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Drilling Rig Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

TeamSoft

Heavy Equipment Operator - Driller

Buchanan, VA · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

May Operate well-drilling rig to restore irrigation, industrial or domestic wate wells to active production and be designed Well- Reactivator opeatror. Heavy Equipment- Qualifications: * Be able to ...

MasTec Inc

Gas Directional Drill Operator

Richmond, VA · On-site

Provide assistance and training to all drilling trainees. * Maintain and inspect rig regularly. * Implement best practices for utility verification. * Read blueprints and assist in preparing drill ...

MasTec Inc

Gas Directional Drill Operator

Richmond, VA · On-site

Provide assistance and training to all drilling trainees. * Maintain and inspect rig regularly. * Implement best practices for utility verification. * Read blueprints and assist in preparing drill ...

MasTec Inc

Gas Directional Drill Operator

Richmond, VA · On-site

Provide assistance and training to all drilling trainees. * Maintain and inspect rig regularly. * Implement best practices for utility verification. * Read blueprints and assist in preparing drill ...

Boart Longyear

Driller - Eastern Coring

Wytheville, VA · On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

... drilling fluids; collect, label, and organize samples and build chip trays; assist with rig-up/rig-down and site moves; fuel equipment and perform basic operator/PM service (greasing, oil changes ...

MasTec Inc

Gas Directional Drill Operator

Richmond, VA · On-site

Provide assistance and training to all drilling trainees. * Maintain and inspect rig regularly. * Implement best practices for utility verification. * Read blueprints and assist in preparing drill ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member II

Woodbridge, VA

$22.75 - $31/hr

Regional Drilling Licensure * Valid Class A or B commercial driver's license. * The employee will be expected to perform the following tasks: * Operate a geotechnical drill rig to advance shallow ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member II

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$26.75 - $37.50/hr

Operate a geotechnical drill rig to advance shallow boreholes in soil. * Oversee a 2-man drill crew in all tasks associated with drilling operations. * Install instrumentation and monitoring wells.

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All JobsDrilling Rig JobsDrilling Rig Jobs in Virginia

Drilling Rig information

See Virginia salary details

$14

$27

$42

How much do drilling rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling rig 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 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 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 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 Virginia? The most popular types of Drilling Rig jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Drilling Rig jobs in Virginia? For Drilling Rig jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drilling Rig jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Drilling Rig jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Drilling Rig jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Drilling Rig job openings:
Drilling Rig jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drilling Rig job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,768 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

Sonic Drill Rig Operator

Connelly and Associates,

Winchester, VA • On-site

$38 - $45/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

About the Role:

The Sonic Drill Rig Operator is a skilled role responsible for operating and managing a sonic drill rig safely and efficiently. The successful candidate will oversee the drilling process from setup through completion, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and operational standards. This role requires close collaboration with clientele, management and field teams to optimize drilling performance and troubleshoot any technical issues that arise. The Sonic Driller will also be responsible for maintaining equipment, monitoring drilling parameters, and documenting operational data accurately. Ultimately, this position plays a vital role in supporting the company’s production goals while prioritizing environmental and workplace safety.

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • 3+ years experience as a Sonic Driller.
  • Familiarity with drilling equipment and safety standards.
  • Ability to work in physically demanding environments and under varying weather conditions.
  • Ability to stay overnight as required for out-of-town projects.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
  • Strong leadership qualities.
  • Valid CDL with clean driving record

Responsibilities:

  • Operate and control sonic drilling equipment or equivalent (ex: Terrasonic TSi 150CC) to perform operations according to project specifications.
  • Monitor drilling parameters to ensure safe and efficient drilling.
  • Conduct routine inspections and maintenance of drilling machinery to prevent equipment failure.
  • Collaborate with management, engineers and other field personnel to adjust drilling plans and resolve technical challenges.
  • Maintain detailed records of drilling activities, as required per project.
  • Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and company policies during drilling operations.
  • Participate in safety meetings and contribute to continuous improvement of operational procedures.

WE ARE A FEDERAL MOTOR CARRIER - DRUG FREE WORKPLACE - INITIAL AND RANDOM DRUG SCREENS WILL COMPLY WITH FEDERAL LAW