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Drill Rig Operator Jobs in New Mexico (NOW HIRING)

Water Well Driller

Santa Fe, NM · On-site

$55K - $100K/yr

Oahu and Kauai Pay: ($55,000 - $100,000 per year) based on experience Overview We are seeking a skilled and dedicated Drill Rig Operator to join our team in the water well industry located in Hawaii.

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 ...

SUMMARY The Lead Operator will be responsible for safely performing Wireline-related duties at the ... drilling, rig, or crane. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES * Job Preparation : Ensure job ...

SUMMARY The Lead Operator will be responsible for safely performing Wireline-related duties at the ... drilling, rig, or crane. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES * Job Preparation : Ensure job ...

$21.50 - $29.25/hr

Mobilize in setting up drill sites. * Properly manage and dispose of drilling fluids and waste ... Operate a core drilling rig 12-14 hours per day, working shifts where you will remain at the ...

Reverse Unit Operator I

Artesia, NM · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Operating the assigned rig, reverse unit, swivel, and other equipment in accordance with the ... Tracking and keeping up with pipe tally, drilling depths, and advise customer and rig crew with ...

Rig Welder

Carlsbad, NM · On-site

$230 - $460/wk

This position is primarily responsible for operating welding machines to join or connect various ... Knowledge of proper use of equipment such as welder torch, electrode holder; drill press, gas ...

This position is primarily responsible for operating welding machines to join or connect various ... Knowledge of proper use of equipment such as welder torch, electrode holder; drill press, gas ...

New

This position is primarily responsible for operating welding machines to join or connect various ... Knowledge of proper use of equipment such as welder torch, electrode holder; drill press, gas ...

New

... workover rig, drilling rig, or crane. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES * Planning and ... Maintain knowledge and understanding of current standards and operating procedures and practices to ...

... workover rig, drilling rig, or crane. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES * Planning and ... Maintain knowledge and understanding of current standards and operating procedures and practices to ...

... workover rig, drilling rig, or crane. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES * Planning and ... Maintain knowledge and understanding of current standards and operating procedures and practices to ...

... workover rig, drilling rig, or crane. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES * Planning and ... Maintain knowledge and understanding of current standards and operating procedures and practices to ...

Reverse Unit Supervisor

Hobbs, NM · On-site

$28.25 - $36.75/hr

Make safe and appropriate decisions while operating the reverse unit in a stand-alone capacity at ... Conduct safety meetings with rig crew ensuring work is done properly and safely * Coordinate and ...

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Drill Rig Operator information

See New Mexico salary details

$12

$26

$49

How much do drill rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for drill rig operator in New Mexico is $26.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.29 and $30.05 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 popular job titles related to Drill Rig Operator jobs in New Mexico?

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

What job categories do people searching Drill Rig Operator jobs in New Mexico look for?

The top searched job categories for Drill Rig Operator jobs in New Mexico are:

Infographic showing various Drill Rig Operator job openings in New Mexico as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,126 per year, or $27 per hour.

Drill Rig Operator

Las Cruces, NM • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

 
Drill Rig Operator 

Summary 

Driller for irrigation, commercial, industrial, and municipal water wells.


Responsibilities 

  • Responsible for the safe and accurate set up of rig and all equipment.
  • Operate drilling rig and associated equipment to drill commercial and industrial water wells, install well heads, well screen, casing, gravel pack and cement grout, and other well fixtures.
  • Document geological formations encountered.
  • Clean and disinfect water wells in preparation for use.
  • Perform routine mechanical maintenance work on drilling rig and equipment.
  • Maintenance of rigs.
  • Must report any and all unsafe conditions.
  • Expected to engage in the safety process and report to Supervisor any time a situation is deemed unsafe.
  • To support / encourage others to help develop a culture of continuous improvement.
  • Supervision and training of crews for underground projects.
  • Client contact on job sites.
  • Operation and maintenance of all pump division equipment, including video van, sonar jet operations, testing and testing equipment and cranes.


Requirements 

  • High school diploma or GED preferred.
  • Knowledge of types of casing.
  • Knowledge of drill string.
  • Knowledge of thread types.
  • Knowledge of working derricks and drill floor.
  • Ability to travel.
  • Requires willingness to work a flexible schedule.
  • Clean driving record.
  • CDL preferable.
  • Knowledge of Well Control systems and methods – current well control certification desired.


Benefits:  

  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible spending account
  • Medical insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Short Term Disability
  • Long Term Disability
  • Paid time off
  • Referral program

Equal Opportunity Employer Veterans/Disabled, E-Verify Employer

As part of the pre-employment hiring process at Hydro Resources Holding, Inc. and its subsidiaries, all candidates will be required to undergo background check and drug screening.

External Company URL: Hydro Resources | Groundwater Exploration and Production     (https://hydroresources.com/)