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Drilling Operator Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

McCallum Rock Drilling

Rock Drill Operator

Cheney, WA · On-site

Salary: $21.00 - $30.00 McCallum Rock Drilling (MRD) is a rock drilling and blasting contractor ... The ideal candidate will have some prior construction and heavy equipment operating experience. The ...

Midwest Mole

HDD Drill Operator

Greenfield, IN · On-site

Salary: ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND DUTIES * Directional Drill operator in central Indiana and surrounding areas in the Midwest. * Be willing to travel during the week when needed. Home most weekends

MCC, Inc.

Drill Operator - Aggregate

Appleton, WI · On-site

Salary: Starting at $30 an hour and up, based on experience CAREER OPPORTUNITY: DRILL OPERATOR - AGGREGATE FOX CITIES | WISCONSIN RESPONSIBILITIES Drill Operators are vital team members on our ...

Zemer Odessa Llc

Drill Operator

Odessa, TX · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

Operate drilling equipment to bore holes in the ground for blasting * Inspect and maintain ... Competitive salary, depending on experience * Full time permanent employment * Paid vacation after ...

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Drilling Operator Salary information

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$13

$27

$51

How much do drilling operator salary jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling operator salary 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 is the difference between Drilling Operator Salary vs Well Service Technician Salary?

AspectDrilling Operator SalaryWell Service Technician Salary
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical training, certificationsHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications
Work EnvironmentOffshore/onshore drilling rigs, oil fieldsOffshore/onshore well servicing sites, oil fields
Employer & Industry UsageOil & gas exploration companies, drilling contractorsOil & gas companies, well servicing firms

Both Drilling Operators and Well Service Technicians typically require similar certifications and work in oil fields or offshore rigs. While their roles differ slightly in focus—drilling vs. well servicing—they share comparable work environments and employer types. Understanding these similarities helps job seekers compare salaries and career paths effectively.

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 techniques, equipment operation, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with drilling rigs, hydraulic systems, and industry-specific software and certifications such as Well Control or OSHA safety are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork help operators perform efficiently and safely in challenging environments. These skills are essential to ensure safe extraction processes, minimize downtime, and maintain compliance with industry standards.

What are some common challenges faced by drilling operators in the field, and how can they be addressed?

Drilling Operators often encounter challenges such as working in remote or harsh environments, managing equipment malfunctions, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols. These challenges can be addressed through thorough pre-job planning, regular equipment maintenance, and ongoing safety training. Team collaboration is essential, as Operators work closely with engineers, safety officers, and other crew members to troubleshoot issues and maintain efficient operations. Strong communication skills and adaptability are key for overcoming unexpected situations on the job.

What is the average salary of a drilling operator?

The average salary of a drilling operator in the United States typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the type of drilling (oil, gas, or water). Entry-level positions may start at a lower wage, while experienced operators or those working in high-demand regions can earn significantly more. Additional factors such as overtime, shift differentials, and employer benefits can also impact total compensation.
More about Drilling Operator Salary jobs
What cities are hiring for Drilling Operator Salary jobs? Cities with the most Drilling Operator Salary job openings:
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Drilling Operator Salary jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drilling Operator 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 $57,917 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

DRILLING OPERATOR - Third Shift Overnights

American Standard Circuits LLC

West Chicago, IL • On-site

$19.25 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
3rd Shift runs from 10:30 p.m. - 7:00 a.m., Monday - Friday.
SUMMARY OF FUNCTIONS
Actively involved in all duties for procedures related to operate machines to drill and/or rout panel boards.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Position panels on machine table, flush and aligned with tooling holes, start operation and remove boards at the end of the cycle.
  • Check processed parts against template.
  • Check tool sizes, remove and replace reset tools in magazine. Replace broken tools as required.
  • Obtain and put away drills, mark drills that need to be re-sharpened.
  • Notify supervisor of unusual equipment or operating difficulties.

Requirements
QUALIFICATIONS
A high school diploma is required.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Standing for long periods of time is required.
Exertion of up to 50 lbs. of force occasionally may be required. Good manual dexterity for the use of common office equipment such as computer terminals, calculator, copiers, and FAX machines.
Use of small drill bits; dexterity required.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
This position is in a manufacturing setting with exposure to noise, dirt and chemicals.
Salary Description
$19.25 - $21.25

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