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Drilling Hand Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Driller's Assistant

Kellogg, ID · On-site

$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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

... hand tools. * Welding Certifications: Preferred but not required. * Travel Flexibility: Must be ... At Chesapeake Drilling Corporate, we value hard work, dedication, and the drive to grow within the ...

Drilling Helper

Salisbury, MD · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

... hand tools. * Welding Certifications: Preferred but not required. * Travel Flexibility: Must be ... At Chesapeake Drilling Corporate, we value hard work, dedication, and the drive to grow within the ...

Harris Exploration, a division of Earth Drilling, is hiring Driller Helpers to support mineral ... Operate hand tools and assist with machinery under supervision. * Work in physically demanding ...

Rig Hand

Buda, TX · 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 ...

Rig Hand

Fort Lupton, CO · On-site

$17 - $26/hr

Rig Hand Summary Part of the crew responsible for the maintenance and day to day operation of the ... Knowledge of types of drill pipe and drill collars. * Knowledge of thread types and tubing sizes.

Harris Exploration, a division of Earth Drilling, is hiring Driller Helpers to support mineral ... Operate hand tools and assist with machinery under supervision. * Work in physically demanding ...

... hand tools. * Welding Certifications: Preferred but not required. * Travel Flexibility: Must be ... At Chesapeake Drilling Corporate, we value hard work, dedication, and the drive to grow within the ...

Driller Helper

ID · Remote

Harris Exploration, a division of Earth Drilling, is hiring Driller Helpers to support mineral ... Operate hand tools and assist with machinery under supervision. * Work in physically demanding ...

Rig Hand

Sunray, TX · 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 ...

Driller's Assistant

Elko, NV · On-site

$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 ...

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

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Drilling Hand information

See salary details

$20

$41

$69

How much do drilling hand jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 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 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.

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 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.

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:
Infographic showing various Drilling Hand job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,248 per year, or $41.5 per hour.

$90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Thank you for your interest in working with Timberline Drilling! We are looking for motivated and dedicated individuals to assist us in providing core drilling services for surface and underground mining operations nationwide, including Alaska. This is a great opportunity to start at an entry level position and earn $90,000+ in your first year!

If you apply to one of the open positions listed on our website, you will automatically be considered for any current openings at any of our locations. We value your interest and look forward to reviewing your application!

Job Requirements

  • Must be willing to work 12-hour shifts (day and night), up to 20 consecutive days followed by 10 days off (including weekends and holidays).
  • Must be willing to travel (including out of state) if no local work is available.
  • Your application will remain active for 60 days.

Job Duties

  • Assist Drill Operator: Support core drill operators in setting up and operating drilling equipment to obtain core samples.
  • Equipment Handling: Move drills, supplies, and equipment as needed.
  • Set Up Drills: Build drill decks and other structures.
  • Handle Materials: Move and carry steel drill rods, core tubes, and casing.
  • Sample Handling: Transfer core samples from core tubes to core boxes and accurately label them with area and depth details.
  • Mix Drill Mud: Prepare and maintain drilling mud as required.
  • Maintenance: Maintain, repair, and clean equipment to ensure proper functioning.
  • Work Area Safety: Keep work areas safe, clean, and free of obstacles.
  • Water Supply: Maintain water lines and supply pumps.
  • Tool Use: Safely use hand and power tools.
  • Vehicle and Equipment Operation: Operate water trucks, tractors, forklifts, and other equipment as needed.
  • Additional Duties: Perform other tasks as assigned to support drilling operations.

Requirements and Abilities

  • Ability to read, write, and communicate clearly with others.
  • Basic math skills (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division).
  • Ability to lift up to 100 lbs and carry up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to climb ladders and equipment.
  • Willingness to work 12-hour shifts (day and night) for up to 20 consecutive days.
  • Comfortable working in extreme weather conditions (hot, cold, and wet).
  • Must be willing to travel for multi-day assignments away from home.
  • Must be 18 years or older.
  • Must have a valid driver's license.
  • Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
  • Must be authorized to work in the United States.

Benefits

  • Competitive Pay (Based on Experience)
  • Overtime Opportunities
  • Production & Safety Bonus Program
  • Clear Career Advancement Paths
  • Paid Travel Expenses
  • Per Diem for Travel Away from Home
  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Company-Paid Life Insurance
  • 401(k) with Employer Match

Interested in joining our team? We'd love to hear from you! Please apply directly on our company website:
https://timberlinedrillinginc.bamboohr.com/careers