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Drilling Rig Hand Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Coastal Well Service LLC

Righand

Morgantown, WV · On-site

$23.75 - $32.25/hr

During non-drilling operations, the rig hand's work activities include repair and maintenance of the drilling equipment as directed by the driller, mechanic, or toolpusher. During relocation of the ...

Warren Drilling

Crane Rigger

Dexter City, OH · On-site

Attach loads to crane rigging appropriately for lifting and placing drilling rig components and ... Signal/communicate with crane operator using proper hand signals and or radio. * Assist in rigging ...

Calista Corporation

Floorhand

Anchorage, AK · On-site

General upkeep of drilling rig mechanical equipment. * Handles equipment and pipe on rig floor ... Performs many job functions relating to the use of the hand tools, pipe wrenches and power tongs.

Plants and Goodwin, Inc.

Derrickman

Lore City, OH

Daily operation of the workover rig and support equipment * Assist in the mobilization and rigging up and down of the workover rig * Operating of the tongs and slips to connect and dis-connect drill ...

Plants and Goodwin, Inc.

Derrickman

Lore City, OH · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Daily operation of the workover rig and support equipment * Assist in the mobilization and rigging up and down of the workover rig * Operating of the tongs and slips to connect and dis-connect drill ...

Calista Corporation

Floorhand

Prudhoe Bay, AK

General upkeep of drilling rig mechanical equipment. * Handles equipment and pipe on rig floor ... Performs many job functions relating to the use of the hand tools, pipe wrenches and power tongs.

Plants and Goodwin, Inc.

Derrickman

Lore City, OH · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Daily operation of the workover rig and support equipment * Assist in the mobilization and rigging up and down of the workover rig * Operating of the tongs and slips to connect and dis-connect drill ...

AKITA Drilling

Floorhand

Midland, TX · On-site

$28/hr

The Floorhand works under the close supervision of the Driller, but reports directly to the Rig Manager. Position Requirements Minimum Qualifications Education And/Or Experience High School Diploma ...

Parker Drilling

TRS Technician II

Kenai, AK

$37.30K - $37.80K/yr

Work with hand tools and operate hydraulically activated equipment * Rig up, run, and rig down various components on a drilling rig. * Communicate clearly and professionally with all rig, customer ...

AKITA Drilling

Floorhand

Glasgow, MT · On-site

$28/hr

The Floorhand works under the close supervision of the Driller, but reports directly to the Rig Manager. Position Requirements Minimum Qualifications Education And/Or Experience High School Diploma ...

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$14

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$35

How much do drilling rig hand jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling rig hand in the United States is $24.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $34.13 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.

More about Drilling Rig Hand jobs
What cities are hiring for Drilling Rig Hand jobs? Cities with the most Drilling Rig Hand job openings:
What states have the most Drilling Rig Hand jobs? States with the most job openings for Drilling Rig Hand jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Drilling Rig Hand jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Drilling Rig Hand jobs are:
Drilling Rig Hand jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drilling Rig Hand job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 15% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 70% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,762 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Righand

Coastal Well Service LLC

Morgantown, WV • On-site

$23.75 - $32.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Righand - Job Description
Coastal Well Service LLC
Position:
  • Righand

Department:
  • Operations

Location:
  • Field-Based

Direct Report:
  • Driller

Summary:
  • The righand operates and maintains the rig floor including drill pipe, hosing equipment (winch cat line), tongs, slips and pump systems as direct by the driller. During non-drilling operations, the rig hand's work activities include repair and maintenance of the drilling equipment as directed by the driller, mechanic, or toolpusher. During relocation of the drilling rig, the rig hand assists in positioning of the drill rig on and off location.

Responsibilities:
  • Participates in pre-tour and subsequent safety/JSA/toolbox talk meetings
  • Understands and takes action on "Stop Work Authority" when appropriate
  • Conducts routine and pre-use equipment inspections with proper documentation
  • Properly inspects, maintains and uses all Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in accordance with company standards and safety policies
  • Follows all Company safety policies and procedures
  • Reports to driller upon timely task completions
  • Assist driller during operations which require running tallies or completing physical tasks
  • Utilizes rig equipment (tongs, slips, elevators, and winch line) to safely perform drilling operations in accordance with client specifications
  • After reaching specified drill depth, assist the driller with pulling and running pipe into and out of well: make and break connections
  • This task may be performed several times per shift and may be completed continuously throughout the shift pending status of project
  • Assist driller in running tubing, fishing tools, mud, grout, and casing into and out of the well
  • Ensures fuel levels, oil levels, and replenishes the various fuel tanks
  • Performs routine maintenance on Rig which includes both mechanical and cosmetic washing of the rig components and surface
  • Participates in housekeeping activities: cleaning, washing, and painting of rig and rig support equipment
  • Complete all other duties as assigned/directed by driller or tool pusher

Education:
  • High School Diploma or GED, preferred

Experience:
  • Previous experience as rig hand, floorhand, derrickhand preferred
  • Previous experience in a high paced safety sensitive work environment preferred
  • Working knowledge of oil/gas operations preferred

Skills & Abilities:
  • Able to communicate and comprehend the efforts of others
  • Able to think and act quickly
  • Able to work in a team environment
  • Must be organized and attentive to details in a fast paced working environment
  • Able to multi-task, stay organized and close out assigned tasks
  • Able to operate independently and make safe decisions regarding personal conduct
  • Able to work for extended periods of time in harsh weather conditions
  • Able to think and act independently to ensure personal and team success and safety
  • Must be able to work flexible hours and travel

Certifications:
  • MSHA Part 48, preferred
  • OSHA 10 Certification or greater, preferred

Travel:
  • Must be willing to travel

Physical Requirements:
  • The individual must be able to wear and properly utilize appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to work or visit within areas where it is required
  • This includes hard hat, safety glasses, life vest, respirators, ear plugs, steel toed shoes, or other protective equipment as required by the work performed and location the work is being done
  • Walking, stepping, climbing or otherwise moving from one location on the job site to another, and normally involves physically getting into and out of equipment through the use of vertical mounted ladders up to and including 10' or more in height
  • Visually seeing driving operations well (either naturally or with corrective lenses)
  • Standing, stooping kneeling, squatting, climbing and sitting
  • Repetitive movements by feet, shoulders, arms, wrists, hands and back in performance of work
  • Working at elevated heights
  • Lifting 50 lb. objects occasionally and carrying 50 lb. objects occasionally
  • Adapting to outdoor conditions and prolonged exposure to sometimes adverse weather conditions
  • Remaining calm during emergencies and respond appropriately as dictated by the circumstance of the incident
  • Exposure to working outdoors in all-weather conditions
  • Ability to work more than 40 hours in any given week including weekend assignments and holidays as required

EEO:
  • Coastal Well Service LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabilities and protected veteran status

Accessibility: If you need an accommodation to complete the application process please contact Human Resources at
Phone: +1 (304) 291.0175
Email: HR@shaftdrillers.com
Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabilities and protected veteran status.
If you want to view the Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal poster, please choose your language: English - Spanish - Arabic - Chinese
English - Spanish - Chinese
If you want to view the Pay Transparency Policy Statement, please click the link: English
The Company provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. The Company complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

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