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Drilling Rig Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Bore Rig Operator

Acampo, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

A bore rig operator's duties include safely operating and maintaining drilling equipment to create ... The operator skillfully uses levers and controls to manage the drill's speed, pressure, and ...

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TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member V

Lodi, CA · On-site

$24.50 - $33.25/hr

Demonstrate a mastery of problem solving and implementing solutions on complex to very complex problems independently or with minor guidance from management. Operate a geotechnical drill rig to ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member IV

Lodi, CA · On-site

$24.50 - $33.25/hr

Demonstrate an ability to problem solve and implement solutions on moderately to very complex problems with guidance from management or other senior level ETMs. Operate a geotechnical drill rig to ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member III

Lodi, CA · On-site

$24.50 - $33.25/hr

Demonstrate an ability to problem solve and implement solutions on routine to moderately complex problems with guidance from management or other senior level ETMs. Operate a geotechnical drill rig to ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member III

Lodi, CA

$24.50 - $33.25/hr

Demonstrate an ability to problem solve and implement solutions on routine to moderately complex problems with guidance from management or other senior level ETMs. * Operate a geotechnical drill rig ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member II

Lodi, CA · On-site

$24.50 - $33.25/hr

ETMs will perform daily tasks including: survey and locate drilling points; conduct site ... Operate a geotechnical drill rig to advance shallow boreholes in soil. * Oversee a 2-man drill crew ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member IV

Lodi, CA · On-site

$33 - $46.20/hr

Demonstrate an ability to problem solve and implement solutions on moderately to very complex problems with guidance from management or other senior level ETMs. * Operate a geotechnical drill rig to ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member IV

Lodi, CA · On-site

$24.50 - $33.25/hr

Demonstrate an ability to problem solve and implement solutions on moderately to very complex problems with guidance from management or other senior level ETMs. * Operate a geotechnical drill rig to ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member V

Lodi, CA

$24.50 - $33.25/hr

Demonstrate a mastery of problem solving and implementing solutions on complex to very complex problems independently or with minor guidance from management. * Operate a geotechnical drill rig to ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member III

Lodi, CA · On-site

$27.78 - $38.78/hr

Demonstrate an ability to problem solve and implement solutions on routine to moderately complex problems with guidance from management or other senior level ETMs. * Operate a geotechnical drill rig ...

NABORS

RigCLOUD Technician I - California

Bakersfield, CA

$20.50 - $28/hr

Frequent exposure to outdoor elements, drilling rig environments, and electronic devices. * Must be ... Manage and maintain inventory, company assets, and service documentation. * Monitor rig movement ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member II

Lodi, CA · On-site

$24.48 - $34.38/hr

ETMs will perform daily tasks including survey and locate drilling points; conduct site ... Operate a geotechnical drill rig to advance shallow boreholes in soil. * Oversee a 2-man drill crew ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member V

Lodi, CA · On-site

$34.10 - $53.08/hr

Demonstrate a mastery of problem solving and implementing solutions on complex to very complex problems independently or with minor guidance from management. * Operate a geotechnical drill rig to ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member II

Lodi, CA · On-site

$24.50 - $33.25/hr

ETMs will perform daily tasks including survey and locate drilling points; conduct site ... Operate a geotechnical drill rig to advance shallow boreholes in soil. * Oversee a 2-man drill crew ...

NABORS

RIGCLOUD TECHNICIAN II

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$20.50 - $28/hr

Frequent exposure to outdoor elements, drilling rig environments, and electronic devices. * Must be ... Manage and maintain inventory, company assets, and service documentation. * Monitor rig movement ...

Rain For Rent

Rig Team Lead

Stockton, CA

$25 - $31/hr

The Rig Team Lead will assist with the installation, maintenance, and operation of drilling ... Complete projects independently as required by management. • Enforce safety practices and proper ...

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Drilling Rig Manager information

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$34

How much do drilling rig manager jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling rig manager in California is $24.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $33.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you become a rig manager?

To become a drilling rig manager, individuals typically need several years of experience working in the oil and gas industry, often starting as a roustabout, roughneck, or driller. They should acquire relevant certifications such as Well Control or HSE training and develop strong leadership, technical, and safety skills. Advancement usually involves gaining hands-on experience, technical knowledge, and demonstrating the ability to oversee drilling operations efficiently.

What is the salary of a rig manager?

A drilling rig manager's salary typically ranges from $80,000 to $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the drilling operations. Experienced managers with certifications and technical skills tend to earn higher wages, often supplemented with overtime and bonuses.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Drilling Rig Manager?

A Drilling Rig Manager oversees the entire drilling operation, ensuring all processes run safely, efficiently, and according to schedule. Daily tasks include coordinating with drilling crews, monitoring rig performance data, enforcing safety protocols, and troubleshooting operational issues as they arise. The role also involves regular communication with on-site supervisors, engineers, and company representatives to align operational goals. This hands-on management ensures that drilling targets are met while maintaining high standards of safety and productivity.

What is a Drilling Rig Manager job?

A Drilling Rig Manager oversees the daily operations of a drilling rig, ensuring safety, efficiency, and compliance with regulations. They manage personnel, coordinate drilling activities, and troubleshoot operational challenges. Additionally, they communicate with company representatives, monitor budgets, and ensure that drilling projects stay on schedule. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and technical expertise are essential for this role.

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

To thrive as a Drilling Rig Manager, you need extensive knowledge of drilling operations, health and safety regulations, and proven experience in oil and gas field management, often supported by a relevant engineering degree and certifications like IWCF or IADC Well Control. Familiarity with drilling management software, rig instrumentation systems, and advanced safety compliance tools is typically required. Exceptional leadership, decision-making, and effective communication skills are essential for managing diverse teams and responding to unforeseen challenges. These competencies ensure operational efficiency, strict adherence to safety standards, and successful delivery of drilling projects.

How much does a drill rig manager make?

A drill rig manager typically earns between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the drilling operations. They oversee drilling crews, ensure safety protocols, and manage equipment, often requiring certifications and strong leadership skills.

What is the highest paid position on an oil rig?

On an oil rig, the highest paid position is typically the Drilling Superintendent or Rig Manager, especially in senior roles overseeing operations. However, specialized roles such as drilling engineers or company executives can also command higher salaries depending on experience and location. These positions often require extensive technical knowledge, certifications, and leadership skills.
What are the most commonly searched types of Drilling Rig jobs in California? The most popular types of Drilling Rig jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Drilling Rig Manager jobs in California? For Drilling Rig Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drilling Rig Manager jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Drilling Rig Manager jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Drilling Rig Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Drilling Rig Manager job openings:
Drilling Rig Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drilling Rig Manager job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,085 per year, or $24.6 per hour.
Drilling/Drill Site Manager III

Drilling/Drill Site Manager III

West Coast Logistics

Bakersfield, CA • On-site

$1.1K - $1.2K/day

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

Client Highlight
The Client you will be working for is a Fortune 100 Oil and Gas Company. This opportunity will give you experience in the energy sector in the United States with a company that is a globally recognized leader in energy production and one of the biggest companies in the US.

Location
Bakersfield, California, 93308

Compensation
$1,100–$1,200 per day

Schedule
Working Model: Onsite
Working Hours: 14/14 hitch rotation

Contract Term
1 year with possible extension

Responsibilities - Drilling/Drill Site Manager III
  • Managing day-to-day rig operations as a Drilling/wellsite representative for the Wells Abandonment organization.
  • Assumes initial control of any emergency onsite and follows the procedures outlined in the Emergency Response Plan.
  • Ensures that the rig contractor and service company personnel perform safely and efficiently and in accordance with their contractual obligations.
  • Witnesses and documents all required safety drills, testing, and in-house inspections of equipment, and ensures conformity to the required standard of performance and frequency. Requests mobilization of materials, equipment, and services in a timely manner and initiates the removal of redundant materials and the immediate return of rental equipment when it is no longer required.
  • Ensures that the Drilling Superintendent is fully briefed on all drilling operational matters.
  • Ensures that reports are prepared and submitted in accordance with the reporting procedures.
  • Maintains a well file on the current well and submits it to the Completions & Drilling Engineer at the completion of each well.
  • Ensures the drilling activities are in continual compliance with its HSE Management System. Facilitates and conducts HSE Risk Assessment for the drilling activities in liaison with the concerned departments. Ensures compliance of Drilling contractor personnel with HSE policies, procedures, and standards. Works as an emergency controller in case of any emergency within the assigned rig and the production platform.
Required Qualifications/Skills
  • 10+ years of experience in onshore drilling operations.
  • 5+ years of experience at the supervisory level with an oil company.
  • Current IADC Well Control Certificate required; recent Well Control training and testing strongly preferred. Candidates must be prepared to meet client-specific Well Control competency requirements upon assignment.
  • Familiarity with California Division of Oil, Gas, and Geothermal Resources (CalGEM) regulations and state-specific compliance requirements.
  • Experience operating within California's regulatory environment, including environmental, safety, and permitting requirements applicable to onshore drilling operations.
  • Highly numerate and possess good oral and written communication skills.
  • Computer literate and capable of learning Company approved spreadsheet and word processing programs.
  • Prior experience/exposure using Wellview software.
Preferred Qualifications
  • San Joaquin Valley (SJV) drilling experience strongly preferred; familiarity with Bakersfield-area operations and local regulatory agencies a plus.
  • Prior experience with major integrated oil company operations in California (e.g., legacy Exxon, Sable, or similar operators).