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Drilling Contractor Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Drilling Supervisor

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Competitive salary commensurate with experience Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance ... Contractors with high quality and cost efficient engineering services. Our projects range in size ...

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Drilling Contractor Salary information

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$20

$41

$69

How much do drilling contractor salary jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling contractor salary in the United States is $41.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.38 and $44.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the average salary of a drilling contractor?

The average salary of a drilling contractor can vary widely depending on factors such as location, experience, the type of drilling (oil, gas, water, etc.), and the size of the contracting company. In the United States, drilling contractors typically earn between $60,000 and $120,000 per year, with senior professionals or those working offshore potentially earning even more due to hazard pay and overtime. Benefits, bonuses, and company profit-sharing can also significantly impact total compensation.

What are common challenges faced by drilling contractors in managing project timelines and safety standards?

Drilling contractors often work under tight project deadlines while adhering to strict safety protocols. Balancing the pressure to deliver results quickly with the need to maintain a safe working environment can be challenging, especially in unpredictable conditions such as weather changes or equipment malfunctions. Effective communication and coordination with site managers, engineers, and crew members are essential to navigate these challenges. Additionally, staying up-to-date with industry regulations and best practices helps contractors minimize risks and ensure project success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drilling contractor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drilling Contractor, you need expertise in drilling operations, safety regulations, and project management, often supported by a degree in engineering or relevant field experience. Familiarity with drilling rigs, hydraulic systems, and industry-standard safety certifications like IWCF or Well Control are typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help manage teams and address challenges on-site. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective drilling operations in complex environments.

What is the difference between Drilling Contractor Salary vs Drilling Supervisor Salary?

AspectDrilling Contractor SalaryDrilling Supervisor Salary
Average Annual Salary$80,000 - $150,000$90,000 - $160,000
Required CredentialsRelevant certifications, experience in drilling operationsSame as Drilling Contractor, plus supervisory experience
Work EnvironmentOn-site at drilling locations, project managementOn-site and office-based, overseeing drilling teams
Industry UsageContract-based roles, project-specificManagement roles within drilling projects

While both roles involve extensive knowledge of drilling operations, Drilling Contractors focus on executing drilling projects, often working as independent contractors or companies. Drilling Supervisors oversee drilling teams and ensure safety and efficiency, typically holding more managerial responsibilities. Salaries overlap but can vary based on experience and project scope.

More about Drilling Contractor Salary jobs

What cities are hiring for Drilling Contractor Salary jobs?

Cities with the most Drilling Contractor Salary job openings:

What states have the most Drilling Contractor Salary jobs?

States with the most job openings for Drilling Contractor Salary jobs include:

Infographic showing various Drilling Contractor Salary job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,248 per year, or $41.5 per hour.

Driller's Assistant

Geocentric Drilling Inc

West Sacramento, CA • On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k) matching
  • Competitive salary
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Training & development
  • Vision insurance

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About Geocentric Drilling, Inc.
Geocentric Drilling, Inc. is a California-based drilling contractor providing reliable, safety-focused drilling services for geotechnical, environmental, and construction-related projects. We pride ourselves on professionalism, teamwork, and getting the job done right.
Position Summary
Geocentric Drilling, Inc. is seeking a motivated and dependable Driller’s Assistant to support drilling operations in the Sacramento region. This is a hands-on position ideal for individuals who enjoy physical outdoor work, learning skilled trades, and working as part of a close-knit crew. No prior drilling experience is required — we are willing to train the right candidate.
Key Responsibilities
.
· Assist the driller with daily drilling operations
· Load, unload, and maintain drilling equipment and tools
· Handle drill rods, casing, augers, and related materials safely
· Perform routine cleaning and basic maintenance of equipment
· Collect and label soil or material samples as directed
· Follow all safety procedures and jobsite protocols
· Assist with mobilization and demobilization of drilling rigs
· Maintain a clean and organized jobsite
Qualifications:
 *  MUST HAVE A VALID CLASS A DRIVERS LICENSE WITH A CLEAN DRIVING RECORD
. 1-3 years field experience preferred
· Ability to perform physically demanding work in outdoor conditions
· Willingness to work variable hours and travel to job sites as needed
· Strong work ethic and positive attitude
· Ability to follow instructions and work as part of a team
· Construction, drilling, or mechanical experience is a plus but not required