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Drill Rig Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Drill Operator Travel: Regional, primarily VA sites Pay Range: $28.00/hr- $38.00/hr (Based on ... Supervise drill rig helpers * Responsible for safety policies and required to wear PPE Job Benefits:

Drill Operator Travel: Regional, primarily VA sites Pay Range: $28.00/hr- $38.00/hr (Based on ... Supervise drill rig helpers * Responsible for safety policies and required to wear PPE Job Benefits:

Drill Operator Travel: Regional, primarily VA sites Pay Range: $28.00/hr- $38.00/hr (Based on ... Supervise drill rig helpers * Responsible for safety policies and required to wear PPE Job Benefits:

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Drill Rig Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$27

$51

How much do drill rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for drill rig operator in Virginia is $27.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.72 and $30.72 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.

Is it hard to get hired at an oil rig?

Getting hired as a drill rig operator can be competitive and typically requires relevant experience, technical skills, and safety certifications. Employers often look for physical fitness, the ability to work in challenging environments, and familiarity with drilling equipment. Having a valid driver's license and willingness to work long shifts or in remote locations can also improve chances of employment.

What is the highest paid oil rig job?

The highest paid oil rig jobs are typically specialized roles such as drilling engineers, toolpushers, or offshore installation managers, who oversee drilling operations and safety. These positions often require extensive experience, technical skills, and certifications, and can earn six-figure salaries due to the demanding environment and responsibility involved.

Do drillers make a lot of money?

Drill rig operators typically earn a competitive salary that varies by experience, location, and industry sector. Entry-level positions may start lower, but experienced drillers with specialized skills and certifications can earn higher wages, often supplemented by overtime and benefits. Overall, the job can be financially rewarding compared to many other trades, especially in industries like oil and gas or construction.

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.

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.

Is drilling a good career?

Drill rig operators work in the construction, mining, and energy industries, operating heavy equipment to drill holes for various purposes. The job often requires physical stamina, technical skills, and safety training, with opportunities for overtime and advancement. It can be a stable career with competitive wages, especially in regions with active resource extraction or infrastructure projects.
What are popular job titles related to Drill Rig Operator jobs in Virginia? For Drill Rig Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Drill Rig Operator job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,420 per year, or $27.6 per hour.

Gas Directional Drill Operator

MasTec Utility Services

Richmond, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Overview

Company Summary

MasTec Utility Services delivers critical infrastructure construction and engineering services for power delivery, gas, and water customers, specializing in overhead and underground electric distribution for power delivery systems, gas distribution construction for gas systems, and turnkey solutions for a variety of water, sewer, and civil infrastructure projects. Backed by the strength of decades of experience, unrivaled industry skills, and a deep commitment to core values, MUS delivers safe, innovative, and environmentally responsible services that provide extraordinary value to clients.

MasTec Utility Services is a purpose-driven company. Our core values guide our strategy, performance, and culture. We believe in maintaining an environment where team members can make an impact, grow, and thrive. A place where they find meaning and purpose in doing the important work of ensuring communities have the vital energy, light, and communications to prosper. Our culture is inclusive and welcoming. Our teams are empowered with abundant training, tools, and opportunities to follow their curiosity and ambitions. Everyone has an equal chance to advance. Everyone is supported, respected, and challenged to be their best. We’re always looking for talented and dedicated people to join us and love where they work.

MasTec Utility Services is a proud subsidiary of MasTec (NYSE: MTZ), a Fortune 500 Company ranked by Energy News-Record as one of the leading contractors in the country. MUS is part of the MasTec Power Delivery segment. We are certified as a minority-controlled company by the National Minority Suppliers Development Council (NMSDC). Our rich diversity of people and ideas makes us a stronger, more innovative organization.

Job Summary

The Gas Directional Drill Operator is responsible for safely operating the directional drill or locating utilities for a gas drill crew to install and service mainline conduit via HDD then locate the drill head to understand elevation changes and make decisions on drilling depths to avoid hitting underground utilities. This position supports the Line team and works with personnel within the department. 


Responsibilities
  • Operate the drill rig efficiently.
  • Prepare job and drill so that the shot can be performed safely.
  • Pothole all utilities that will either be paralleled or crossed during the bore shot.
  • Verify existing utilities.
  • Fill water tanks with water.
  • Combine water with chemicals for boring according to the ground you are drilling in.
  • Locate the drill head from point A to point B without hitting any utilities at the correct depth.
  • Hook up swivel, reamer, and pipe product that will be pulled back to complete the bore shot.
  • Before the bore shot is started, walk out bore shot to ensure all utilities have been located and develop a plan for going above or below each utility or obstacle in the bore path.
  • Pull back the product with the correct hole opener and utilize the correct mud mixture to insure that the product makes it from point B to point A.
  • Inspect and maintain equipment.
  • Provide assistance and training to all drilling trainees.
  • Maintain and inspect rig regularly.
  • Implement best practices for utility verification.
  • Read blueprints and assist in preparing drill log records.

Qualifications

Minimum

  • High school diploma, or equivalent.
  • 1 years of related experience.
  • Operator Qualification before beginning work.
  • OSHA 10 Certification.
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential.
  • Ability to do some maintenance of drill equipment & mixing unit.
  • Ability to identify and distinguish colors of utility flags and markings on the ground.

Preferred

  • 2 or more years of experience.
  • CDL Class A license with tanker endorsement.
  • Experience operating Vermeer and/or Ditchwitch Directional Drills.
  • Experience locating with Subsite and/or Digitrack Locating Equipment.

Physical Demands and Work Environment 

This job operates in a field environment. This role routinely requires extended periods of bending, squatting, climbing, kneeling, pushing, pulling, lifting, lifting in awkward positions, standing, and twisting. Also, working in inclement weather conditions, such as extreme heat, extreme cold, rain, ice, snow, and wind.  

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. This position is physically active, with lifting required. Must be able to bend and lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Clarity of vision at 20 feet or more or 20 inches or less, with the ability to judge distance and space relationships. Precise hand-eye coordination. Ability to identify and distinguish colors. 

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. The Company reserves the right to revise or change the job duties as the need arises. Management reserves the right to change the description, duties, or work schedules to accommodate individuals with disabilities.  

Benefits available include Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability and Life insurance, a 401k plan and Employee Stock Purchase plan. MasTec is a publicly traded company MTZ (NYSE).

Equal Employment Opportunity: 

The Company’s policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, gender, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable law and EEOC regulations. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories.

Qualifications:

Minimum

  • High school diploma, or equivalent.
  • 1 years of related experience.
  • Operator Qualification before beginning work.
  • OSHA 10 Certification.
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential.
  • Ability to do some maintenance of drill equipment & mixing unit.
  • Ability to identify and distinguish colors of utility flags and markings on the ground.

Preferred

  • 2 or more years of experience.
  • CDL Class A license with tanker endorsement.
  • Experience operating Vermeer and/or Ditchwitch Directional Drills.
  • Experience locating with Subsite and/or Digitrack Locating Equipment.

Physical Demands and Work Environment 

This job operates in a field environment. This role routinely requires extended periods of bending, squatting, climbing, kneeling, pushing, pulling, lifting, lifting in awkward positions, standing, and twisting. Also, working in inclement weather conditions, such as extreme heat, extreme cold, rain, ice, snow, and wind.  

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. This position is physically active, with lifting required. Must be able to bend and lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Clarity of vision at 20 feet or more or 20 inches or less, with the ability to judge distance and space relationships. Precise hand-eye coordination. Ability to identify and distinguish colors. 

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. The Company reserves the right to revise or change the job duties as the need arises. Management reserves the right to change the description, duties, or work schedules to accommodate individuals with disabilities.  

Benefits available include Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability and Life insurance, a 401k plan and Employee Stock Purchase plan. MasTec is a publicly traded company MTZ (NYSE).

Equal Employment Opportunity: 

The Company’s policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, gender, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable law and EEOC regulations. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories.

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME