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Drilling Rig Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Noble Drilling Services Inc.

Flag Crane Operator during lifts, install tag lines to prevent accidents, interferences and/or damage. Assist in maintaining the general appearance of the drilling rig. Maintain the paint locker neat ...

Maxsim Traffic Logistics

Bore Rig Operator

Acampo, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

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 ...

Dyno Nobel

Driller / Drill Operator

Corona, CA · On-site

$19/hr

Job Brief Operate applicable drill equipment in a safe, reliable, timely and professional manner. Assist the operator in the safe operation of the drill rig and drill truck. The pay for this role is ...

Dyno Nobel

Drill Operator

Victorville, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Job Brief Operate applicable drill equipment in a safe, reliable, timely and professional manner. Assist the operator in the safe operation of the drill rig and drill truck. The pay for this role is ...

Dyno Nobel

Driller / Drill Operator

Corona, CA

$19/hr

... drill rig and drill truck including cleaning, maintenance, and repairs. Train with trainer to ... Prepare and maintain all records and reports concerning drilling activities, including safety, in ...

Dyno Nobel

Drill Operator

Victorville, CA

$25 - $30/hr

... drill rig and drill truck including cleaning, maintenance, and repairs. Train with trainer to ... Prepare and maintain all records and reports concerning drilling activities, including safety, in ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member V

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 boreholes to all depths required in their region.

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member III

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 boreholes to all depths required in their region.

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member IV

Lodi, CA · On-site

$33 - $46/hr

Operate a geotechnical drill rig to advance boreholes to all depths required in their region. * Lead a 2 or 3 man drill crew and support their development in all tasks associated with drilling ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member IV

Lodi, CA · On-site

$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 boreholes to all depths required in their region.

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

Regional Drilling Licensure * The employee will be expected to perform the following tasks: * Operate a geotechnical drill rig to advance shallow boreholes in soil. * Oversee a 2-man drill crew in ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member V

Lodi, CA · On-site

$34.25 - $53/hr

ETMs will perform daily tasks including: survey and locate drilling points; conduct site ... Operate a geotechnical drill rig to advance boreholes to all depths required in their region.

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member III

Lodi, CA · On-site

$27.75 - $38.75/hr

ETMs will perform daily tasks including: survey and locate drilling points; conduct site ... Operate a geotechnical drill rig to advance boreholes to all depths required in their region.

Schnabel

Geotechnical Driller

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$63.46 - $70/hr

Record drilling parameters, production data, and daily progress reports, while maintaining open and ... Current certification for vertical and/or tieback drill rig or willing to obtain certification.

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All JobsDrilling Rig JobsDrilling Rig Jobs in California

Drilling Rig information

See California salary details

$14

$27

$42

How much do drilling rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling rig in California is $27.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.83 and $29.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you get hired on an oil rig?

To get hired as a drilling rig worker, candidates typically need relevant experience, such as in construction or mechanical work, and often must complete safety training and certifications like H2S or BOSIET. Employers also look for physical fitness and the ability to work in challenging environments, with many positions requiring a high school diploma or equivalent. Applying through staffing agencies or directly to oil companies and demonstrating a strong work ethic can improve chances of employment.

What is a drilling rig?

A drilling rig is a complex machine used to create holes in the ground, most commonly for the exploration and extraction of oil, natural gas, or water. These rigs can be massive structures used offshore or smaller, mobile units for land-based drilling. Drilling rigs are equipped with specialized equipment to drill, circulate drilling fluids, and handle extracted materials. The type of rig used depends on the location, depth, and purpose of the drilling operation.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

Drilling rig jobs, such as senior drillers or specialized offshore drilling personnel, can pay around $2,000 or more per day due to the demanding environment, technical skills, and certifications required. These high-paying roles often involve extensive experience, safety training, and working in remote or offshore locations on long shifts.

How much do you get paid on oil rigs?

Drilling rig workers typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, role, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while specialized roles like drillers or supervisors can earn higher salaries, often supplemented with overtime and benefits.

What is the difference between Drilling Rig vs Drilling Operator?

AspectDrilling RigDrilling Operator
CredentialsCertifications in equipment operation, safety trainingSame certifications, plus operational training
Work EnvironmentOn-site at drilling locations, heavy machineryOn-site, operating drilling equipment
Industry UsageUsed to describe the equipment and infrastructureRefers to the personnel operating the equipment

The drilling rig is the large structure used to drill wells, while the drilling operator is the worker who operates the rig. Both roles require similar certifications and work in the same environment, but the rig refers to the equipment, and the operator refers to the personnel managing it.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working on a drilling rig, and how can they be managed?

Professionals working on a drilling rig often encounter challenges such as long shifts, physically demanding tasks, and exposure to harsh weather conditions. Teamwork is essential, as safety depends on clear communication and collaboration among crew members. Adapting quickly to changing situations and following strict safety protocols helps manage risks and ensures smooth operations. Regular training and support from experienced colleagues also play a key role in overcoming these challenges and fostering a safe, productive work environment.

What Are Drilling Rig Jobs?

Six positions on an oil rig crew run the operations of both onshore and offshore drilling rigs. As the rig manager, you are in charge of the company's interests. You oversee all personnel and operations and report program progress to your superiors. As a driller, you monitor drilling procedures and ensure that all other personnel follows safety and efficiency protocol. As a derrickhand, you maintain and repair the circulating system equipment. Your duties as a leasehand include setting up and taking down the drilling equipment and keeping an organized work environment. The floorhand's responsibilities include manipulating pipe sections and drill stems. Finally, as the motorhand, you operate the diesel and electric engines that keep the rig running.

What is the highest paid oil rig job?

The highest paid oil rig jobs are typically senior drilling engineers, toolpushers, and rig managers, with salaries often exceeding $150,000 annually. These roles require extensive experience, specialized skills, and often involve working long shifts in challenging environments. Compensation can vary based on location, company, and level of expertise.

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 strong mechanical aptitude, knowledge of drilling operations, and relevant certifications such as Well Control or IADC Rig Pass. Familiarity with drilling equipment, safety systems, and industry-standard software like drilling data acquisition systems is essential. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for safe and efficient operations. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure operational safety, minimize downtime, and maintain productivity in demanding environments.
More about Drilling Rig jobs
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 jobs in California? For Drilling Rig jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drilling Rig jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Drilling Rig jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Drilling Rig jobs? Cities in California with the most Drilling Rig job openings:
Drilling Rig jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drilling Rig job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,509 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Roustabout

Noble Drilling Services Inc.

Full-time

Posted 21 hours ago

Job description

Work under the direction of the Crane Operator as necessary to support on-going rig operations. Assist in handling freight to or from helicopters and boats. Implement and uphold safety and environmental compliance requirements. Perform general house-keeping duties and material preservation activities. Assist other personnel as directed.

QUALIFICATIONS

High School Diploma or equivalent

Completion of Roustabout Training Course

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Safely and efficiently perform all duties assigned by the Crane Operator during deck / maintenance operations.

Ensure all operations are proceeding in a safe manner, and responsible for correcting or notifying responsible persons of any unsafe acts and/or conditions which exist.

Attend and participate in pre-tour, post tour, and special operations and weekly safety meetings.

Assist in rig maintenance such as chipping, scraping, painting, scrubbing, and cleaning.

Assist in keeping the deck of the rig free of all unnecessary tools and equipment.

Relieve on the drill floor as required in order to gain experience for promotion.

Assist the Crane Operator with the loading and unloading of supplies.

Flag Crane Operator during lifts, install tag lines to prevent accidents, interferences and/or damage.

Assist in maintaining the general appearance of the drilling rig.

Maintain the paint locker neat and orderly, ensure that all containers are sealed, and all combustible materials are properly stored.

Be familiar with company paint specifications and procedures for use and care.

Participate in the development of newly appointed crew members.

Participate in company approved and recommended training both onshore and offshore.

Assist the Helicopter Landing Officer during helideck operations.

Assist the Welder as needed.

Reports to: Crane Operator

Direct Supervision

None

Indirect Supervision

None

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