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Drilling Rig Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

NTI Connect LLC

HDD Operator

Manassas, VA · On-site

$20.75 - $26.75/hr

Experience * 1-2 years of experience operating Ditch Witch AT40 drill rig * Experience with Ditch Witch, Vermeer, or similar directional drilling equipment preferred. Skills & Competencies * Strong ...

ECS Ltd

Geotechnical Project Manager

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Supervise field work performed by drilling/test pit crews and assist with rig access issues * Classify soil and assign laboratory testing * Mentor and support Staff Project Managers, Assistant Staff ...

US LBM Holdings LLC

CDL Driver Boom Crane

Columbia, MD · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

Certified Drill Rig Operator-NCCCO Boom Certification preferred - maintain active accredited certification for equipment type (e.g. NCCCO, NCCER, CIC) preferred. * Class A CDL License required.

ECS Ltd

Geotechnical Project Manager

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Supervise field work performed by drilling/test pit crews and assist with rig access issues * Classify soil and assign laboratory testing * Mentor and support Staff Project Managers, Assistant Staff ...

Network Connex

Hydraulic Mechanic

Manassas, VA · On-site

$19.75 - $27/hr

This includes drill rigs, trenching equipment, vac trucks, heavy equipment, and support vehicles ... rig inspections, and job readiness checks. Compliance & Documentation * Maintain accurate ...

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All JobsDrilling Rig JobsDrilling Rig Jobs in Washington

Drilling Rig information

See Washington salary details

$16

$31

$49

How much do drilling rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling rig in Washington is $31.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.05 and $34.04 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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Drilling rig jobs, such as roustabouts or roughnecks, can pay around $4,000 per week with experience and safety certifications. These roles often require physical stamina, technical skills, and on-the-job training rather than a college degree, and they typically involve working in the oil and gas industry on a rotating schedule.

How to get hired on a drilling rig?

To get hired on a drilling rig, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant safety certifications such as OSHA, and physical fitness. Experience in the oil and gas industry or technical training in drilling operations can improve job prospects, and entry-level positions often require willingness to work long shifts and in remote locations.

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 positions such as drilling engineers, toolpushers, or rig managers, with salaries often exceeding $150,000 annually. These roles require extensive experience, specialized skills, and certifications, and often involve working long shifts in challenging environments.

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 Washington? The most popular types of Drilling Rig jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Drilling Rig jobs in Washington? For Drilling Rig jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drilling Rig jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Drilling Rig jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Drilling Rig jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Drilling Rig job openings:
Drilling Rig jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drilling Rig job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% As Needed, and 93% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $64,851 per year, or $31.2 per hour.
HDD Operator

HDD Operator

NTI Connect LLC

Manassas, VA • On-site

$20.75 - $26.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Job Posting Title: HDD Operator

Job Title: HDD Operator (Horizontal Directional Drilling Operator) for Ditch Witch AT40

Position Type: Full-Time

Reports To: HDD Foreman

Location: Manassas VA

If being a part of a world-class organization that operates in some of the most advanced technological environments around the world sounds like a dream job, Network Connex might be the right fit for you! You’ll be part of a team working together to solve customer problems every day, with compensation and benefits that are an investment in your career, financial future, and overall well-being.


Position Summary

The HDD Operator is responsible for operating horizontal directional drilling equipment used in the installation of underground telecommunications and utility infrastructure. This position ensures safe and efficient drilling operations, monitors bore progress, and maintains equipment performance in accordance with company standards, engineered designs, and safety regulations. The HDD Operator works closely with the Locator, Foreman, and construction crew to complete bore paths and conduit installations accurately and on schedule.

Key Responsibilities:

Drilling Operations

  • Operate Ditch Witch AT40, mud systems, and drilling support equipment.
  • Execute bore plans according to engineered specifications, depth requirements, and utility locates.
  • Monitor drill head pressure, mud flow, and machine performance to prevent damage or downtime.
  • Perform pilot bores, pullbacks, and reaming operations safely and accurately.
  • Communicate continuously with the Locator during drilling operations.

Safety & Compliance

  • Comply with all OSHA regulations, company safety policies, and industry standards.
  • Conduct daily equipment inspections and participate in JHAs and safety briefings.
  • Maintain proper drilling fluid management to prevent environmental issues.
  • Ensure safe dig practices around existing underground utilities.

Equipment Care & Maintenance

  • Perform routine maintenance such as lubrication, fluid checks, and basic troubleshooting.
  • Report mechanical issues immediately and assist mechanics with repairs as needed.
  • Maintain equipment cleanliness and readiness for daily operations.

Documentation & Reporting

  • Record bore logs, daily production, and drilling metrics as required.
  • Communicate progress, delays, or issues to the Foreman or Supervisor.
  • Assist with completion of as‑builts and jobsite documentation when required.

Teamwork & Communication

  • Work closely with HDD Locators, Laborers, and the field crew to support daily production.
  • Follow instructions from the Foreman and collaborate to resolve jobsite challenges.
  • Maintain professional communication with team members and inspectors.

Required Qualifications:

Experience

  • 1-2 years of experience operating Ditch Witch AT40 drill rig
  • Experience with Ditch Witch, Vermeer, or similar directional drilling equipment preferred.

Skills & Competencies

  • Strong understanding of HDD operations, tooling, drilling fluids, and bore planning.
  • Ability to read and interpret bore prints, utility locates, and project drawings.
  • Skilled in preventing and resolving drill head, rod, or reamer issues.
  • Excellent situational awareness and commitment to safe excavation practices.
  • Ability to work in fast‑paced outdoor environments.

Licenses & Certifications

  • Valid driver’s license required
  • OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification preferred.
  • Manufacturer equipment training (Ditch Witch/Vermeer) a plus.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to lift 50–75 lbs regularly.
  • Work outdoors in varying weather and terrain conditions.
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, and operate equipment for extended periods.
  • Ability to work in trenches, confined areas, and active construction sites.

Work Environment

  • Outdoor construction sites with exposure to heavy equipment, weather, mud, and traffic.
  • Travel between job sites may be required depending on project needs.



In addition to competitive base pay, Network Connex offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your physical, mental, and financial health and you can begin participating in our programs on the first of the month following your start date.

Join our Vanguard 401(k) plan, with immediate vesting and a generous 5% company match to help you build long-term financial security. Our team also enjoys 10 paid company holidays, a generous PTO accrual schedule, and access to discounts on useful products and services.

EEOC-Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran 

Network Connex believes all persons are entitled to equal employment opportunities and does not discriminate against employees or job applicants because of race, color, gender, affectional or sexual orientation, domestic partnership status, ancestry, religion, national origin, citizenship status, marital status, disability, veteran status, age or any other protected group status. Upon acceptance of an offer, all candidates will be required to pass a background check and drug screening.