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Drill Rig Operator Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

Driller

Canonsburg, PA · On-site

$21.25 - $28.75/hr

Minimum of 3 years of construction experience, 2 years of which must have been as a drill rig or crane equipment operator. Crane Operators must provide current certifications. Knowledge and Abilities:

Certified Drill Rig Operator-NCCCO Boom Certification preferred - maintain active accredited certification for equipment type (e.g. NCCCO, NCCER, CIC) preferred. * Class A CDL License required.

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 ...

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Perform drilling services and well installations by operating equipment and using conventional ... Inspects rig and associated equipment daily to ensure safe and proper working conditions * Engages ...

Flowback Operator I

Towanda, PA

$16 - $21/hr

A Flowback Operator (FBO) is primarily responsible for location setup, drill-out, frac watch ... Learn to rig-up, operate, and troubleshoot multi-well ESD systems. * Learn the testing practices ...

Heat Treat Operator I

Irvine, PA · On-site

$14 - $18.25/hr

Operate vertical and horizontal heat treat furnaces, ability to rig and fixture products for heat ... drilling machines, operate gas cutting torches and heat stability machines. * Operate overhead ...

Heat Treat Operator I

Irvine, PA · On-site

$14 - $18.25/hr

Operate vertical and horizontal heat treat furnaces, ability to rig and fixture products for heat ... drilling machines, operate gas cutting torches and heat stability machines. * Operate overhead ...

Heat Treat Operator I

Corry, PA · On-site

$14.75 - $19.25/hr

Operate vertical and horizontal heat treat furnaces, ability to rig and fixture products for heat ... drilling machines, operate gas cutting torches and heat stability machines. * Operate overhead ...

Heat Treat Operator I

Corry, PA · On-site

$15 - $19.50/hr

Operate vertical and horizontal heat treat furnaces, ability to rig and fixture products for heat ... drilling machines, operate gas cutting torches and heat stability machines. * Operate overhead ...

$14.75 - $19.25/hr

Operate vertical and horizontal heat treat furnaces, ability to rig and fixture products for heat ... drilling machines, operate gas cutting torches and heat stability machines. * Operate overhead ...

Showing results 41-60

Drill Rig Operator information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$13

$27

$51

How much do drill rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for drill rig operator in Pennsylvania is $27.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.96 and $31.11 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.

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 on operating drilling equipment. Many employers require certification in safety procedures and sometimes a commercial driver's license (CDL) if driving is involved. Hands-on experience and knowledge of machinery are also important for this role.

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.

How do I become a drill rig operator?

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

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.

What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Drill Rig Operator jobs? Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Drill Rig Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Drill Rig Operator job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,056 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

$21.25 - $28.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Since 1955, Nicholson Construction Company has been setting the industry standard for performance and technical innovation in geotechnical construction. We have built our reputation by performing the highest quality work and providing the most innovative solutions on the widest range of demanding and high profile projects. Nicholson is part of a global network of unparalleled geotechnical resources and expertise, specializing in deep foundations, earth retention, ground treatment and ground improvement.

Summary:

  • Operates Nicholson owned or rented equipment to perform geotechnical work, while meeting all Nicholson and OSHA standards.

Description:

  • Able to direct the operation of the crew assigned to his equipment
  • Ensures that all Nicholson and OSHA safety regulations are followed and enforced; responsible for safety on site
  • Ensures that all Nicholson quality standards are met
  • Responsible for the maintenance and documentation of the equipment operated
  • Informs Superintendent or site mechanic of malfunctioning equipment or equipment related problems
  • Attends safety meetings
  • Responsible for maintaining daily drill logs and equipment inspection forms
  • Ensures that the work performed is built to the plans, specifications and the level of quality expected of Nicholson

Qualifications & Requirements:

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Ability to thoroughly follow directions given by supervisors to complete assigned tasks
  • Ability to work as part of a crew
  • Ability to focus on daily and weekly goals for the project
  • Knowledge of applicable OSHA and Nicholson safety rules
  • OSHA 10-hour Training Certification
  • Forklift and Crane Certifications
  • First Aid/CPR Training

Experience:

  • Minimum of 3 years of construction experience, 2 years of which must have been as a drill rig or crane equipment operator. Crane Operators must provide current certifications.

Knowledge and Abilities:

  • Proven ability to operate construction equipment
  • Thorough understanding of different drilling and excavating techniques utilized by Nicholson
  • Understands equipment operating systems and instrumentation (mechanical and hydraulic)

Physical Requirements:

  • Reaching high and low, stooping, and bending continually
  • Lifting/carrying/moving up to 100 pounds continually
  • Able to travel per the Nicholson travel policy
  • Requires a high degree of concentration in a busy and noisy construction environment
  • Requires working in all types of weather

Mental Requirements:

  • Converse effectively using both verbal and written communication.
  • Make decisions and assume accountability
  • Concentrate on tasks
  • Demonstrate ability to manage stress and emotions as related to the workplace
  • Attention to detail
  • Identify and resolve conflict
  • Assess safety and risk

Benefits:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Short Term Disability
  • Long Term Disability
  • Accidental Death and Dismemberment
  • Life Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Maternal and Paternal Leave
  • 401(k) matching
  • Safe Harbor Retirement Plan
  • Paid Vacation

Nicholson Construction participates in E-Verify.

In an effort to foster a diverse workforce Nicholson Construction encourages applications from minorities, veterans, women and individuals with disabilities. EOE AA M/F/Vet/Disability

If you want to view the EEO is the Law poster, please choose your language: English – Spanish – Arabic - Chinese