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Drilling Rig Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

CDL Driver

Alsip, IL · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

For Boom Crane CDL Driver positions - a Certified Drill Rig Operator-NCCCO Boom Certification preferred - maintain active accredited certification for equipment type (e.g. NCCCO, NCCER, CIC ...

For Boom Crane CDL Driver positions - a Certified Drill Rig Operator-NCCCO Boom Certification preferred - maintain active accredited certification for equipment type (e.g. NCCCO, NCCER, CIC ...

CDL Driver

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$25/hr

For Boom Crane CDL Driver positions - a Certified Drill Rig Operator-NCCCO Boom Certification preferred - maintain active accredited certification for equipment type (e.g. NCCCO, NCCER, CIC ...

CDL Driver

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$25/hr

For Boom Crane CDL Driver positions - a Certified Drill Rig Operator-NCCCO Boom Certification preferred - maintain active accredited certification for equipment type (e.g. NCCCO, NCCER, CIC ...

For Boom Crane CDL Driver positions - a Certified Drill Rig Operator-NCCCO Boom Certification preferred - maintain active accredited certification for equipment type (e.g. NCCCO, NCCER, CIC ...

CDL Driver

Alsip, IL · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

For Boom Crane CDL Driver positions - a Certified Drill Rig Operator-NCCCO Boom Certification preferred - maintain active accredited certification for equipment type (e.g. NCCCO, NCCER, CIC ...

CDL Driver Boom Crane

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$30 - $32/hr

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

... rig and general working area. The successful candidate must have a strong desire to learn, an ... Set up and operate various drilling equipment, sampling systems, geophysical instruments and other ...

Drilling Rig information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$15

$28

$44

How much do drilling rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling rig in Chicago, IL is $28.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.79 and $30.96 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Drilling Rig jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Drilling Rig jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Drilling Rig job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,985 per year, or $28.4 per hour.
Geotechnical Driller (Operating Engineer)

Geotechnical Driller (Operating Engineer)

Schnabel

Cary, IL

$34.05 - $50/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

THE COMPANY:

Schnabel is a nationally recognized specialty contractor with over 65 years of experience in geostructural design-build and underground construction. With a portfolio of thousands of successful projects across the country, we are known for delivering smart, safe, and cost-effective solutions to complex engineering challenges. We specialize in advanced earth retention systems and other innovative geostructural techniques that create stable, lasting foundations for buildings, infrastructure, and other critical structures. At Schnabel, we combine technical expertise with a hands-on approach to ensure every project starts on solid ground.

ROLE:

Schnabel is seeking an Operating Engineer to assist with the building of specialty underground structures. Our goal is to find a Geotechnical Drill Operator or equipment operator with experience in the safe operation of tieback and micropile drills (Klemm, Comacchio, Hutte) related to geotechnical construction. Heavy preference to those that can operate vertical drill rigs (Bauer / Liebherr).

As a driller you will work with your project manager and field supervisor to install tieback anchors, soldier beams, micropiles, and more.

Our typical scope of work includes installation of piles, lagging, walers, tiebacks, and braces for support of excavation projects. We also take on challenging projects with underpinning, grouting, tunneling, and unique structural support as part of our scope. Candidates having direct construction experience and familiarity with our company’s traditional scope of work are preferred.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Be responsible for safe and proper operation or drill rigs and associated equipment.
  • Follow all of Schnabel’s safety regulations.
  • Complete inspection and maintenance logs, and documentation as required.
  • Record drilling parameters, production data, and daily progress reports, while maintaining open and clear communication to job site supervisor.
  • Clean drill rigs, trucks, and equipment.
  • Clear and maintain a clean work environment without debris or potential hazards.
  • Work closely with site leadership to ensure that scope of work is being met within a timely schedule and meeting production rates.
  • Manage your scope of work appropriately to minimize job cost.
  • Always wear appropriate PPE, as assigned by job site supervisor.
  • Exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and dust.

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Minimum of 2 years of documented experience operating drill rigs proficiently.
  • High level of focus in a construction environment that is very busy and noisy.
  • Current certification for vertical and/or tieback drill rig or willing to obtain certification.
  • Focus, stand, walk, kneel, climb, bend, and work from heights or within confined space during assigned shift.
  • Ability to pass pre-employment drug test.
  • Local and regional travel as required for projects.
  • Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds of materials over rough terrain.
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Driver’s license, reliable transportation, and a safe driving record.
  • Follow all safety procedures, use proper protective equipment, and help maintain a safe job site by identifying and reporting potential hazards.

SAFETY:

Support the company’s safety and risk management objectives by adhering to established procedures, proactively identifying and addressing potential risks, and contributing to the achievement of safety goals through the use of metrics and continuous improvement efforts.

Don’t hurt yourself, don’t hurt anyone else, and don’t let anyone hurt you; a simple philosophy that has been adopted at Schnabel. We live by this belief to provide a safe and healthy workplace for all our employees and subcontractors.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay Ranges $34.05 - $50.00+ per hour

Schnabel is a union contractor and as such, your benefits are made available based on your union affiliation. Through hard work and reliability