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Drilling Rig Crew Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Location Drilling - Permian Basin (TX/NM) Division US Drilling Services Travel 14/14 rotation EOE ... Assess crew-member competencies, and determine training needs. Ensure all required documentation is ...

Driller

Weston, WV

$21.50 - $29.25/hr

... drilling rig * Supervises, trains and coordinates the activities of the drill crew * Performs duties of other crew members when needed * Ensures safety is a top priority for all rig personnel

Driller

Morgantown, WV · On-site

$23.75 - $32.25/hr

... drilling rig * Supervises, trains and coordinates the activities of the drill crew * Performs duties of other crew members when needed * Ensures safety is a top priority for all rig personnel

Driller

Weston, WV · On-site

$21.50 - $29.25/hr

... drilling rig * Supervises, trains and coordinates the activities of the drill crew * Performs duties of other crew members when needed * Ensures safety is a top priority for all rig personnel

Supervise a crew of 2-4 employees. Train and mentor new employees. Perform system construction ... Drill rig operating experience and good working knowledge of the drill rig and the drilling process.

Driller - Permian Basin

Midland, TX

$23.50 - $32/hr

Supervise and direct rig crew, ensure that the Derrickhand maintains proper drilling fluid properties, and assist with rig up / down procedures * Support other crew members as needed, ensure ...

Driller - Permian Basin

Midland, TX · On-site

$23.50 - $32/hr

Supervise and direct rig crew, ensure that the Derrickhand maintains proper drilling fluid properties, and assist with rig up / down procedures * Support other crew members as needed, ensure ...

Driller

Morgantown, WV · On-site

$23.75 - $32.25/hr

... drilling rig * Supervises, trains and coordinates the activities of the drill crew * Performs duties of other crew members when needed * Ensures safety is a top priority for all rig personnel

Driller

Williston, ND · On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

... the crew, and safe operation of the drilling rig is being adhered to. Drillers also operate and monitor the essential systems of the drilling rig including: hoisting, well control, mud and power ...

Driller

Morgantown, WV · On-site

$23.75 - $32.25/hr

... drilling rig * Supervises, trains and coordinates the activities of the drill crew * Performs duties of other crew members when needed * Ensures safety is a top priority for all rig personnel

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Drilling Rig Crew information

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$43

How much do drilling rig crew jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling rig crew in the United States is $27.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.12 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do roughnecks make 180k a year?

Roughnecks, a key part of drilling rig crews, typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, with experienced workers in high-cost regions potentially earning more. Earning $180,000 a year is uncommon and usually requires extensive experience, specialized skills, or working overtime and hazardous conditions.

How to get hired on a drilling rig?

To get hired as a drilling rig crew member, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant safety certifications such as OSHA, and physical fitness. Experience in manual labor or previous work in the oil and gas industry can improve chances, and employers often require drug testing and background checks before employment.

What is the typical work schedule and environment like for a Drilling Rig Crew member?

Drilling Rig Crew members often work in remote locations and may follow rotational schedules, such as two weeks on and two weeks off, due to the around-the-clock nature of drilling operations. The work is physically demanding, usually outdoors in all types of weather, and involves standing for long periods and operating heavy equipment. Teamwork is essential, as crew members must coordinate tasks and prioritize safety at all times. The collaborative and fast-paced environment also provides ample opportunities for learning new skills and advancing to higher positions within the drilling crew.

How much do oil rig crews make?

Oil rig crews, including drilling rig workers, typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, role, and location. Entry-level positions such as roustabouts may start around $40,000, while specialized roles like drillers and toolpushers can earn higher salaries, often supplemented by overtime and hazard pay.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

In the drilling rig crew industry, high-paying roles such as drilling supervisors, toolpushers, or specialized engineers can earn around $2,000 or more per day, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and working in remote or challenging environments. These positions often require advanced technical skills, safety training, and long shifts, reflecting the demanding nature of the work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Drilling Rig Crew position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drilling Rig Crew member, you need strong mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and a willingness to work in challenging outdoor conditions, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with drilling machinery, safety protocols, and certifications such as H2S and First Aid/CPR are commonly required. Teamwork, effective communication, and the ability to quickly adapt to changing site demands are key soft skills in this field. These skills are critical to ensure operational efficiency, maintain safety standards, and handle the demanding nature of drilling operations.

What is a Drilling Rig Crew job?

A Drilling Rig Crew is a team responsible for operating and maintaining drilling rigs in the oil, gas, or geothermal industries. Crew members perform various tasks, including assembling equipment, monitoring drilling operations, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. Roles within the crew include roughnecks, derrickhands, drillers, and rig managers, each with specific responsibilities. The job requires physical strength, teamwork, and long hours in challenging conditions. Proper training and certification are essential for working safely and efficiently on a rig.

More about Drilling Rig Crew jobs
What states have the most Drilling Rig Crew jobs? States with the most job openings for Drilling Rig Crew jobs include:

Drilling Rig Operator

Lighthouse Drilling, LLC

El Dorado, KS • On-site

$26 - $29/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Position Overview:

Operators lead a three-to-five-person rig crew while safely operating drilling rig components. This is a safety-sensitive position. They are responsible for rig up and down activities, general equipment repairs, and maintenance of rig components. Operators conduct safety meetings and assign activities on the rig floor or derrick. They supervise the mud-mixing duties and other duties performed by floor hands & derrick hands. Operators are responsible for their crew performing these duties safely and efficiently.
This is a safety-sensitive position.
Major Duties:
  • Ensures all crew members are at the rig and prepared to work at the scheduled time.
  • Performs routine operating functions and troubleshooting on all equipment with direction from operation personnel and the client company representative.
  • Operates the draw works and assesses downhole conditions and well pressures.
  • Handles jack stands and instructs crew on securing the guy wires.
  • Provides operating reports (via Pason) to the Field Supervisor-Rigs or Toolpusher.
  • Tested and monitored equipment using correct procedures.
  • Trained and directed the crew on safety and job procedures.
  • Establishes daily maintenance & housekeeping program for the rig.
  • Oversees the setting up, taking down, and transportation of drilling rigs & equipment.
  • May be requested to work outside of regular work schedule to meet customer needs.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Basic Requirements:
  • We expect more out of our drillers than most contractors. We need them to be driven and able to direct crew members to work hard.
  • We also expect our Drillers to lead by example via. their good work ethic.
  • Previous Drilling Experience on a Kelly Drive Rig.
  • A valid Driver's License is required (CDL Preferred but not required).
  • Knowledge of basic mechanical functions.
  • Oilfield industry experience.
  • Must pass pre-employment drug and alcohol screening & background check.
  • Able to work well with & lead a team 

Preferred (not required):
  • High School diploma, GED, or equivalent education.
  • Clean Driving Record.
  • CDL.
  • 2+ years of previous drilling rig operations experience (required).

Physical Requirements:
  • Able to lift, move, or carry up to 85 pounds.
  • Able to regularly walk and climb stairs up to 15' high.
  • Able to stay alert and attentive for a 12-hour tour while performing sometimes repetitive tasks.
  • Able to open/close valves requiring upwards of 160 lbs of torque.
  • Able to pull drill slips with another employee and latch/unlatch tongs.
  • Able to listen for unusual noises that signify equipment and machinery problems.

Mental Alertness Requirements:
  • Work in a constant state of alertness and sin a afe manner.
  • Have, display & maintain the ability to perform tasks involving high levels of cognitive function and judgment.
  • Not being mentally or physically impaired from any cause can adversely affect an employee’s ability to safely and completely perform the duties of the position.
  • Have, display & maintain the ability to cope with sudden changes in surroundings and/or emergencies and/or alarms.
  • Have, display & maintain, and demonstrate a caring, committed, and concerned attitude about personal and crewmember safety.

Typical working conditions and hazards:
  • Work is performed in all weather conditions.
  • Able to perform duties with protective equipment.
  • Potential hazards include working near or with heavy tools and moving machinery.
  • Occasional work will be done on slick surfaces due to weather, drilling mud, or oil/grease.

Not Your Typical Drilling Company:
Founded in 2018, Lighthouse Drilling, LLC is a family-owned and & operated drilling company with a quickly growing reputation in Central Kansas, Northern Oklahoma, and Southern Nebraska. Lighthouse offers a family-friendly, enjoyable work atmosphere and provides advancement opportunities for individuals who are humble and hard-working.
Core Values:

Integrity  - Safety  - Performance

Our motto is "Excellence in Drilling" and we mean it.
For full-time employees, Lighthouse provides:
  • Highly competitive salaries
  • Company Driver (Pickup Truck) 
  • Advancement Opportunities
  • Per Diem
  • Health Benefits
  • Dental Benefits
  • Vision Benefits
  • Paid Time Off (starting at 12 months of employment)
  • 100% company-matched IRA program
  • Annual allowance for work clothes 
  • Annual Reimbursements for Gear / Boots & Overalls
  • Performance-based bonuses & incentives
  • Company Uniforms
  • Paid Holidays 

Drug-Free Environment - Consistent Work Schedule - Lots of Overtime Available - Established and Growing Company.
Check out our website: www.LighthouseDrilling.com
Thanks!