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Drill Rig Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Berkel & Company Contractors Inc

Be Seen First

Drill Rig Operator

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

Berkel & Company is seeking an experienced drill rig operator that has a working knowledge of common drilling practices (duplex, air/fluid flushing, and auger). The driller will need to be ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member II

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$22.75 - $31/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

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$30.25 - $42.25/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 III

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$22.75 - $31/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 II

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$26.75 - $37.50/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 II

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$22.75 - $31/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 II

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$22.75 - $31/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.

Network Connex

HDD Operator

Manassas, VA · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Experience * 1-2 years of experience operating Ditch Witch AT40 drill rig * Experience with Ditch Witch, Vermeer, or similar directional drilling equipment preferred. Skills & Competencies * Strong ...

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All JobsDrill Rig JobsDrill Rig Jobs in Washington

Drill Rig information

See Washington salary details

$14

$31

$58

How much do drill rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for drill rig in Washington is $31.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.70 and $35.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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, 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 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 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.

How to get a job on a drill rig?

To get a job on a drill rig, candidates typically need relevant experience in construction, mining, or oil and gas industries, along with safety certifications such as OSHA or MSHA. Physical fitness, the ability to work in challenging environments, and familiarity with drilling equipment are also important. Applying through staffing agencies, job boards, or directly to companies operating drill rigs can help secure employment.

What are popular job titles related to Drill Rig jobs in Washington?

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

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

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

Drill Rig jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drill Rig job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 8% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,597 per year, or $31.5 per hour.

Drill Rig Operator

Silver Spring, MD • On-site

Berkel & Company Contractors Inc
Construction • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Berkel & Company Contractors Incexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

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Job description

Position Summary:

Berkel & Company is seeking an experienced drill rig operator that has a working knowledge of common drilling practices (duplex, air/fluid flushing, and auger). The driller will need to be resourceful, mechanically inclined, and have the ability to meet critical job deadlines. Typically, the drilling position requires the candidate to think quickly on their feet and have a production-oriented mindset that does not compromise safety or quality. The driller should also have previous experience with grouted tieback installation, micro piles, and other sheeting and shoring methods. It would be an advantage to have experience and knowledge of testing anchors and/or piles.

Job Responsibilities:

· Maintaining drilling equipment and tooling.

· Filling out detailed daily rig reports.

· Ensuring proper drilling procedure is followed.

· Communicate issues, and problems, and successes on a daily basis.

· Signal equipment operators and safely move equipment through the jobsite.

· Overseeing safety of all personnel working around drill rig.

· Assist Superintendent with jobsite layout.

· Diagnosing mechanical and equipment related issues.

EOE/Minorities/Females/Veterans/Disability (Compliant with the new VEVRAA and Section 503 rules)

Requirements:

· High-school diploma/ GED.

· Valid Driver’s license.

· Experience running a hydraulic drill rig (e.g. Klemm, Comacchio).

· Preference given to those who can also operate a forklift, skid steer, mini excavator, and other earth moving equipment.

· Preferred experience with reading blue prints, site layout, anchor or pile testing, and soil/boring reports.

· Welding, torch cutting, and other metal working skills are a plus.

Typical Physical Demands:

Ability to stand, sit, crouch, lift, walk, and tolerate heights when required.

Able to lift heavy objects up to 80 lbs.

Working Conditions/ Environments:

Operate on a construction site where dust, noise, and rough terrain are prevalent.

Must be able to work in various weather conditions, during all seasons.

Travel required.