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Drill Rig Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Drill Rig Operator information

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$13

$27

$50

How much do drill rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for drill rig operator in California is $27.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.62 and $30.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drill rig operator?

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.

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drill rig operator?

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.

How do I become a drill rig operator?

To become a drill rig operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and 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.

What do you need to be a drill rig operator?

To become a drill rig operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with training in operating drilling equipment. Certification or licensing may be required depending on the industry and location, and physical stamina and safety awareness are important for working in demanding environments.

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

The most popular types of Drill Rig Operator jobs in California are:

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Drill Rig Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Drill Rig Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Drill Rig Operator job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, 44% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,158 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Plug & Abandonment Technician - Intervention Services & Drilling Tools

Santa Paula, CA • On-site

Weatherford International
Clean Energy Services • 10K+ employees

$25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Weatherford rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description


Job Summary
The Plug & Abandonment Technician role undertakes hands-on tasks and utilizes Weatherford's equipment, machinery and systems. The role applies techniques and practices to complete assignments using technical manuals, procedures and work instructions. While this is a generic job description covering all levels of the Field Operator position, all aspects of the roles and responsibilities are relevant. More senior roles may have leadership responsibilities at the rig site of other Field Operators.
Hourly Rate: $25/hour + field bonus eligible
Responsibilities
Performs duties according to documented Weatherford policies and complies with all Standard Operating Procedures and Work Place Practices
Participates in all daily operations & safety meetings, toolbox, Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) and reports any issues promptly using the appropriate tools
Maintains equipment, facilities and work area in a presentable and safe working condition
Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of all policies & procedures, related operational & non-operational documentation, support systems, complies with all Technical Work Instructions, carrying out work assignments to the highest quality level and within time constraints as required
Performs functional tests, inspection and monitoring of equipment with strict adherence to specific work instructions against their level of training & competence
Inspects used parts to determine changes in dimensional requirements, using rules, calipers, micrometers, or other measuring instruments
Follows maintenance processes & procedures to undertake the following; unloading, disassembly, cleaning, pressure testing, visual checking, assembly, loading, and storage of tools, completing all necessary documentation as required against their level of training & competence
Rigs up / down equipment with strict adherence to specific work instructions against their level of training & competence
Cleans, lubricates, repairs and operates equipment as per work instructions against their level of training & competence
Services and maintains mechanical, electronic and hydraulic components as per work instructions against their level of training & competence
Drives Vehicles such as Pickups, trucks and truck-mounted units to well sites
Maintains a satisfactory driving record In senior positions, the employee will often lead other field operators in undertaking all the assignments detailed above. This includes Planning and Coordination of jobs from beginning to end, operation of equipment, troubleshooting equipment issues, implementing corrective actions, and providing access to all related documented policies, procedures, work instructions, and technical manuals allowing the team to complete their work effectively and efficiently. They will provide leadership, act as a mentor and perform competency assessments for other co-workers.
Senior roles might lead the workshop, defining and distributing the work assignment schedules while evaluating the quality, proficiency, and efficiency of the work being carried out through performing regular inspections to ensure compliance with standard operating procedures
Performs other duties and activities safely as assigned by supervisor within physical constraints of the job
Skills/Education Required
1 - 2 ½ years of experience in the Oil & Gas industry.
High School Diploma
Basic Mathematics
Perform maintenance, repair, troubleshooting, and monitoring of equipment
Critical thinking, active learning & listening, complex problem solving
Good reading and writing skills, strong judgment and decision-making to be in line with policies & procedures
Time management
Quality Control Analysis to ensure the product meets required standards
Capable to meet the physical demands that the role requires
Information & task ordering & ability to identify when a problem may occur and, where possible, to understand the solution
Ability to react effectively and efficiently in operating tools and machinery
Ability to imagine how tools and products will look when preparing for assembly, repair, or modifications
Skills/Education Preferred
Basic Computer Skills
Travel Requirement
This role may require domestic and potentially international travel of up to 50-75%
About Us:
Weatherford is a leading global energy services company. Our world-class experts partner with customers to optimize their resources and realize the full potential of their assets. Across our operating locations, including manufacturing, research and development, service, and training facilities, operators choose us for strategic solutions that add efficiency, flexibility, and responsibility to any energy operation.
When you join Weatherford, you instantly feel connected to something bigger - a community that is grounded by our core values and driven to create innovative solutions for our customers. We celebrate each other's successes, grow together, and learn from each other constantly. Individually, we are impressive. Together, we are unstoppable. We are One Weatherford.
Weatherford is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.
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