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Drilling Rig Hand Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

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Drilling Rig Hand information

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$14

$24

$34

How much do drilling rig hand jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling rig hand in Raleigh, NC is $24.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $33.17 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 Raleigh, NC? For Drilling Rig Hand jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drilling Rig Hand jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Drilling Rig Hand jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Drilling Rig Hand jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Drilling Rig Hand job openings:
Drilling Rig Hand jobs near you
Telecommunications Drill Locator

Telecommunications Drill Locator

Hyper Networks

Durham, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Directional Drill Locator are responsible for running a variety of directional drilling equipment; Directional Drill, Excavator, Forklift, Dump truck etc. The individual in this position is required to work at all times with safety in mind. Must be able to read, understand and follow company policies and procedures related to safety, and attend all scheduled safety meetings, as well as competent person and OSHA training. Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following.CDL is prefered for this position.
MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Operates drilling equipment and various other construction equipment
  • Experience drilling in both standard and high-risk areas, such as areas with live utilities
  • Have knowledge of utility depths and placement
  • Possess general knowledge of construction practices and be familiar with equipment
  • Respect the importance of ensuring Company assets (vehicles, equipment, tools, etc.) are properly and continuously maintained in good repair and secured in a safe manner
  • Ability to read blueprints Organization of materials and other resources is necessary to complete excavation requirements, which may include basic hand tools
  • Assist as required in all locating aspects of the project as directed by the Drill Operator
  • Handle physically demanding construction duties.
  • Assist crew members in placing underground pipes, conduits, manual labor and shovel work, operate power tools
  • Some experience operating drilling machinery
  • Work as a part of a crew.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES
Qualifications To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Previous experience as HDD Rig Operator is a plus
  • Combination of work experience and/or technical training in an industry-related trade certification or education program.
  • Must possess and maintain a clean driver's abstract and valid full-driver's license appropriate to the requirements of the vehicle being driven - CDL required (Class A)
  • Working knowledge of health, safety and environmental protection practices and procedures as they apply to related construction processes
  • Follow safety policies and procedures and wear the required personal protective equipment required for the job in a safe manner
  • Strong knowledge of construction documents
  • Must be able to track and communicate daily production and materials.
  • Must be capable of handling logistics and crew assignments
  • Ability to communicate clearly and collaborate with multiple project stakeholders, interpret stakeholders' needs, and identify solutions
  • Ability to work with little supervision, while adding to a safe and positive team environment is a must
  • Must have basic computer skills in order to develop and maintain bore logs
  • Ability to multi-task and work in a fast paced environment
  • Must be able to climb up and down ladders, scaffoldings and lifts
  • Ability to work in all weather conditions; this includes extreme temperatures
  • At times you may be required to work in trenches, manholes, tunnels, closets, and crawl spaces
  • Have knowledge and ability to identify and use basic hand tools
  • Class A CDL license
  • Ability to identify and distinguish colors of utility flags and markings on the ground.
  • Must be willing to travel
EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Valid Class Driver License or State Issued ID required
  • 1 year of relevant experience preferred, or an equivalent of education and experience
  • Restoration experience in asphalt and concrete preferred
  • Experience operating vibratory plows beneficial
  • Experience operating mini-excavators beneficial
  • CDL Class A license is preferred
  • OSHA 10 Certification.
  • Precise hand-eye coordination.
  • Good written and verbal communication skills.
WORKING CONDITIONS
  • May be required to work long and unpredictable hours including weekends
  • Working outdoors in all types of weather conditions
  • Bend/squat/kneel/stand frequently
  • Exposure to dust, fluctuating temperatures, and periodic high noise levels
  • Must be able to lift up to 80 lbs. from floor and above head

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