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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 ...

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

$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 IV

Lodi, CA · On-site

$33 - $46/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

$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 · On-site

$34.25 - $53/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

$27.75 - $38.75/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 II

Lodi, CA · On-site

$24.50 - $34.50/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 II

Lodi, CA

$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 ...

Schnabel

Geotechnical Driller

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$63.46 - $70/hr

As a driller you will work with your project manager and field supervisor to install tieback ... Current certification for vertical and/or tieback drill rig or willing to obtain certification.

Schnabel

Geotechnical Driller

Walnut Creek, CA

As a driller you will work with your project manager and field supervisor to install tieback ... Current certification for vertical and/or tieback drill rig or willing to obtain certification.

Schnabel

Geotechnical Driller

Walnut Creek, CA

$63.46 - $70/hr

As a driller you will work with your project manager and field supervisor to install tieback ... Current certification for vertical and/or tieback drill rig or willing to obtain certification.

BC2 Environmental

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Driller's Assistant / Helper with CDL

Orange, CA · On-site

$22 - $35/hr

... license to drive rig or support truck to the jobsite. · Ability to lift at least 50 pounds ... and operations managers. · Perform physical labor: shoveling, drilling debris, transport sand ...

Cascade Drilling, LP

Mechanic

Upland, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

... Manager, if necessary, for completing the repair * Repair and maintain all drill rigs, trucks ... Responsible for keeping rig and equipment in good working order and condition * Document exceptions ...

Cascade Drilling, LP

Mechanic

West Sacramento, CA

$25 - $35/hr

... Manager, if necessary, for completing the repair * Repair and maintain all drill rigs, trucks ... Responsible for keeping rig and equipment in good working order and condition * Document exceptions ...

Cascade Drilling, LP

Mechanic

West Sacramento, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

... Manager, if necessary, for completing the repair * Repair and maintain all drill rigs, trucks ... Responsible for keeping rig and equipment in good working order and condition * Document exceptions ...

Cascade Drilling, LP

Mechanic

Upland, CA

$25 - $35/hr

... Manager, if necessary, for completing the repair * Repair and maintain all drill rigs, trucks ... Responsible for keeping rig and equipment in good working order and condition * Document exceptions ...

Cascade Drilling, LP

Mechanic

Richmond, CA

$25 - $35/hr

... Manager, if necessary, for completing the repair * Repair and maintain all drill rigs, trucks ... Responsible for keeping rig and equipment in good working order and condition * Document exceptions ...

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All JobsDrilling Rig Manager JobsDrilling Rig Manager Jobs in California

Drilling Rig Manager information

See California salary details

$14

$24

$34

How much do drilling rig manager jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 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.

What is the highest paying manager position?

In the drilling industry, the highest paying manager position is typically the Drilling Operations Manager or Senior Drilling Manager, overseeing multiple rigs and large teams. These roles often require extensive experience, technical knowledge, and certifications, and they can earn significantly higher salaries compared to other managerial positions in the field.

How much do oil rig managers make?

Oil rig managers, also known as drilling or rig supervisors, typically earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the drilling operations. Senior managers or those working in high-demand regions can earn higher salaries, often supplemented with overtime and benefits.

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.

How to become an oil rig manager?

To become an oil rig manager, candidates typically need extensive experience in drilling operations, often starting as a roustabout or roughneck, and progressing through roles such as driller or toolpusher. Relevant certifications like Well Control or HSE training, strong leadership skills, and knowledge of safety protocols are essential for advancement to management positions.

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.

What is the highest paid position on an oil rig?

On an oil rig, the highest paid position is typically the Drilling Rig Manager or Toolpusher, who oversees drilling operations and manages personnel. These roles require extensive experience, certifications, and leadership skills, and they often command the highest salaries among rig personnel due to their responsibility level and expertise.
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

Bore Rig Operator

Maxsim Traffic Logistics

Acampo, CA • On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

A bore rig operator's duties include

safely operating and maintaining drilling equipment to create deep, narrow holes for various purposes, including utility installation, water wells, and resource extraction. They work as part of a crew and must follow detailed project plans and strict safety protocols.

Pre-drilling duties

  • Site preparation: Before drilling, the operator is responsible for positioning the rig and associated equipment, such as mud pumps and generators, at the correct location. In directional drilling, they must first verify the bore path and mark all existing underground utilities to avoid accidental damage.
  • Inspections and checks: The operator conducts pre-operation inspections to ensure all equipment is in working order. This includes verifying that all safety systems and support equipment are functioning properly.
  • Fluid mixing: Depending on the type of drilling, the operator may need to mix drilling fluids or "mud" by adding clay and chemicals to water to achieve the right consistency.

Operation duties

  • Equipment operation: The operator skillfully uses levers and controls to manage the drill's speed, pressure, and direction. They monitor gauges to ensure the machine operates within safe and optimal parameters.
  • Collaboration: They work with a crew and may direct their activities, such as connecting drill pipes and assembling rig components.
  • Sampling and analysis: In water well or geotechnical drilling, the operator may collect and log core samples to determine the nature of the rock and soil strata being drilled.
  • Problem-solving: The operator must troubleshoot issues during drilling, including addressing geological obstacles and retrieving lost or broken bits and pipes.
  • Directional steering: For directional boring projects, the operator uses specialized equipment to precisely guide the drill head along the planned underground path.

Post-drilling and maintenance duties

  • Data recording: The operator is responsible for maintaining accurate records of the drilling process, including footage drilled, materials used, and geological data.
  • Equipment maintenance: Regular and preventative maintenance is a key duty. This includes cleaning, greasing, and repairing equipment to ensure it performs correctly.
  • Well completion: For water wells, the operator installs the well casing, necessary hardware, and the pump to prepare the well for use.
  • Site cleanup: After the job is complete, the operator and crew clean and restore the site, which may include plugging observation wells.