Using but not limited to hand tools aka shovels, hammers, stakes, measuring devises, and bars. * Using but not limited to mechanical tools aka walk behind equipment, compaction tools, and jack ...
Using but not limited to hand tools aka shovels, hammers, stakes, measuring devises, and bars. * Using but not limited to mechanical tools aka walk behind equipment, compaction tools, and jack ...
Drilling Rig Hand information
See Delaware salary details
$14.44 - $16.34
8% of jobs
$17.40 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$16.34 - $18.24
30% of jobs
The median wage is $19.61 / hr.
$18.24 - $20.14
16% of jobs
$20.14 - $22.05
1% of jobs
$22.05 - $23.95
0% of jobs
$23.95 - $25.85
0% of jobs
$25.85 - $27.76
0% of jobs
$27.76 - $29.66
3% of jobs
$29.66 - $31.56
15% of jobs
$31.56 - $33.46
0% of jobs
$33.52 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$33.46 - $35.37
26% of jobs
$14
$24
$35
How much do drilling rig hand jobs pay per hour?
As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling rig hand in Delaware is $24.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $34.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drilling Rig Hand, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Drilling Rig Hand, you need physical stamina, mechanical aptitude, and a basic understanding of drilling operations, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with safety protocols, hand and power tools, and sometimes certifications like H2S Alive or First Aid are commonly required. Strong teamwork, communication, and attention to detail are crucial soft skills for working efficiently and safely on-site. These abilities are vital to ensure safety, operational efficiency, and the successful completion of drilling projects in demanding environments.
What are some common challenges faced by Drilling Rig Hands, and how can they be managed on the job?
Drilling Rig Hands often encounter physically demanding tasks, exposure to harsh weather, and long shifts that can extend beyond typical working hours. Maintaining safety is a top priority, as the work involves heavy machinery and potentially hazardous materials. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, since Rig Hands coordinate closely with other crew members to ensure smooth operations and prevent accidents. Adapting to changing conditions and staying attentive to safety protocols can help manage these challenges and contribute to a successful rig environment.
What are Drilling Rig Hands?
Drilling Rig Hands, often referred to as roughnecks, are entry-level workers on oil and gas drilling rigs. They are responsible for a variety of manual labor tasks such as handling drilling equipment, maintaining the rig, and assisting more experienced crew members with drilling operations. Rig Hands work in physically demanding environments and often follow strict safety protocols. Their work is essential to the smooth and efficient operation of drilling rigs. Over time, Rig Hands can advance to higher positions with experience and training.
What is the difference between Drilling Rig Hand vs Derrickhand?
| Aspect | Drilling Rig Hand | Derrickhand |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | High school diploma, safety training, basic certifications | Similar certifications, more specialized safety training |
| Work Environment | On drilling rigs, outdoors, physically demanding | On drilling rigs, working in the derrick, physically demanding |
| Job Responsibilities | Assisting with equipment, maintenance, safety procedures | Handling drilling fluid, maintaining the derrick, assisting in drilling operations |
The main difference between a Drilling Rig Hand and a Derrickhand lies in their specific roles on the rig. While both work in similar environments and require comparable certifications, Derrickhands focus more on managing drilling fluids and working in the derrick, whereas Drilling Rig Hands assist with general equipment and safety tasks. Both positions are essential for efficient drilling operations and often overlap in skills and training.
What are popular job titles related to Drilling Rig Hand jobs in Delaware? For Drilling Rig Hand jobs in Delaware, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drilling Rig Hand jobs in Delaware look for? The top searched job categories for Drilling Rig Hand jobs in Delaware are:
What cities in Delaware are hiring for Drilling Rig Hand jobs? Cities in Delaware with the most Drilling Rig Hand job openings:
Horizontal Directional Drill Rig Operator / Equipment Operator - G&L
Dover, DE • On-site
Full-time
Re-posted 27 days ago
Job description
Application Instructions
Please click on "Apply" to fill out application.
Position Description
Position Requirements
Education Requirement: None
Physical Requirement: Able to pick up 50 lbs./Move full range of motions/Capable of using hand and mechanical tools
Equal Opportunity Employer
Equal access to programs, services and employment opportunities is available to all persons without regard to race (includes traits associated with race, including hair textures and protective hairstyles), color, religion, age, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, disability, genetic information, or any other basis protected by federal, state, and/local law.
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and/or applicable state and local laws, applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the application and/or interview process should notify the Human Resources Department. Examples of reasonable accommodations include making a change to the application process; providing written materials in alternate format such as braille, large print, or audio recording; using a sign language interpreter; using specialized equipment; or modifying testing conditions.
Please click on "Apply" to fill out application.
Position Description
- Must report to work each day as scheduled by Foreman on time and ready to work.
- Employee shall call Foreman if they are to miss day or report late.
- Must wear required safety clothing and personal safety equipment as required per daily situation.
- Work is basically geared toward operating equipment but manual labor is still required.
- Using but not limited to hand tools aka shovels, hammers, stakes, measuring devises, and bars.
- Using but not limited to mechanical tools aka walk behind equipment, compaction tools, and jack hammers.
- Must know how to read rulers and construction layout markings.
- At a minimum, can operate broom tractors, dirt roller, front end of backhoe, loader, pull/paddle pan, tractors, conveyors, screens, skid steer, and off road truck in a safe and efficient manner.
- In addition to the above pieces of equipment, more experienced operators can operate Excavators, HMA Rollers, Basic Hot Mix Paver, Dozers, Back end of Backhoe, mini Millers, Demo Hammer, Gradall, Grader, Trenchless Machine, Milling Machine, Crane or any other special machine along with using automatics, GPS and Grade Controls.
- Must have general knowledge for maintaining equipment and notifying Supervisor of any mechanical or safety issues with the equipment.
- Must keep the interior clean so that trash does not build up to where it interferes with the safe operation of the equipment.
Position Requirements
Education Requirement: None
Physical Requirement: Able to pick up 50 lbs./Move full range of motions/Capable of using hand and mechanical tools
Equal Opportunity Employer
Equal access to programs, services and employment opportunities is available to all persons without regard to race (includes traits associated with race, including hair textures and protective hairstyles), color, religion, age, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, disability, genetic information, or any other basis protected by federal, state, and/local law.
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and/or applicable state and local laws, applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the application and/or interview process should notify the Human Resources Department. Examples of reasonable accommodations include making a change to the application process; providing written materials in alternate format such as braille, large print, or audio recording; using a sign language interpreter; using specialized equipment; or modifying testing conditions.