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Drilling Rig Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Resource Geologist

Cedar City, UT · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Drill Rig Supervisor: Take charge of drill rig supervision, QAQC tasks, sample processing, and data management during drilling programs. * Mapping expert: Keep all open pit and potential underground ...

Safety & Training Clerk

Salt Lake City, UT

$15 - $18.50/hr

... Major Drilling is looking for a self-motivated and organized Safety and Training Clerk for our ... rig. Send out to the field with other required binders and work area examination books. • ...

Sonic Driller

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

... rig and general working area. A successful candidate must have a strong desire to learn, an ... Operate drilling and testing equipment, assisting drilling and testing operations, conducting basic ...

Sonic Driller

Salt Lake City, UT

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

... rig and general working area. A successful candidate must have a strong desire to learn, an ... The successful candidate will be proud to safely complete high quality drilling projects. ROLES ...

... rig and general working area. A successful candidate must have a strong desire to learn, an ... The successful candidate will be proud to safely complete high quality drilling projects. ROLES ...

Knowledge of drilling rigs and equipment preferred. In addition, flexibility with the ability to ... Responsible for keeping rig and equipment in good working order and condition * Document exceptions ...

Knowledge of drilling rigs and equipment preferred. In addition, flexibility with the ability to ... Responsible for keeping rig and equipment in good working order and condition * Document exceptions ...

Mechanic

West Jordan, UT · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Knowledge of drilling rigs and equipment preferred. In addition, flexibility with the ability to ... Responsible for keeping rig and equipment in good working order and condition * Document exceptions ...

... rig and general working area while abiding by all safety regulations. A successful candidate must ... Set up and operate mud rotary drilling and auger equipment, sampling systems, geophysical ...

Mud Rotary & Auger (Driller)

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

... rig and general working area while abiding by all safety regulations. A successful candidate must ... Set up and operate mud rotary drilling and auger equipment, sampling systems, geophysical ...

Field experience working on a drill rig; mining or exploration core facility (highly desirable) * Understanding of handling and logging core samples (desirable) * Excellent customer service ...

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Drilling Rig information

See Utah salary details

$13

$25

$39

How much do drilling rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling rig in Utah is $25.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $27.36 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Drilling Rig jobs in Utah? The most popular types of Drilling Rig jobs in Utah are:
What are popular job titles related to Drilling Rig jobs in Utah? For Drilling Rig jobs in Utah, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Utah are hiring for Drilling Rig jobs? Cities in Utah with the most Drilling Rig job openings:
Infographic showing various Drilling Rig job openings in Utah as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,127 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

US Underground Driller Assistant

Major Drilling

Salt Lake City, UT

$71K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Major Drilling rating

3.7

Company rating: 3.7 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 30 rated mining


Job description

Job Title: US Underground Driller Assistant

Job Summary:

The Underground Driller Assistant is responsible for supporting underground and surface drilling operations while ensuring safety compliance, equipment maintenance, sample integrity, and operational efficiency. The role requires adherence to MSHA regulations, company policies, and site-specific procedures.

Duties:

  • Conduct yourself professionally and represent MD with integrity.
  • Be fit for duty and punctual for all shifts.
  • Perform pre-shift inspections on UG mobile equipment and drill station tools using Intelex.
  • Follow correct procedures for Brassing In/Out, Lock Out Tag Out Try Out (LOTOTO), and hazard reporting (incidents, near misses, safety hazards).
  • Participate in and conduct site inductions and safety shares.
  • Provide site inductions to visitors and ensure adherence to safety and operational standards.
  • Perform Take 5 assessments before tasks and understand Stop Work Authority.
  • Conduct PMs and pre-shift checks on drill equipment, mud tanks, mud mixers, pumps, and fire suppression systems.
  • Rebuild and maintain latch heads, water swivels, and support equipment.
  • Replace valve seats, gaskets, and conduct continuity tests.
  • Assist with rig audits and tool inventory.
  • Operate and maintain crew vehicles, forklifts, and other heavy equipment.
  • Use orientation tools, survey tools, and assist in surveying operations.
  • Assist in drill rig setup, movement, and station maintenance.
  • Set up drill for AZI and DIP, maintain water swivels, and install splits.
  • Mix and troubleshoot muds and grouts.
  • Maintain a clean and organized worksite per site housekeeping standards.
  • Perform rod tripping, install lifter cases, and maintain drilling cycle readiness.
  • Assemble and disassemble downhole tooling, including core barrels, inner/outer tubes, and latch heads.
  • Participate in manual material handling, hauling supplies, and fueling operations.
  • Accurately label, load, and secure core boxes.
  • Write core blocks and keep core areas clean and organized.
  • Perform sample collection, ensure proper labeling, order, and secure storage.
  • Build and manage chip trays.
  • Use BOX app for documentation or reporting.
  • Maintain hand and power tools in good condition.
  • Wear and maintain appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
  • Assist in the training of new Driller Assistants in a safe and professional manner.
  • Complete other duties as assigned by the Driller or Field Supervisor.

Required Skills:

  • Understand and follow all 10 Life Saving Rules.
  • Understand and use gas monitors, self-rescuers, refuge chambers, and emergency protocols.
  • Know emergency escape routes and the Mine Site Emergency Plan.
  • Comprehend mine site communications, light signals, and emergency shutdowns.
  • Know locations of SDS/MSDS, spill kits, and trash labeling protocols.
  • Understand and utilize Standard Work Procedures.
  • Understand and read drill plans and maps.

Education and Experience:

  • Hold a current MSHA 5000-23 UG/Surface Certification.
  • Prior experience in drilling operations or mining environments preferred.
  • Familiarity with safety protocols and mechanical/equipment knowledge.
  • Current valid driver’s license (without any DUI’s, reckless driving citations, or more than 3 moving violations in the last 3 years)

Physical Requirements:

  • Physically fit and capable of lifting up to 25 kg (55 lbs); able to work in harsh environments.
  • 2–5 years’ experience in drilling or mining (e.g., Driller Helper).
  • Must pass a pre-employment medical and drug screening.
  • Clean criminal background check.
  • Willingness to travel and work at various mine sites if required.
  • Must be able to work flexible shifts and adapt to varying field conditions.
  • Able and willing to travel for this position and work 12-hour days, 7 days a week, for 20 days at a time (home 10) and willing to be away from family and friends
  • Labor intensive work outdoors, with small crews, in various weather conditions and often remote work locations
  • Dependable transportation to get to and from different job sites (and airports)

14 days on, 7 days off
20 days on, 10 days off
28 days on, 14 days off
Travel days are scheduled on days off

Compensation details: 71000-120000 Yearly Salary


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