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Drill Rig Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Dyno Nobel

Driller / Drill Operator

Corona, CA · On-site

$19/hr

... rig and drill truck including cleaning, maintenance, and repairs. Train with trainer to operate drills. Other duties include, but are not limited to: * Ensure compliance with applicable Company HSE ...

Maxsim Traffic Logistics

Bore Rig Operator

Acampo, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Pre-drilling duties * Site preparation : Before drilling, the operator is responsible for positioning the rig and associated equipment, such as mud pumps and generators, at the correct location. In ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member IV

Lodi, CA · On-site

$24.50 - $33.25/hr

Operate a geotechnical drill rig to advance boreholes to all depths required in their region. * Lead a 2 or 3 man drill crew and support their development in all tasks associated with drilling ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member II

Lodi, CA · On-site

$24.48 - $34.38/hr

Operate a geotechnical drill rig to advance shallow boreholes in soil. * Oversee a 2-man drill crew in all tasks associated with drilling operations. * Install instrumentation and monitoring wells.

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member III

Lodi, CA

$24.50 - $33.25/hr

Operate a geotechnical drill rig to advance boreholes to all depths required in their region. * Oversee a 2 or 3 man drill crew in all tasks associated with drilling operations. * Be proficient in ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member IV

Lodi, CA · On-site

$33 - $46.20/hr

Operate a geotechnical drill rig to advance boreholes to all depths required in their region. * Lead a 2 or 3 man drill crew and support their development in all tasks associated with drilling ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member V

Lodi, CA

$24.50 - $33.25/hr

Operate a geotechnical drill rig to advance boreholes to all depths required in their region. * Lead and focus on the training and development a 2 or 3 man drill crew in all tasks associated with ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member II

Lodi, CA

$24.50 - $33.25/hr

Operate a geotechnical drill rig to advance shallow boreholes in soil. * Oversee a 2-man drill crew in all tasks associated with drilling operations. * Install instrumentation and monitoring wells.

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member III

Lodi, CA · On-site

$27.78 - $38.78/hr

Operate a geotechnical drill rig to advance boreholes to all depths required in their region. * Oversee a 2 or 3 man drill crew in all tasks associated with drilling operations. * Be proficient in ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member V

Lodi, CA · On-site

$34.10 - $53.08/hr

Operate a geotechnical drill rig to advance boreholes to all depths required in their region. * Lead and focus on the training and development a 2 or 3 man drill crew in all tasks associated with ...

Schnabel

Geotechnical Driller

Walnut Creek, CA

$63.46 - $70/hr

Current certification for vertical and/or tieback drill rig or willing to obtain certification. * Focus, stand, walk, kneel, climb, bend, and work from heights or within confined space during ...

Schnabel

Geotechnical Driller

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$63.46 - $70/hr

Current certification for vertical and/or tieback drill rig or willing to obtain certification. * Focus, stand, walk, kneel, climb, bend, and work from heights or within confined space during ...

Schnabel

Geotechnical Driller

Walnut Creek, CA

Current certification for vertical and/or tieback drill rig or willing to obtain certification. * Focus, stand, walk, kneel, climb, bend, and work from heights or within confined space during ...

Noble Drilling Services Inc.

Flag Crane Operator during lifts, install tag lines to prevent accidents, interferences and/or damage. Assist in maintaining the general appearance of the drilling rig. Maintain the paint locker neat ...

Rain For Rent

Rig Team Lead

Modesto, CA

$25 - $31/hr

The Rig Team Lead will assist with the installation, maintenance, and operation of drilling equipment used for water wells, irrigation systems, and agriculturally based rig activities. Lay out ...

Rain for Rent

Rig Team Lead

Woodland, CA · On-site

$25 - $31/hr

The Rig Team Lead will assist with the installation, maintenance, and operation of drilling equipment used for water wells, irrigation systems, and agriculturally based rig activities. Lay out ...

Rain For Rent

Rig Team Lead

Stockton, CA

$25 - $31/hr

The Rig Team Lead will assist with the installation, maintenance, and operation of drilling equipment used for water wells, irrigation systems, and agriculturally based rig activities. Lay out ...

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All JobsDrill Rig JobsDrill Rig Jobs in California

Drill Rig information

See California salary details

$13

$27

$50

How much do drill rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for drill rig 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 are the typical challenges faced by a drill rig operator and how can they be managed effectively?

Drill rig operators often encounter challenges such as working in extreme weather conditions, managing equipment malfunctions, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols. Effective communication with team members and regular preventive maintenance are crucial to minimize downtime and operational hazards. Operators also need to stay updated on the latest industry practices and safety standards to ensure efficient and safe drilling operations.

What is a drill rig?

A drill rig is a machine used to create holes in the ground, typically for the purposes of extracting natural resources such as oil, gas, or minerals, or for construction and engineering projects. Drill rigs come in various sizes and types, ranging from small, portable rigs to large, complex structures used for deep drilling operations. They can be operated on land or offshore and are an essential part of the drilling industry. The main components of a drill rig include the derrick or mast, drill string, power systems, and circulation systems. Proper operation and maintenance of drill rigs are critical for safety and efficiency on drilling sites.

What is the difference between Drill Rig vs Drilling Operator?

AspectDrill RigDrilling Operator
Primary RoleEquipment used to perform drilling operationsOperates and maintains the drill rig during drilling
CredentialsTypically no specific certification; technical training requiredRequires certifications like Well Control or OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, oil & gas fields, mining locationsOn-site with drill rig, often in remote locations
Industry UsageUsed across oil & gas, mining, constructionCommonly employed in oil & gas, mineral exploration

The Drill Rig is the equipment used to perform drilling tasks, while the Drilling Operator is the skilled worker who operates and manages the drill rig during operations. Both roles are essential in drilling projects, with the rig serving as the tool and the operator as the skilled technician ensuring safe and efficient drilling.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A drill rig operator can earn around $4,000 per week with experience and proper certification, especially in high-demand industries like oil and gas or construction. These roles often require physical stamina, technical skills, and knowledge of safety protocols but typically do not require a college degree.

Can you make 200k in the oil field?

Drill rig workers can potentially earn $200,000 annually, especially with experience, overtime, and specialized skills such as well control or supervisory roles. High-paying positions often require certifications, physical stamina, and the ability to work long shifts in challenging environments.

How to get hired on a drilling rig?

To get hired as a drill rig worker, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant safety certifications such as OSHA, and physical fitness for demanding work environments. Experience in construction, oil and gas industries, or operating heavy equipment can improve job prospects, and many employers provide on-the-job training for new hires.

How much do drilling rigs pay?

Drilling rig operators and workers typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certification levels. Skilled workers with specialized tools or certifications can earn higher wages, especially in remote or high-demand areas.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drill Rig Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drill Rig Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, understanding of drilling techniques, and often a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional vocational training preferred. Familiarity with drilling machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications such as OSHA or MSHA are typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to work well under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient drilling operations and help prevent costly errors or accidents on site.
What are popular job titles related to Drill Rig jobs in California? For Drill Rig jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drill Rig jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Drill Rig jobs in California are:
Drill Rig jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drill Rig job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,158 per year, or $27.5 per hour.
Driller / Drill Operator

Driller / Drill Operator

Dyno Nobel

Corona, CA • On-site

$19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Dyno Nobel rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

The pay for this role is $19+ an hour DOE

What We Offer:

  • 3 weeks vacation + 12 paid holidays + PTO days
  • Full health benefits including employer HSA contributions + dental plan with an orthodontic option, wellness coaching available
  • Up to a 4% 401k match PLUS additional company contribution from 1% to 5% based on years of service
  • Generous tuition reimbursement program
  • Generous paid parental leave
  • Friendly and supportive coworkers

Who We Are

Dyno Nobel is a global leader in commercial explosives, manufacturing and blasting technology, delivering innovative solutions to the mining, quarry, construction, and seismic industries. With a legacy of safety, performance, and technical excellence, Dyno Nobel is known for pushing the boundaries of what's possible in commercial explosives-helping customers optimize operations, improve productivity, and reduce environmental impact. Backed by a team of dedicated professionals and a commitment to continuous improvement, Dyno Nobel sets the standard for reliable and responsible blasting manufacturing and services worldwide.

What You'll Do

As a Driller / Drill Operator, you will operate applicable drill equipment in a safe, reliable, timely and professional manner. Assist the operator in the safe operation of the drill rig and drill truck including cleaning, maintenance, and repairs. Train with trainer to operate drills. Other duties include, but are not limited to: 

  • Ensure compliance with applicable Company HSE Performance Standards, MSHA, Cal OSHA, as well as applicable acts and regulations
  • Knowledge and compliance to the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP's) to maintain safe working conditions on and near the drill site to assure that all drill crew members and others follow all safety and regulatory procedures.
  • Prepare and maintain all records and reports concerning drilling activities, including safety, in order to assure accurate billing, regulatory compliance and performance history.
  • Comply with mandates in support of the implementation of all policies improving the quality of drilling services and limiting liability exposure related to drilling activities.
  • Maintain safe working conditions and assure that all crew members and others on the site follow all safety and regulatory procedures and practices to ensure a safe and successful event.
  • Ability to work accurately with numbers and perform simple mathematical calculations.
  • Maintain Drills and Drill trucks. Ensure they are equipped with all supplies needed.

What We're Looking For:

  • Mechanical, drilling, and/or related industry work experience
  • Thorough knowledge of drilling techniques and industry standards/practices
  • Ability to read, write, and speak English and to communicate in writing and verbally. Spanish is a plus.
  • Must be willing to undergo and pass an ATF background check as required to be a possessor of explosives.
  • Must be 21 years of age or older

Zero Harm for Everyone Everywhere

Value People - Respect, Recognize & Reward

Think Customer. Everyone. Every day

Treat the Business as our Own

Care for the Community & our Environment

Challenge & Improve the Status Quo

Deliver on our Promises

Dyno Nobel is an equal employment opportunity employer and will give all qualified applicants consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, disability status, protected veteran status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by law.

*Dyno Nobel does not accept unsolicited agency resumes without prior contract agreements for specified role. Agencies should not forward resumes to our jobs alias, Dyno Nobel employees or any other organization location. Dyno Nobel is not responsible for any agency fees related to unsolicited resumes.*

Employment Type: Full time

What Dyno Nobel employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Dyno Nobel logo

About Dyno Nobel

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Dyno Nobel is a global leader in the commercial explosives industry, and you can be a part of something big!

Industry

Coal, metals and minerals mining

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Salt Lake City, UT, US

Year founded

1865

Social media

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