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Drilling Rig Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MasTec

Drill Rig Operator

San Diego, CA

... Drill Rig Operator to support multiple paving operations on projects throughout the Southwest ... heavy drilling machinery ensuring safe and effective drilling operations. • Perform routine ...

MasTec

Drill Rig Operator

San Diego, CA · On-site

... Drill Rig Operator to support multiple paving operations on projects throughout the Southwest ... heavy drilling machinery ensuring safe and effective drilling operations. • Perform routine ...

Hydro Resources Holding

Drill Rig Operator

Sunray, TX · On-site

Drill Rig Operator Summary: Driller (CDL required) for irrigation, commercial, industrial, and ... Operate drilling rig and associated equipment to drill commercial and industrial water wells ...

MasTec

Drill Rig Operator

San Diego, CA · On-site

... Drill Rig Operator to support multiple paving operations on projects throughout the Southwest ... heavy drilling machinery ensuring safe and effective drilling operations. • Perform routine ...

MasTec

Drill Rig Operator

Yuma, AZ

... Drill Rig Operator to support multiple paving operations on projects throughout the Southwest ... heavy drilling machinery ensuring safe and effective drilling operations. • Perform routine ...

MasTec

Drill Rig Operator

San Diego, CA · On-site

... Drill Rig Operator to support multiple paving operations on projects throughout the Southwest ... heavy drilling machinery ensuring safe and effective drilling operations. • Perform routine ...

MasTec

Drill Rig Operator

San Diego, CA · On-site

... Drill Rig Operator to support multiple paving operations on projects throughout the Southwest ... Responsibilities • Operate heavy drilling machinery ensuring safe and effective drilling ...

MasTec

Drill Rig Operator

San Diego, CA

Responsibilities Operate heavy drilling machinery ensuring safe and effective drilling operations ... Drill rig operator will operate drill rigs and required to assist blast crew with loading blast ...

HireNow Staffing

Foundation Rig Operator

Elk River, MN · On-site

$50K - $95K/yr

Foundation Drill Rig Operator Company: HireNow StaffingHireNow Staffing is actively recruiting a seasoned, highly skilled Foundation Drill Rig Operator to join one of our valued client partners. We ...

MasTec

Drill Rig Operator

Yuma, AZ

Responsibilities Operate heavy drilling machinery ensuring safe and effective drilling operations ... Drill rig operator will operate drill rigs and required to assist blast crew with loading blast ...

MasTec

Drill Rig Operator

Yuma, AZ · On-site

... Drill Rig Operator to support multiple paving operations on projects throughout the Southwest ... heavy drilling machinery ensuring safe and effective drilling operations. • Perform routine ...

MasTec

Drill Rig Operator

Yuma, AZ · On-site

... Drill Rig Operator to support multiple paving operations on projects throughout the Southwest ... Responsibilities • Operate heavy drilling machinery ensuring safe and effective drilling ...

Appalachian Drilling Company LLC

Be Seen First

Vertical Drill Rig Operator

China Grove, NC · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Appalachian Drilling Company is seeking a highly skilled and safety-focused Drill Rig Operator to join our deep foundations team. In this role, you will be responsible for operating heavy rotary ...

Advatix, Inc.

FOUNDATION DRILL RIG OPERATOR

Elk River, MN · On-site

$50K - $90K/yr

FOUNDATION DRILL RIG OPERATOR Client : Confidential Client (Construction) | Location : Elk River, Minnesota (Onsite) Compensation : $50,000 - $90,000 Qualifications: Actual drill rig operation ...

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Drilling Rig Operator information

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How much do drilling rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling rig operator in the United States is $27.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.12 and $30.05 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.

How do I become a drill rig operator?

To become a drill rig operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or an apprenticeship to learn operating procedures and safety protocols. Many employers also require certification in crane or heavy equipment operation and familiarity with tools and machinery used in 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.

How much money do oil rig operators make?

Oil rig operators typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, with experienced workers and those working offshore or in high-demand areas earning higher wages. Compensation often includes overtime pay, shift differentials, and benefits due to the demanding work environment and specialized skills required.

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.

How much does a drill rig operator earn?

A drill rig operator typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment operated. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in hazardous environments may earn higher wages and additional benefits.

How much do drilling rigs make?

Drilling rig operators typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment. Overtime, certifications, and working in remote or offshore environments can increase earnings.
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Drilling Rig Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drilling Rig Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,259 per year, or $27.5 per hour.
Drill Rig Operator

Drill Rig Operator

MasTec

San Diego, CA

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

MasTec rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 153 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 80 rated construction

Job description

FNF Construction, Inc., a leading heavy civil general contractor serving the Southwestern United States, is seeking an experienced Drill Rig Operator to support multiple paving operations on projects throughout the Southwest. Successful candidates must pass an ATF background check and be willing to travel. This is a safety sensitive position.

Company Overview

FNF Construction, Inc., a MasTec Clean Energy & Infrastructure (CE&I) company, has delivered high-quality construction services since 1984. Specializing in heavy highway construction and general engineering, we operate primarily throughout the Southwest as a general contractor, subcontractor, and producer of aggregate and asphaltic concrete. Our collaborative, partnership-driven approach has built long-standing relationships with both public and private clients across projects of varying size and complexity.

• Operate heavy drilling machinery ensuring safe and effective drilling operations.
• Perform routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs on drilling equipment.
• Monitor drilling parameters, adjust operations as needed, and record accurate data for reporting.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards at all times.
• Communicate effectively with team members and supervisors to coordinate operations.

• Minimum 3 years experience operating drill rigs.
• Experience operating Sandvik 700-800 top hammer drill rigs.
• Must be able to work out of town/state.
• Able to pass an ATF background check.
• Able to operate company pickup.
• Able to lift 50+ pounds for length of work shift.
• Operators are expected to operate and maintain the drill rig.
• Some mechanical experience repairing Sandvik drills.
• Drill rig operator will operate drill rigs and required to assist blast crew with loading blast holes.

Qualifications:

• Minimum 3 years experience operating drill rigs.
• Experience operating Sandvik 700-800 top hammer drill rigs.
• Must be able to work out of town/state.
• Able to pass an ATF background check.
• Able to operate company pickup.
• Able to lift 50+ pounds for length of work shift.
• Operators are expected to operate and maintain the drill rig.
• Some mechanical experience repairing Sandvik drills.
• Drill rig operator will operate drill rigs and required to assist blast crew with loading blast holes.

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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