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Drilling Hand Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Rig Hand

Midland, TX

Rig Hand As a Rig Hand in the Upstream Oil and Gas industry, you will be an essential part of our drilling operations team, responsible for various tasks that contribute to the safe and efficient ...

Resource International, Inc

Drilling Crew

Columbus, OH · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

Operate hand tools, power tools, and support equipment. * Drive company pickup trucks and tow ... Experience in construction, drilling, landscaping, utility work, farming, trucking, military ...

Hydro Resources Holding

Rig Hand

Las Cruces, NM · On-site

Rig Hand Summary Part of the crew responsible for the maintenance and day to day operation of the ... Performs general maintenance of drilling and associated equipment. * Loads and off-loads pipe and ...

Hydro Resources Holdings

Rig Hand

Las Cruces, NM · On-site

Rig Hand Part of the crew responsible for the maintenance and day to day operation of the rig ... Performs general maintenance of drilling and associated equipment. * Loads and off-loads pipe and ...

Timberline Drilling

Driller's Assistant

Elko, NV

$90K/yr

Thank you for your interest in working with Timberline Drilling! We are looking for motivated and ... Safely use hand and power tools. * Vehicle and Equipment Operation: Operate water trucks, tractors ...

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Drilling Hand information

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$20

$41

$69

How much do drilling hand jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling hand 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 difference between Drilling Hand vs Drilling Operator?

AspectDrilling HandDrilling Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certificationsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentOn-site at drilling rigs, physically demandingOperates drilling equipment, monitors operations
Industry UsageCommonly employed in oil & gas, miningUsed in oil & gas, energy sectors
Job FocusAssists with drilling tasks, manual laborControls and manages drilling machinery

The main difference is that a Drilling Hand primarily assists with manual tasks and supports the drilling process, while a Drilling Operator actively controls and manages the drilling equipment. Both roles are essential in drilling operations, but the Drilling Operator typically requires additional technical training and responsibilities.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Drilling Hand on a rig site?

A Drilling Hand is responsible for assisting with the setup, operation, and maintenance of drilling equipment on an oil or gas rig. Daily tasks include handling drill pipes, operating hoists, monitoring drilling fluid levels, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. Drilling Hands work closely with other crew members such as drillers, roughnecks, and toolpushers to maintain efficient operations and address any mechanical issues that arise. The role often involves physically demanding work and long shifts, typically in a team-oriented environment.

What are Drilling Hands?

Drilling Hands are entry-level workers on oil and gas drilling rigs who assist with the day-to-day operations of drilling wells. Their responsibilities include handling tools, operating equipment, maintaining safety standards, and supporting more experienced crew members. Drilling Hands are essential to the smooth functioning of the rig, performing physically demanding tasks and ensuring the drilling process runs efficiently. This position is a starting point for many who wish to advance in the oil and gas industry.

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

To thrive as a Drilling Hand, you need a solid understanding of drilling operations, mechanical aptitude, and physical stamina, typically gained through on-the-job training or vocational programs. Familiarity with drilling rigs, power tools, safety protocols, and industry certifications like H2S or Well Control are commonly required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication help distinguish high-performing Drilling Hands. These skills are vital for ensuring operational efficiency, workplace safety, and successful collaboration on drilling sites.
More about Drilling Hand jobs
What cities are hiring for Drilling Hand jobs? Cities with the most Drilling Hand job openings:
What states have the most Drilling Hand jobs? States with the most job openings for Drilling Hand jobs include:
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Drilling Hand jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drilling Hand job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,248 per year, or $41.5 per hour.
Water Well Driller Assistant

Water Well Driller Assistant

BALLARD WATER WELL CO LLC

Conroe, TX • On-site

$17 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Ballard Water Well Company is a 40+ year old water well drilling & service company serving Houston and surrounding areas. Located in Willis, Tx. We are seeking bright, self driven individuals willing to collaborate with team members to install and repair water well systems. No previous water well experience is required. You will be safety trained and field trained to perform the necessary duties to assist the team.

We Offer:

Competitive Pay!

Annual Raises!

Family Friendly Environment!

Effective Communication!

Fair respectful work conditions!

Responsibilities

  • Laborer position, water well driller apprentice/roughneck/water well drilling hand, will be required to back up trailers

Qualifications

  • Valid Driver License
  • Moderate lifting minimum of 50lbs
  • 1+ years of Water Well Drilling experience (is preferred not required)

​Benefits

  • Medical Insurance
  • Competitive compensation based on experience
  • Certain Certifications, CDL, and Previous Safety Training will result in higher pay

We are a Proud Texas Water Well Company.

Company Description

As Texas’ top-rated water well company, we combine craftsmanship, innovation, and integrity to keep communities supplied with the water they depend on. You’ll work with advanced equipment, learn from experienced pros, and be part of a team that values hard work, safety, and growth. Whether you’re in the field or the shop, your work makes a real difference every day.