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Drilling Rig Jobs in Lubbock, TX (NOW HIRING)

Norton Energy Drilling

Floorhand

Lubbock, TX · On-site

Cleaning and performing maintenance work on the drilling rig * Assist in rigging down, moving and rigging up all parts of the rig * Miscellaneous tasks such as mixing mud, digging ditches and ...

Norton Energy Drilling

Floorhand

Lubbock, TX · On-site

Cleaning and performing maintenance work on the drilling rig * Assist in rigging down, moving and rigging up all parts of the rig * Miscellaneous tasks such as mixing mud, digging ditches and ...

Norton Energy Drilling

Diesel Engine Mechanic

Lubbock, TX · On-site

$21.50 - $28.25/hr

Norton Energy Drilling is currently looking to hire an experienced diesel engine mechanic to ... Train and work with rig personnel on proper engine operation and routine maintenance * Inspect ...

Norton Energy Drilling

Top Drive Technician

Lubbock, TX · On-site

$38 - $44/hr

Norton Energy Drilling is currently looking to hire an experienced technician to service the ... Train and work with rig personnel on proper top drive operation and routine maintenance * Inspect ...

All JobsDrilling Rig JobsDrilling Rig Jobs in Lubbock, TX

Drilling Rig information

See Lubbock, TX salary details

$12

$23

$37

How much do drilling rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling rig in Lubbock, TX is $23.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $25.82 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 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.

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 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.

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Drilling Rig jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drilling Rig job openings in Lubbock, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,170 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Floorhand

Norton Energy Drilling

Lubbock, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Responsibilities
Righands must be physically able to perform various job functions due to the small number of crewmembers doing a large volume of work.
  • No experience required. We will train you!
  • 12- hour shifts
  • Perform duties requiring vertical lifting up to 100 lbs. and horizontal pushing and pulling up to 125 lbs.
  • Perform duties in inclement weather (extreme heat and cold),
  • Making connections while drilling and tripping
  • Changing bits
  • Cleaning and performing maintenance work on the drilling rig
  • Assist in rigging down, moving and rigging up all parts of the rig
  • Miscellaneous tasks such as mixing mud, digging ditches and location cleanup
  • Work 7 straight days followed by 7 days off.
  • Reside within a 6 hour radius of Levelland, TX

Knowledge and Skills
  • Must be willing to work outdoors in all weather conditions for extended periods of time
  • Good communication skills both written and verbal.

Benefits
Benefit eligibility is active the first day of the month after a 60-day grace period, and includes:
  • Group medical insurance with dependent coverage available
  • Dental and vision insurance available
  • 401K
  • Life insurance and long-term disability

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