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Drill Rig Jobs in Lafayette, LA (NOW HIRING)

... the drill rig equipment2. Responsible for loading and unloading drilling equipment in and out of the company vehicles and trailers3. Drives company vehicle to and from work sites4. On time and ...

Driller Assistant

Lafayette, LA · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

... drill rig equipment 2. Responsible for loading and unloading drilling equipment in and out of the company vehicles and trailers 3. Drives company vehicle to and from work sites 4. On time and ...

Driller Assistant

Lafayette, LA · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

... drill rig equipment 2. Responsible for loading and unloading drilling equipment in and out of the company vehicles and trailers 3. Drives company vehicle to and from work sites 4. On time and ...

Driller Assistant

Lafayette, LA · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

... drill rig equipment 2. Responsible for loading and unloading drilling equipment in and out of the company vehicles and trailers 3. Drives company vehicle to and from work sites 4. On time and ...

RIG CLERK

Lafayette, LA

$12 - $14.75/hr

RIG CLERK EPS is seeking Experienced Rig Clerks for P amp;A work in the Gulf of Mexico. PRIMARY ... Forward, handle or screen as required. • Complete, fax and file morning and drilling reports ...

Drill Rig information

See Lafayette, LA salary details

$12

$26

$49

How much do drill rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for drill rig in Lafayette, LA is $26.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $29.62 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 job categories do people searching Drill Rig jobs in Lafayette, LA look for?

The top searched job categories for Drill Rig jobs in Lafayette, LA are:

What cities near Lafayette, LA are hiring for Drill Rig jobs?

Cities near Lafayette, LA with the most Drill Rig job openings:

Infographic showing various Drill Rig job openings in Lafayette, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,310 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Driller Assistant

Lafayette, LA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Thompson Engineering is looking for a Driller Assistant, willing to travel. The Driller Assistant is responsible for assisting the Driller, other Driller Assistants, Soil Technicians and Project Engineers with the daily functions of geotechnical (with occasional environmental) drilling operations for both onshore and offshore project assignments.Essential Functions of the Position1. Perform variety of drilling duties handling drill rods, wrenches and other tools behind the drill rig equipment2. Responsible for loading and unloading drilling equipment in and out of the company vehicles and trailers3. Drives company vehicle to and from work sites4. On time and consistent attendance5. Picks up sacks filled with mud and empties the mud into the mixer container6. Monitors the fluid properties of the drilling fluids (mud)7. Equipment repairs and maintenance in the field and at shopOther Responsibilities1. Follow safety procedures2. Follow quality procedures3. Other duties as requiredMinimum Requirements1. High School diploma or equivalent2. Must be able to follow verbal and written instructions3. Valid Driver's License required4. Commercial Driver's License (CDL) preferred 5. Mechanical aptitude; past experience with working with mechanical systems of some type6. Past experience with working with hydraulic systems of some type preferred7. Ability to work on both onshore and offshore project assignments for extended periods of time as may be required for the projectsPhysical Requirements1. Ability to work in the field or outside 12 months of the year up to 100% of scheduled work hours2. Required to be standing or walking for up to 12 hours per work day and walk on uneven/unstable surfaces, concrete, grass, dirt, gravel3. Must be able to bend, stoop and climb4. Must be able to communicate verbally5. Required to be able to lift up to 100 lb. sacks of materials6. Ability to manipulate with hands to screw and unscrew equipment, operate tools and machinery7. Ability to travel and stay overnight on out of town assignments, and work flexible schedules including overtime based on the drilling work loadAbout Thompson EngineeringFounded in 1953, Thompson Engineering provides quality assurance and professional services for construction projects supporting industrial, infrastructure, and community development. Our services include drilling, materials testing, construction inspection, chemistry laboratory services, engineering design, environmental assessments, surveying, geotechnical studies, and construction management. Today, Thompson Engineering is recognized for leadership on projects that define skylines, coastlines, and transportation networks across the Southeast. From project planning and design through construction and completion, we deliver innovative solutions to complex infrastructure and building challenges for industrial, commercial, transportation, federal, and municipal clients.Equal Employment Opportunity EmployerWe are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.