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Drilling Rig Hand Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

Hydro Resources Holding

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 ...

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Drilling Rig Hand information

See Austin, TX salary details

$14

$24

$35

How much do drilling rig hand jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling rig hand in Austin, TX is $24.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.64 and $33.85 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?

AspectDrilling Rig HandDerrickhand
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety training, basic certificationsSimilar certifications, more specialized safety training
Work EnvironmentOn drilling rigs, outdoors, physically demandingOn drilling rigs, working in the derrick, physically demanding
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with equipment, maintenance, safety proceduresHandling 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 Austin, TX? For Drilling Rig Hand jobs in Austin, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drilling Rig Hand jobs in Austin, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Drilling Rig Hand jobs in Austin, TX are:
What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Drilling Rig Hand jobs? Cities near Austin, TX with the most Drilling Rig Hand job openings:
Drilling Rig Hand jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drilling Rig Hand job openings in Austin, TX as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,307 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Rig Hand

Hydro Resources Holding

Buda, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Rig Hand

Summary

Part of the crew responsible for the maintenance and day to day operation of the rig.


Responsibilities

  • Performs general maintenance of drilling and associated equipment.
  • Loads and off-loads pipe and assists in rig movement.
  • Checks dies in slips and tongs and all safety and riding belts to verify condition.
  • Responds to emergency situations.
  • Trips pipe – uses slips, tongs and elevators.
  • Cut and thread pipe.
  • Perform service maintenance on rigs.
  • Follow all safety requirements.
  • Assists in running casing and tubing as directed.
  • Assists in catching samples and managing mud properties as directed.
  • Clean and maintain work sites, shop and yard areas.
  • Learn operation of the rig.


Knowledge and Skill Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED preferred.
  • Knowledge of types of drill pipe and drill collars.
  • Knowledge of thread types and tubing sizes.
  • Knowledge of working derricks and drill floor.
  • Ability to travel.
  • Requires willingness to work a flexible schedule.
  • Good driving record with CDL preferred.
  • Valid Drivers License

Benefits:

  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible spending account
  • Medical insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Short Term Disability
  • Long Term Disability
  • Paid time off
  • Referral program

Equal Opportunity Employer Veterans/Disabled, E-Verify Employer

As part of the pre-employment hiring process at Hydro Resources Holding, Inc. and its subsidiaries, all candidates will be required to undergo background check and drug screening.

External Company URL: Hydro Resources | Groundwater Exploration and Production (https://hydroresources.com/)