Conway, AR · On-site

$21.25 - $26.25/hr

Operating electronic bore tracking systems to monitor drill head position, depth, pitch, and roll ... Regular exposure to HDD rig operations, underground utilities, traffic, and construction site ...

HDD Locator

Conway, AR · On-site

$21.25 - $26.25/hr

Operating electronic bore tracking systems to monitor drill head position, depth, pitch, and roll ... Regular exposure to HDD rig operations, underground utilities, traffic, and construction site ...

Drill Rig Operator information

See Arkansas salary details

$10

$23

$42

How much do drill rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for drill rig operator in Arkansas is $23.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $25.62 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 Arkansas? For Drill Rig Operator jobs in Arkansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drill Rig Operator jobs in Arkansas look for? The top searched job categories for Drill Rig Operator jobs in Arkansas are:
Bore Rig Operator

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

For over seven decades investor-owned utilities, municipalities, cooperatives, and others have entrusted their electrical construction and maintenance needs to Davis H. Elliot Company, Inc. (Elliot).

Elliot is a full-service electrical contractor specializing in overhead and underground distribution, transmission, substations, lighting, traffic signaling, utility locating and industrial/commercial services.

Job Description

The Bore Rig Operator requires experience with directional drilling or locating equipment on a drill rig for longer than six months, operating excavating equipment, drilling various types of soil - including rock, handling various types of pipe and PVC, and maintaining customer standards for installation no matter the circumstances. The Bore Rig Operator will also be expected to hand dig in various situations - including across located utilities, in highly congested areas, or in areas where equipment cannot access. They will also need to have knowledge of using a Vactron, and mixing bore mud products, or be willing to learn.

Qualifications

  • Experience with directional bore rigs and locating
  • Ability to effectively lead a crew
  • Willing to travel when necessary
  • Must have, or be eligible to obtain, a Class A CDL

Benefits/Culture

Today, we are listed among Engineering News-Records Top 150 Specialty Contracting firms. Our success is based on our customers' confidence in us; the loyalty, hard work and performance of our people; and the traditions with which Mr. Davis H. Elliot began the company in 1946. We understand that having the best team requires people being treated like family. Some of the benefits we offer our team includes:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
  • Short-Term Disability and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance w/ additional Voluntary Life Insurance
  • 401K w/ company match
  • Employee Stock Ownership Program
  • State and Federally accredited Lineman Apprenticeship program 
  • Paid Vacation 
  • Servant Leadership Training
  • Uniforms and PPE provided