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Drill Rig Operator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Construction Resources Management

Driller

Racine, WI · On-site

This position involves lifting, operating and maintaining a drill rig and related drilling tools and equipment. A Driller requires a high attention to detail and safety/compliance standards. The ...

GESTRA Engineering, Inc.

Drilling Supervisor

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Equipment & Rig Access: Plan safe access routes, staging areas, and equipment rental logistics for ... Drill Crew Training: Provide trainingto drill helpers as well as drillers on logging, sampling, and ...

All JobsDrill Rig Operator JobsDrill Rig Operator Jobs in Wisconsin

Drill Rig Operator information

See Wisconsin salary details

$13

$28

$51

How much do drill rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for drill rig operator in Wisconsin is $28.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.11 and $31.30 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 Wisconsin?

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

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

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

Drill Rig Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drill Rig Operator job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,459 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Maxi Rig / Large Drill Rig Operator (Horizontal Directional Drilling)

InterCon Construction, Inc.

Madison, WI • On-site

$24.50 - $30.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

POSITION OVERVIEW
The HDD Operator is responsible for controlling the direction of an HDD rig utilizing tools and configurations designed to steer the drill head.
ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Implement all directional drilling plans and procedures according to company plan and oversee all drilling operations of rig site and ensure compliance to all drilling objectives.
  • Manage all well bore path and perform survey to compute and monitor all rate of penetration and maintain an efficient list of all directional tools and perform survey on all equipment.
  • Provide assistance and training to all drilling trainees and manage all marketing and sales activities for various company products and supervise efficient working of all processes.
  • Execute all survey information for processes and ensure all objectives compatibility with various results.
  • Administer all directional operations and analyze performance of all drilling procedures and assist all client representatives to resolve all issues and monitor job progress and maintain records of all data and prepare required documentation.
  • Maintain and ensure efficiency in maintenance of all company assets and locations and ensure adequacy of all supplies and equipment for website and prepare records for all equipment present on rig in coordination with client representatives.
  • Ensure safety in work areas at all times according to required standards and provide required training to all trainees and assess performance and administer all drilling rig operations.
  • Collaborate with various departments to manage work flows for all rig projects and ensure efficient working of same and prepare schedules for all test activities on drilling rig.
  • Prepare rig maintenance strategies and perform regular inspection on all drilling requirements and assist to purchase all equipment to ensure appropriate maintenance.
  • Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS
  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Previous experience with HDD operations, specifically running large drills.
  • Knowledge of different drilling contaminants, additives, and mud treatment
  • Possession of a valid driver's license with a good, clean driving record. CDL preferred.
  • Knowledge of methods, materials, and equipment used in the construction and maintenance of underground oil/gas transmission systems.
  • Fundamental understanding of safety regulations, OSHA regulations, first aid and methods of applying resuscitation.
  • Knowledge of local and state regulations, rules, specifications, and operating practices.
  • Ability to read and interpret plans and written instructions.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently as well as in a team-oriented environment.
  • Consistent travel required throughout United States.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT
Working outdoors in various weather conditions that are not deemed unworkable (i.e. negative degree weather, etc.).
InterCon Construction is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment on account of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, mental or physical disability, veteran status, or any other category protected by law.
Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

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