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Drilling Rig Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Western Energy Services

Drilling Rig Personnel

Williston, ND · On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

We are looking for experienced drilling rig personnel to work on rig located near Williston, North ... This site is not operated by Western Energy or any of its associated companies. By proceeding, you ...

City of Los Angeles

Drill Rig Operator

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$76.98K - $112.52K/yr

Drilling methods employed include bucket auger, flight auger, hollow-stem auger, and rotary wash ... Drill Rig Operator - Exempt (GSD) Applicants may include a resume in addition to the required City ...

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How much do drilling rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 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 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 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 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 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.

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Drilling Rig Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drilling Rig Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 50% Physical, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,259 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Bore Rig Operator

Davis H Elliot Company, Inc.

Fort Smith, AR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

For over seven decades investor-owned utilities, municipalities, cooperatives, and others have entrusted their electrical construction and maintenance needs to Davis H. Elliot Company, Inc. (Elliot).
Elliot is a full-service electrical contractor specializing in overhead and underground distribution, transmission, substations, lighting, traffic signaling, utility locating and industrial/commercial services.
Job Description
The Bore Rig Operator requires experience with directional drilling or locating equipment on a drill rig for longer than six months, operating excavating equipment, drilling various types of soil - including rock, handling various types of pipe and PVC, and maintaining customer standards for installation no matter the circumstances. The Bore Rig Operator will also be expected to hand dig in various situations - including across located utilities, in highly congested areas, or in areas where equipment cannot access. They will also need to have knowledge of using a Vactron, and mixing bore mud products, or be willing to learn.
Qualifications
  • Experience with directional bore rigs and locating
  • Ability to effectively lead a crew
  • Willing to travel when necessary
  • Must have, or be eligible to obtain, a Class A CDL

Benefits/Culture
Today, we are listed among Engineering News-Records Top 150 Specialty Contracting firms. Our success is based on our customers' confidence in us; the loyalty, hard work and performance of our people; and the traditions with which Mr. Davis H. Elliot began the company in 1946. We understand that having the best team requires people being treated like family. Some of the benefits we offer our team includes:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
  • Short-Term Disability and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance w/ additional Voluntary Life Insurance
  • 401K w/ company match
  • Employee Stock Ownership Program
  • State and Federally accredited Lineman Apprenticeship program
  • Paid Vacation
  • Servant Leadership Training
  • Uniforms and PPE provided

Accessibility: If you need an accommodation as part of the employment process please contact Human Resources at
Phone: 859-263-5148 x1504Email: clester@dhec.com
Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.
If you want to view the Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal poster, click HERE
If you want to view the Pay Transparency Policy Statement, please click the link: English

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