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Drilling Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aerotek

Cnc Drilling Operator

Waterloo, NE · On-site

$28.13 - $29.41/hr

The drilling operator applies shop mathematics, interprets blueprints, and uses measuring instruments to set up and run equipment safely and efficiently, ensuring parts are produced to exact ...

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Drilling Operator information

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$13

$27

$51

How much do drilling operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling operator 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.

Is drilling good money?

Drilling operators typically earn competitive wages that can vary based on experience, location, and the complexity of the projects. They often receive additional compensation for overtime, hazardous conditions, and specialized skills such as operating heavy equipment or working in remote environments. Overall, the profession can offer solid earning potential within the oil, gas, or mineral extraction industries.

How much does a drill rig operator earn?

Drilling rig operators typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the drilling operations. Experienced operators with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages, and overtime or shift work may increase total compensation.

What type of drilling pays the most?

In the drilling industry, directional and offshore drilling operators tend to earn higher wages due to the specialized skills, challenging environments, and longer hours involved. These roles often require advanced certifications and experience, which contribute to higher pay compared to standard rotary drilling positions.

What does a Drilling Operator do?

A Drilling Operator is responsible for operating drilling equipment to bore holes into the earth, typically for oil, gas, or mineral extraction. They monitor drilling parameters, adjust equipment settings, and ensure that operations are carried out safely and efficiently. Drilling Operators also inspect and maintain equipment, troubleshoot issues, and follow regulations to protect the environment and workforce. Their role is critical in the energy and mining industries, requiring technical skills and attention to detail.

What are the typical challenges a Drilling Operator faces on the job, and how can they be managed effectively?

Drilling Operators often encounter challenges such as unpredictable subsurface conditions, equipment malfunctions, and strict safety protocols. Managing these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills, close attention to safety procedures, and effective communication with the drilling team and supervisors. Staying up-to-date on equipment maintenance and participating in regular safety meetings are key strategies to ensure operations run smoothly and hazards are minimized. Collaboration with geologists, engineers, and other crew members is also essential for adapting to changing conditions and resolving issues promptly.

How do I become a drill rig operator?

To become a drill rig operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or an apprenticeship to learn equipment operation and safety procedures. Many employers also require certifications such as OSHA safety training and experience with specific drilling tools and machinery.

What is the difference between Drilling Operator vs Well Servicing Operator?

AspectDrilling OperatorWell Servicing Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, technical trainingHigh school diploma, safety certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentOn drilling rigs, outdoor, physically demandingOn well sites, maintenance-focused, outdoor
Industry UsageUsed during drilling operations to operate equipmentUsed during well servicing to maintain and repair wells

Both Drilling Operators and Well Servicing Operators require similar certifications and work in outdoor, physically demanding environments. While Drilling Operators focus on operating drilling equipment during the drilling phase, Well Servicing Operators handle maintenance and repair tasks after the well is drilled. Understanding these roles helps job seekers identify the right career path within the oil and gas industry.

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

To thrive as a Drilling Operator, you need a solid understanding of drilling procedures, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often with additional safety or technical training. Familiarity with drilling rigs, control panels, and industry-specific software such as rig monitoring systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills in this role. These abilities are crucial for maintaining operational efficiency, ensuring safety, and minimizing downtime on drilling sites.
More about Drilling Operator jobs
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Drilling Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drilling Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,917 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Drilling Operator

Lockwood Industries, LLC dba Fralock

Milpitas, CA • On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Drilling Operator

Full Time + Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k with Company Match, PTO)

Job Type: Onsite

Hourly Range: $23.00 - $28.00, DOE

Shift: 1st

Location: Milpitas, CA

Fralock is an engineered solutions provider of specialty components and subassemblies using advanced materials for high reliability, severe environment, and technically challenging applications. We develop and manufacture custom integrated solutions. Established in 1967, we are a critical solutions provider to Fortune 500 corporations, government, and targeted OEMs in a variety of industries including Semiconductor Equipment Manufacturing, Medical and Life Science, Aerospace and Defense, Industrial, Electronics, and Energy. Fralock is headquartered in Valencia, CA with manufacturing locations located throughout Northern and Southern California.

VISION

To be recognized by our customers as a leading solutions provider of proprietary engineered advanced materials for high reliability, severe environment, and technically challenging applications.

MISSION

To create value, profitably grow, and share our success with all stakeholders.

CULTURE

  • Respect – We treat others the way they want to be treated.
  • Integrity – We practice a high standard of ethics in our business dealings with customers, suppliers, and employees.
  • Responsiveness – We have a sense of urgency in responding to internal and external requests and work proactively to solve problems.
  • Excellence/Competence – We empower our people to continuously improve and execute high quality work.
  • Teamwork – We work together to achieve Fralock business objectives by communicating at a high level, by listening and having clarity in our expectations of one another.
  • Individual Accountability and Personal Responsibility – We do what we have committed to do when we committed to doing it.
  • Continuous Improvement across all segments of the company

This position requires access to information controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), the successful candidate must be a "U.S. person" as defined in the ITAR and EAR (which generally means (i) be a citizen or national of the United States; or (ii) be a lawful permanent resident of the United States; or (iii) have been admitted to the United States as a refugee, or have been granted asylum, as specified under applicable law.

Key Responsibilities

  • Follow production priorities as established by the Drilling Department Supervisor
  • Use calipers for board measurements, pin gauges to check materials.
  • Run CNC Excellon or Hitachi machines
  • Communicate material inventory concerns to the Department Supervisor
  • Communicate to the Department Supervisor any changes in production status
  • Follow all company and departmental processes and procedures
  • Monitor quality of work and compliance with process and product specifications
  • Assist new hires on basic set up and operations, provide relief support on equipment and processes.
  • Participate in the evaluation of processes, new equipment and procedures.


Required Skills

  • Knowledge in understanding prints and specifications
  • Ability to visually verify fine detail work
  • Ability to pull/lift and carry 50 lbs.
  • Must be able to stand/walk for a long period of time
  • Ability to read, write and communicate in English to the degree necessary to perform the job

Experience Requirements

  • 1-year minimum experience in Print Circuit Board (PCB) preferred
  • Knowledge in manufacturing flex and rigid flex printed circuit boards preferred
  • Knowledge in understanding prints and specifications

Education Requirements

  • High School Diploma

All offers of employment at Fralock are contingent upon clear results of a background check. Background checks may include some or all the following depending on job title and responsibilities:

  • Social Security Verification
  • Prior Employment Verification
  • Criminal History
  • Personal and Professional References
  • Motor Vehicle Records
  • Credit History

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of a position.

Fralock provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.