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Drill Rig Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Drill Rig Operator

New York, NY · On-site

$76.98K - $112.52K/yr

Drill Rig Operator - Exempt (GSD) Applicants may include a resume in addition to the required City employment application. To identify the most qualified individuals, the selection process may ...

Laborer/Drill Rig Helper

Oxford, CT · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Work as part of a 2-man crew to assist the Drill Rig Operator with Test Borings, Micro piles, and or Helical pile installations. * 95% of work is outdoors, is physically demanding, and you'll need to ...

Work as part of a 2-man crew to assist the Drill Rig Operator with Test Borings, Micro piles, and or Helical pile installations. * 95% of work is outdoors, is physically demanding, and you'll need to ...

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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 May 29, 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 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 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.

More about Drill Rig jobs
What cities are hiring for Drill Rig jobs? Cities with the most Drill Rig job openings:
What states have the most Drill Rig jobs? States with the most job openings for Drill Rig jobs include:
Infographic showing various Drill Rig job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,917 per year, or $27.8 per hour.
Drill Rig Operator (MVO)

$36.49/hr

Other

Posted 2 hours ago


Job description

This is a public notice flyer to notify interested applicants of anticipated vacancies. Applications will NOT be accepted through this flyer. Interested applicants should review the "How to Apply" section of this flyer for more information on how to be considered. This flyer will be used as positions become available. There may or may not be actual vacancies filled from this flyer.Qualifications:Who May Apply: US Citizens
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
There is no specific length of training or experience required. However, you must be able to demonstrate, through experience shown in your written application materials that you possess the sufficient knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the work of this position without more than normal supervision.
Minimum Qualifications: Ability to do the work of a Drill Rig Operator (MVO) without more than normal supervision. Abilities include (1) Selecting and installing appropriate equipment, devices, and tools required to carry out work assignments (e.g., pumps, derricks, mechanical riggings, downhole hammers); (2) Applying knowledge of most types of conventional core boring drill rigs and auxiliary equipment and knowledge of the drill-ability of hard rock and sediments to perform the full range of standard foundation core drilling and noncore boring operations; and (3) Directing a crew of one or two lower grade workers in the gathering and transporting of equipment, parts, and supplies to drill sites; in the construction of temporary roads; in leveling drill sites; and rigging up and aligning equipment and tools. Failure to meet this Screen Out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
PHYSICAL EFFORT: Require standing for prolonged periods, walking, pushing, pulling, reaching, and lifting. Require physical exertion to operate drill rig controls, levers, pedals, etc., and involves a high degree of reflex action in responding to rapid drilling changes. Move objects weighing 100 lbs., and occasionally up to 200 lbs. Lifting is heavy and stressful. May be assisted by others, as needed, when moving heavy objects and equipment.
WORKING CONDITIONS: Work outside in all types of weather, frequently in wet, muddy, very cold or hot, and dirty conditions, exposed to poison growth, reptiles, and insects and under noisy conditions. May perform drilling operations over water. The employee may be exposed to a variety of health and safety hazards requiring the use of protective equipment and clothing such as respirators, safety glasses, shoes, hats, body suits and harnesses. The employee may carry/wear equipment (i.e., air tanks, drill samples, etc.) up to 50 lbs. in weight.Education:Employment Type: OTHER

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About Army Corps of Engineers

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Industry

National security, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US