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Drilling Rig Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Micropile Driller

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$28 - $38/hr

Experience operating a small diameter drill such as Commachio; experience with tie backs, shotcrete, lagging walls helpful Special Skills: Drill rig experience/knowledge, concrete knowledge ...

Job Summary The Directional Drill Operator/Locator is responsible for safely operating the ... Operate the drill rig efficiently. Prepare job and drill so that the shot can be performed safely.

Position : Drill Operator Pay rate : $28.00/hr- $38.00/hr (Based on experience) Travel : Yes ... Supervision of drill rig helpers to tool or mix grout * Develop a full understanding of the Wagman ...

Technician 2

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$22.75 - $28/hr

Experience * 1-2 years of experience operating Ditch Witch AT40 drill rig * Experience with Ditch Witch, Vermeer, or similar directional drilling equipment preferred. Skills & Competencies * Strong ...

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Drilling Rig Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$14

$27

$42

How much do drilling rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling rig operator in Virginia is $27.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.92 and $29.81 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.

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.

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 are popular job titles related to Drilling Rig Operator jobs in Virginia? For Drilling Rig Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

UGE Directional Drill Operator

MasTec Utility Services

Chesapeake, VA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Overview

Company Summary

MasTec Utility Servicesย delivers critical infrastructure construction and engineering services for power delivery, gas, and water customers, specializing in overhead and underground electric distribution for power delivery systems, gas distribution construction for gas systems, and turnkey solutions for a variety of water, sewer, and civil infrastructure projects. Backed by the strength of decades of experience, unrivaled industry skills, and a deep commitment to core values, MUS delivers safe, innovative, and environmentally responsible services that provide extraordinary value to clients.

MasTec Utility Services is a purpose-driven company. Our core values guide our strategy, performance, and culture. We believe in maintaining an environment where team members can make an impact, grow, and thrive. A place where they find meaning and purpose in doing the important work of ensuring communities have the vital energy, light, and communications to prosper. Our culture is inclusive and welcoming. Our teams are empowered with abundant training, tools, and opportunities to follow their curiosity and ambitions. Everyone has an equal chance to advance. Everyone is supported, respected, and challenged to be their best. Weโ€™re always looking for talented and dedicated people to join us and love where they work.

MasTec Utility Services is a proud subsidiary of MasTec (NYSE: MTZ), a Fortune 500 Company ranked by Energy News-Record as one of the leading contractors in the country. MUS is part of the MasTec Power Delivery segment. We are certified as a minority-controlled company by the National Minority Suppliers Development Council (NMSDC). Our rich diversity of people and ideas makes us a stronger, more innovative organization.

Job Summary

The Directional Drill Operator/Locator is responsible for safely operating the directional drill to place product underground then locate the drill head to understand elevation changes and make decisions on depths to drill at to avoid hitting underground utilities. This position supports the Line team and works with personnel within the department.ย 


Responsibilities
  • Operate the drill rig efficiently. Prepare job and drill so that the shot can be performed safely.
  • Pothole all utilities that will either be paralleled or crossed during the bore shot.
  • Verify existing utilities.
  • Fill water tanks with water.
  • Combine water with chemicals for boring according to the ground you are drilling in.
  • Locate the drill head from point A to point B without hitting any utilities at the correct depth.
  • Hook up swivel, reamer, and pipe product that will be pulled back to complete the bore shot.
  • Before the bore shot is started, walk out bore shot to ensure all utilities have been located and develop a plan for going above or below each utility or obstacle in the bore path.
  • Pull back the product with the correct hole opener and utilize the correct mud mixture to ensure that the product makes it from point B to point A.
  • Inspect and maintain job equipment, including drill equipment and mixing unit.

Qualifications

Minimum

  • High school diploma, or equivalent.
  • 1 year of relevant experience.
  • Valid CDL Class A driver's license with tanker endorsement.
  • OSHA 10 Certification.

Preferred

  • 3 or more years of experience.

Physical Demands and Work Environmentย 

This job operates in a field environment. This role routinely requires extended periods of bending, squatting, climbing, kneeling, pushing, pulling, lifting, lifting in awkward positions, standing, and twisting. Also, working in inclement weather conditions, such as extreme heat, extreme cold, rain, ice, snow, and wind.ย ย 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. This position is physically active, with lifting required. Must be able to bend and lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Clarity of vision at 20 feet or more or 20 inches or less, with the ability to judge distance and space relationships. Precise hand-eye coordination. Ability to identify and distinguish colors.ย 

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. The Company reserves the right to revise or change the job duties as the need arises. Management reserves the right to change the description, duties, or work schedules to accommodate individuals with disabilities.ย ย 

Benefits available include Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability and Life insurance, a 401k plan and Employee Stock Purchase plan. MasTec is a publicly traded company MTZ (NYSE).ย 

Equal Employment Opportunity:ย 

The Companyโ€™s policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, gender, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable law and EEOC regulations. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories.ย ย 

Qualifications:

Minimum

  • High school diploma, or equivalent.
  • 1 year of relevant experience.
  • Valid CDL Class A driver's license with tanker endorsement.
  • OSHA 10 Certification.

Preferred

  • 3 or more years of experience.

Physical Demands and Work Environmentย 

This job operates in a field environment. This role routinely requires extended periods of bending, squatting, climbing, kneeling, pushing, pulling, lifting, lifting in awkward positions, standing, and twisting. Also, working in inclement weather conditions, such as extreme heat, extreme cold, rain, ice, snow, and wind.ย ย 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. This position is physically active, with lifting required. Must be able to bend and lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Clarity of vision at 20 feet or more or 20 inches or less, with the ability to judge distance and space relationships. Precise hand-eye coordination. Ability to identify and distinguish colors.ย 

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. The Company reserves the right to revise or change the job duties as the need arises. Management reserves the right to change the description, duties, or work schedules to accommodate individuals with disabilities.ย ย 

Benefits available include Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability and Life insurance, a 401k plan and Employee Stock Purchase plan. MasTec is a publicly traded company MTZ (NYSE).ย 

Equal Employment Opportunity:ย 

The Companyโ€™s policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, gender, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable law and EEOC regulations. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories.ย ย 

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME