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Drilling Rig Jobs in Tucson, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Performs daily safety audits at drill rig sit. Candidates must be able to perform all the tasks mentioned. Work schedule anticipated seven (7) 12-hour working days per 14 day period. Expected term is ...

Rig material and equipment for lifting as required REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES ... Ability to make simple and complex layouts for cutting, welding, shearing, punching and drilling ...

Rig material and equipment for lifting as required REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES ... Ability to make simple and complex layouts for cutting, welding, shearing, punching and drilling ...

Ability to make simple and complex layouts for cutting, welding, shearing, punching and drilling ... Ability to rig material and equipment for lifting as required. * Other tasks as assigned by the ...

Rig material and equipment for lifting as required REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES ... Ability to make simple and complex layouts for cutting, welding, shearing, punching and drilling ...

Drilling Rig information

See Tucson, AZ salary details

$13

$26

$40

How much do drilling rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling rig in Tucson, AZ is $26.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $28.41 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Drilling Rig jobs in Tucson, AZ?

The most popular types of Drilling Rig jobs in Tucson, AZ are:

What are popular job titles related to Drilling Rig jobs in Tucson, AZ?

For Drilling Rig jobs in Tucson, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Tucson, AZ are hiring for Drilling Rig jobs?

Cities near Tucson, AZ with the most Drilling Rig job openings:

Infographic showing various Drilling Rig job openings in Tucson, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,168 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Telecommunications Drill Locator

Hyper Networks

Tucson, AZ • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Directional Drill Locator

Directional Drill Locator are responsible for running a variety of directional drilling equipment; Directional Drill, Excavator, Forklift, Dump truck etc. The individual in this position is required to work at all times with safety in mind. Must be able to read, understand and follow company policies and procedures related to safety, and attend all scheduled safety meetings, as well as competent person and OSHA training.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

  • Operates drilling equipment and various other construction equipment
  • Experience drilling in both standard and high-risk areas, such as areas with live utilities
  • Have knowledge of utility depths and placement
  • Possess general knowledge of construction practices and be familiar with equipment
  • Respect the importance of ensuring Company assets (vehicles, equipment, tools, etc.) are properly and continuously maintained in good repair and secured in a safe manner
  • Ability to read blueprints Organization of materials and other resources is necessary to complete excavation requirements, which may include basic hand tools
  • Assist as required in all locating aspects of the project as directed by the Drill Operator
  • Handle physically demanding construction duties.
  • Assist crew members in placing underground pipes, conduits, manual labor and shovel work, operate power tools
  • Some experience operating drilling machinery
  • Work as a part of a crew.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Qualifications To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Previous experience as HDD Rig Operator is a plus
  • Combination of work experience and/or technical training in an industry-related trade certification or education program.
  • Must possess and maintain a clean driver's abstract and valid full-driver's license appropriate to the requirements of the vehicle being driven – CDL required (Class A)
  • Working knowledge of health, safety and environmental protection practices and procedures as they apply to related construction processes
  • Follow safety policies and procedures and wear the required personal protective equipment required for the job in a safe manner
  • Strong knowledge of construction documents
  • Must be able to track and communicate daily production and materials.
  • Must be capable of handling logistics and crew assignments
  • Ability to communicate clearly and collaborate with multiple project stakeholders, interpret stakeholders' needs, and identify solutions
  • Ability to work with little supervision, while adding to a safe and positive team environment is a must
  • Must have basic computer skills in order to develop and maintain bore logs
  • Ability to multi-task and work in a fast paced environment
  • Must be able to climb up and down ladders, scaffoldings and lifts
  • Ability to work in all weather conditions; this includes extreme temperatures
  • At times you may be required to work in trenches, manholes, tunnels, closets, and crawl spaces
  • Have knowledge and ability to identify and use basic hand tools
  • Class A CDL license
  • Ability to identify and distinguish colors of utility flags and markings on the ground.
  • Must be willing to travel

Education and Experience

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Valid Class Driver License or State Issued ID required
  • 1 year of relevant experience preferred, or an equivalent of education and experience
  • Restoration experience in asphalt and concrete preferred
  • Experience operating vibratory plows beneficial
  • Experience operating mini-excavators beneficial
  • CDL Class A license is preferred
  • OSHA 10 Certification.
  • Precise hand-eye coordination.
  • Good written and verbal communication skills.

Working Conditions

  • May be required to work long and unpredictable hours including weekends
  • Working outdoors in all types of weather conditions
  • Bend/squat/kneel/stand frequently
  • Exposure to dust, fluctuating temperatures, and periodic high noise levels
  • Must be able to lift up to 80 lbs. from floor and above head

Hyper Networks. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment opportunities at Hyper Networks are based upon one's qualifications and capabilities to perform the essential functions of a particular job. All employment opportunities are provided without regard to race, religion, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.