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Drill Rig Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Walsh Group

Drill Rig Operator

Asheville, NC · On-site

The Drill Operator will perform tasks involving operating a drilling machine at the site of work to construct, maintain, or repair highway, heavy civil, or building type structures; equipment ...

Tetra Tech, Inc.

LFG Drilling Rig Operator

Richfield, OH · On-site

$75/day

Required Qualifications: • Drill rig operating experience and good working knowledge of the drill rig and the drilling process. Preferably Soilmec. • Good working knowledge of heavy construction ...

The Walsh Group

Drill Rig Operator

Asheville, NC

The Drill Operator will perform tasks involving operating a drilling machine at the site of work to construct, maintain, or repair highway, heavy civil, or building type structures; equipment ...

Tetra Tech

LFG Drilling Rig Operator

Richfield, OH · On-site

$75/day

Operate a Soilmec drill rig. Supervise a crew of 2-4 employees. Train and mentor new employees. Perform system construction activities in a safely and proper manner. Repair and maintain vehicles and ...

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Drill Rig information

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$13

$27

$51

How much do drill rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for drill rig in the United States is $27.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $31.01 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 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.
More about Drill Rig jobs
What cities are hiring for Drill Rig jobs? Cities with the most Drill Rig job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Drill Rig jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Drill Rig jobs are:
Drill Rig jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drill Rig job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,917 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Southeast Caissons - Lead Drill Rig Operator

Southeast Caissons, LLC

Kernersville, NC • On-site

$27 - $42/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Lead Drill Rig Operator – Lead Strategic Drilled Shaft Installation Projects

Job Overview

  • Company: SOUTHEAST CAISSONS, LLC

  • Salary/Pay Rate: $27 to $42 per hour (Based on experience) plus Overtime and Performance Bonuses.

  • Location: Kernersville, NC (Travel Required).

  • Job/Employment Type: Full Time.

  • Project Scope: Commercial / Misc Specialized Trades.

  • Mandatory Licenses & Certifications: None Required.

The Opportunity

You will serve as a high-impact field leader, taking full ownership of complex drilled shaft installation projects from initial setup to final completion. This role offers the autonomy to manage day-to-day operations independently while driving the technical execution of specialized drilling work. You will join a team-oriented culture that prioritizes your professional growth and recognizes your dedication with long-term career stability.

How You Will Make an Impact

  • Operate advanced drill rigs to perform precise drilled shaft installations in strict accordance with project specifications.

  • Lead and mentor field crews to maintain high productivity, quality standards, and a culture of safety on every job site.

  • Interpret detailed project plans and technical drawings to execute complex drilling operations with minimal oversight.

  • Coordinate the procurement and delivery of concrete and critical materials to ensure uninterrupted project momentum.

  • Monitor daily job progress and adjust field tactics in real-time to maintain strict schedules and operational efficiency.

  • Enforce all company safety protocols and site policies to protect the well-being of your crew and the integrity of the project.

  • Act as the primary onsite representative, communicating effectively with management and project stakeholders to ensure transparency.

Required Qualifications & Experience

  • Proven experience as a Drill Rig Operator with a strong technical background in drilled shaft installation.

  • Demonstrated ability to lead and manage field crews in a fast-paced, specialized trade environment.

  • Proficiency in reading and interpreting project blueprints, specifications, and site layouts.

  • Willingness to travel up to 75% of the time to support regional project assignments.

  • Strong organizational skills necessary to manage material orders and daily site logistics independently.

Preferred Qualifications & Experience

  • 5 to 7+ years of leadership experience within the commercial drilling or caisson industry.

  • Advanced knowledge of specialized drilling techniques and diverse soil conditions.

  • History of completed safety training including OSHA, Fall Protection, and Lift certifications.

Compensation & Benefits

  • Weekly pay cycle with significant overtime potential and pay-per-performance bonuses.

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.

  • Paid time off including designated holidays, vacation days, and sick leave.

  • Company vehicle provided for business use and field leadership.

  • Paid training programs, including manufacturer-specific and apprenticeship opportunities.

  • All essential safety equipment provided, including helmets and protective gear.

About Us

SOUTHEAST CAISSONS, LLC is a leader in specialized commercial trades, offering a stable environment where hard work is met with genuine growth opportunities. We invest in our people through hands-on experience and a supportive culture that values individual contribution.

Learn more at https://southeastcaissons.com/...;

SOUTHEAST CAISSONS, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender expression, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or any other status protected by law or regulations. It is our intention that all qualified applicants be given equal opportunity and that selection decisions be based on job-related factors.

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