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Drilling Rig Operator Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Driller

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$22 - $29.75/hr

Operating Geoprobe unit for the collection of soil and Cone Penetrometer (CPT) data * Locating ... rig and support truck maintenance- Reporting all repair and maintenance issues to the Drilling ...

Driller

Atlanta, GA

$22 - $29.75/hr

Operating Geoprobe unit for the collection of soil and Cone Penetrometer (CPT) data * Locating ... rig and support truck maintenance- Reporting all repair and maintenance issues to the Drilling ...

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Drilling Rig Operator information

See Georgia salary details

$12

$23

$36

How much do drilling rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling rig operator in Georgia is $23.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.65 and $25.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Drilling Rig Operators, and how can they be managed effectively on the job?

Drilling Rig Operators often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, equipment malfunctions, and strict safety regulations. Managing these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and effective communication with the team. Staying vigilant about safety procedures and participating in regular maintenance checks can help prevent accidents and downtime. Additionally, collaborating closely with engineers, geologists, and other crew members is essential for ensuring efficient and safe drilling operations.

What is the difference between Drilling Rig Operator vs Derrickhand?

AspectDrilling Rig OperatorDerrickhand
CertificationsOSHA safety training, CDL often preferredOSHA safety training, basic rigging and safety certifications
Work EnvironmentOn drilling rigs, operating machineryOn drilling rigs, managing mud systems and equipment
Job ResponsibilitiesOperating drilling equipment, monitoring drilling processHandling drilling mud, maintaining equipment in the derrick

Drilling Rig Operators and Derrickhands both work on drilling rigs and require safety certifications. While Drilling Rig Operators focus on operating the drilling machinery, Derrickhands primarily manage mud systems and assist with equipment maintenance. Both roles are essential in the drilling process and share similar work environments, but their specific responsibilities differ.

How much does a drill rig operator make?

A drill rig operator typically earns between $45,000 and $75,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the drilling operations. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in heavy equipment or oil and gas industries tend to earn higher wages.

What does a Drilling Rig Operator do?

A Drilling Rig Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining the machinery used to drill holes for oil, gas, or other materials underground. They oversee the drilling process, monitor equipment performance, and ensure safety protocols are followed on the drilling site. Drilling Rig Operators also troubleshoot issues, coordinate with team members, and keep detailed records of drilling operations. Their work is vital for the energy industry and requires physical stamina, technical knowledge, and attention to safety.

Is it hard to get hired at an oil rig?

Getting hired as a drilling rig operator can be competitive and typically requires relevant experience, technical skills, and safety certifications. Employers often look for candidates with a strong work ethic, physical fitness, and the ability to work in challenging environments, with training provided on-site or through specialized programs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drilling Rig Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drilling Rig Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, a solid understanding of drilling processes, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with on-the-job training or industry certifications. Familiarity with drilling equipment, safety protocols, and control systems like SCADA is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies are vital for operating complex machinery safely, minimizing downtime, and maintaining productivity in demanding field environments.

What is the highest paying oil rig job?

The highest paying oil rig jobs are typically specialized roles such as drilling engineers, toolpushers, and offshore installation managers, who oversee drilling operations and safety. These positions often require extensive experience, technical skills, and certifications, and can earn six-figure salaries due to the demanding environment and responsibility involved.

How much money can you make on a drill rig?

Drilling rig operators typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, with experienced workers or those in high-demand regions earning higher wages. Overtime, certifications, and working in remote locations can increase earnings, and some operators may earn additional bonuses or benefits.
What are popular job titles related to Drilling Rig Operator jobs in Georgia? For Drilling Rig Operator jobs in Georgia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Geotechnical and Environmental Drill Rig Operator

Geotechnical and Environmental Drill Rig Operator

United Consulting Group, ltd.

Norcross, GA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Description:

Arc One Services LLC is actively hiring an experienced Drill Rig Operator with 2-3 years of experience operating drill rigs used in the Geotechnical and Environmental engineering field.

The applicant must have documented experience operating drill rigs such as Diedrich, CME, and Geoprobe, with OSHA 10hr or greater certificates and First Aid & Safety training. Applicants must have experience utilizing the drill rigs for rock coring, mud rotary drilling, casing advancement, auger boring, SPT sampling and Environmental drilling. Experience with borehole grouting, inclinometer installation, dual rotary drill heads, and tooling setups, is preferred.

More experienced applicants will have two or more years of experience in the safe and efficient operation of skid steers, all-terrain forklifts, dozers, hydraulic excavators, concrete mixers & pumps, and wheeled front-end loaders, along with basic mechanic skills used to troubleshoot and repair equipment.

Requirements:

Responsibilities:

Applicants are expected to perform the following duties and responsibilities:

• Operate, inspect, and maintain equipment to manufacturers specifications.

• Lead and coordinate drilling operations and supervise crew members.

• Rigging, hoisting, and spotting for equipment movement according to written, verbal, and/or signaled instructions.

• Troubleshoot mechanical issues quickly and efficiently with the analytical ability to find solutions to challenging technical problems.

• Complete all job-related duties as instructed by supervisor.

• Maintain safe working conditions and adhere to Occupational Health and Safety regulations.

• Tending and operating cement and concrete mixers, air compressors, generators, pumps, and many other types of power equipment may also be required.

In addition to operating heavy equipment, applicants will be expected to perform basic labor tasks. These labor tasks require extensive physical activity, including digging ditches and trenches with shovels and picks, backfilling excavations, lubricating and cleaning equipment, organizing construction materials and supplies, cleaning and preparing construction sites to eliminate rubble, debris, and any other hazards, along with many other physical tasks required on typical construction sites. The applicant may also be expected to safely operate hand and power tools of all types, including jackhammers, drills, saws, grinders, concrete mixers, pneumatic tampers, chainsaws, lawnmowers, etc.


Qualifications:

• Hands-on experience as Drill Rig Operator in the construction industry.

• Self-motivated, willing to travel and available to work 7-days a week.

• Ability to work in a team environment with interpersonal communication skills.

• Ability to perform physical labor and very heavy work involving lifting objects weighing more than 100 pounds at a time with frequent lifting or carrying of objects weighing 50 pounds or more; to include frequent bending, kneeling, and lifting.

• Comfortable working outdoors in high-stress environments with extreme weather fluctuations.

• Ability to work in confined and cluttered spaces.

• Capable of climbing and keeping balance on uneven areas.

• Valid driver license is required, CDL Class A or B license is highly preferred.

• Prior OSHA, First Aid, and/or Safety Training preferred.


Compensation:

• Base salary range based on the experience and qualifications of the individual.

• Employees are paid bi-weekly (every other Friday), and all new employees are required to sign up for automatic paycheck deposits.

• Employee Benefits:

o Holiday benefit – Ten company-paid holidays per year

o Paid time off benefit

o Emergency sick leaves

o Medical and dental insurance

o Life, Short and Long-term Disability Insurance Benefits

o 401(k) Retirement plans

o Employee Assistance Program – MET Life & FEI

o Company cell phones are provided.

ARC One Services LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage qualified women, minorities, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and others to apply.

ARC One Services LLC operates in a healthy and drug-free environment.