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Drilling Rigs Jobs in Kilgore, TX (NOW HIRING)

RIGCLOUD TECHNICIAN I - EAST TEXAS

Tyler, TX

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

You will represent the company on the front lines, ensuring optimal performance of our hardware and software solutions on drilling and service rigs. In addition to traditional field service ...

New

ETX-FIELD.MECHANIC III

Tyler, TX · On-site

$23.50 - $32/hr

To safely ensure the efficient & continual functioning of all the mechanical equipment at the drilling rig site, supporting all the rigs in the assigned district. Installs, repairs and troubleshoots ...

ETX-FIELD.MECHANIC III

Tyler, TX · On-site

$23.50 - $32/hr

To safely ensure the efficient & continual functioning of all the mechanical equipment at the drilling rig site, supporting all the rigs in the assigned district. Installs, repairs and troubleshoots ...

Field Maintenance Tech PDC

Tyler, TX · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

The New Standard for Drilling Performance Drill safer, smarter and faster with Patterson-UTI Drilling's comprehensive fleet of pad-capable rigs featuring advanced walking systems to enhance your ...

Field Maintenance Tech PDC

Tyler, TX · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

The Technician will be exposed to the typical conditions of the local area where the drilling operations and rigs are located. The Technician will work in a heavy industrial environment which ...

Mechanic (Kilgore, TX)

Kilgore, TX · On-site

$19.50 - $27/hr

  • PTO

... rigs, pumping equipment, lifting equipment, and other rig and drill-out oilfield related equipment. The equipment mechanic will also perform the following but not limited to preventive and corrective ...

Drilling Rigs information

See Kilgore, TX salary details

$16

$34

$57

How much do drilling rigs jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling rigs in Kilgore, TX is $34.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.27 and $36.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drilling rig operator?

To thrive as a Drilling Rig Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, a high school diploma or equivalent, and on-the-job training or relevant certifications. Familiarity with drilling machinery, safety protocols, and industry-standard tools like top drives and blowout preventers is crucial. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication set top operators apart. These skills and qualities are essential for maintaining safety, efficiency, and productivity in demanding drilling environments.

What is a drilling rig?

Drilling rigs are complex machines used to create holes in the earth's subsurface, primarily for extracting oil, natural gas, or water. They come in various sizes and types, from small portable rigs for shallow wells to massive offshore platforms. Drilling rigs can be land-based or installed on offshore platforms and include equipment for rotating the drill bit, circulating drilling fluid, and handling drill pipe. Their primary function is to reach underground reservoirs safely and efficiently. Drilling rigs are essential for the energy industry and play a critical role in global resource extraction.

What is the difference between Drilling Rigs vs Drilling Operators?

AspectDrilling RigsDrilling Operators
CredentialsTechnical certifications, safety trainingOn-the-job training, certifications often required
Work EnvironmentOn-site at drilling locations, often remoteOn-site at drilling sites, operating equipment
Industry UsageEquipment used in oil, gas, mineral explorationOperate drilling equipment and monitor operations
Job RoleDesign, maintain, and operate drilling rigsControl and monitor drilling operations

Drilling Rigs are the large machinery used to drill wells, while Drilling Operators are the personnel who operate and monitor these rigs during drilling operations. Both roles are essential in the drilling industry, with Rigs being the equipment and Operators being the skilled workers managing the drilling process.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working on drilling rigs, and how can they prepare to handle them?

Professionals working on drilling rigs often encounter challenges such as harsh weather conditions, long shifts, and the need for strict adherence to safety protocols. The work environment is fast-paced and physically demanding, requiring strong teamwork and communication skills. To prepare, candidates should focus on building physical endurance, staying current with safety certifications, and developing problem-solving abilities to respond quickly to unexpected situations. Familiarity with advanced drilling technology and a proactive attitude toward safety can set applicants apart in this field.

What cities near Kilgore, TX are hiring for Drilling Rigs jobs?

Cities near Kilgore, TX with the most Drilling Rigs job openings:

Infographic showing various Drilling Rigs job openings in Kilgore, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,968 per year, or $34.1 per hour.

ETX FIELD SERVICE SUPERVISOR I

Nabors Industries Limited

Tyler, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Nabors Industries rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

58th of 86 rated oil and gas companies


Job description


The Field Service Supervisor is responsible for leading domestic mechanical and electrical field service operations, supporting the internal Operations division of Nabors, supervising assigned technicians, and ensuring safe, efficient, and timely service delivery across the assigned district. This role supports field operations through technical troubleshooting, workforce coordination, internal operations communication, equipment readiness, and adherence to company safety and documentation requirements.
Responsibilities
  • Plan, coordinate, and direct domestic mechanical and electrical field service technicians and required parts in response to the needs of the internal Operations division of Nabors.
  • Provide direct supervision, guidance, and support to assigned Mechanical and Electrical Field Technicians.
  • Perform supervisory responsibilities in accordance with company policies and applicable laws, including interviewing, hiring, training, scheduling, assigning work, evaluating performance, recognizing and addressing performance issues, resolving complaints, and supporting employee development.
  • Communicate directly with internal Operations stakeholders to provide technical support, service updates, and timely issue resolution.
  • Troubleshoot hydraulic, mechanical, and electrical systems in coordination with internal Operations stakeholders, technicians, and Nabors personnel.
  • Support installation and service activities for company-manufactured top drives, automated catwalks, floor wrenches, and other Canrig equipment as required.
  • Ensure technicians under supervision comply with company safety programs, documentation requirements, and applicable service standards.
  • Complete all Nabors-required training and ensure team members remain current on required training expectations.
  • Travel to operational locations as needed to support domestic field operations.
  • Maintain ongoing communication with drilling rigs following rig moves to support operational satisfaction among drilling crews, tool pushers, and company representatives.
  • Support 24-hour field service coverage for rig systems within the assigned geographic area, including installations, service calls, and rig-downs.
  • Complete required reports, service documentation, and related paperwork accurately and within established timelines.
  • Assist with after-hours service calls and coordinate on-call Maintenance Technicians as needed.
  • Visit drilling rigs within assigned technician regions to support operational objectives and the Nabors business plan.
  • Identify opportunities to install additional systems on new rigs and upgrade or add revenue-generating components to existing active rigs.
  • Coordinate internal operations support efforts through the Maintenance Manager.
  • Present and demonstrate maintenance services in a professional and knowledgeable manner.
  • Use company-provided technology, including a laptop and cellular phone, to support field service operations and communication.
  • Promote operational efficiency and cost control in the delivery of products and services to the internal Operations division of Nabors.
  • Ensure the district maintains appropriate equipment levels to support upcoming operational needs.
  • Support implementation of the Nabors Safety Program to reduce accidents and exposure to hazardous conditions.

Qualifications
  • Minimum of five years of experience in the oil and gas field.
  • Minimum of two years of experience working with Canrig/Nabors equipment.
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Ability to prepare timely, accurate reports and complete required service documentation.
  • Experience using database software and manufacturing or inventory management systems.
  • Ability to raise concerns constructively while maintaining credibility, professionalism, and positive working relationships.
  • Strong organizational and administrative skills, including the ability to work independently and maintain flexible work hours in support of field operations.
  • Ability to interpret technical drawings, schematics, and related service documentation.
  • Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Ability to remain effective and make sound decisions under pressure.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
  • Strong working knowledge of networking concepts and networking equipment.
  • Working knowledge of electronics as applied to oilfield instrumentation.
  • Additional domain-specific training, relevant industry experience, or established industry contacts preferred.
  • Demonstrated dependability, flexibility, organization, motivation, assertiveness, and ability to meet deadlines.
  • Willingness and ability to travel as required.
  • Ability to adapt quickly to changing operational priorities and field conditions.

Language Skills
Must be fluent in English and able to read, understand, and interpret instructions, correspondence, and technical information. Must be able to prepare clear written communication and present information effectively in one-on-one and small group settings with internal Operations stakeholders and employees.
Reasoning Ability
Ability to solve practical problems, evaluate operational variables, and interpret instructions provided in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form. Must be able to exercise sound judgment in situations with limited standardization.
Computer Skills
Working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel is required. Proficiency with additional Microsoft Office applications is preferred.
Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations
Valid driver's license required.
Location
Candidate must reside within the Alice, Texas coverage area or be willing to relocate.
About Us
Nabors is a leading provider of advanced technology for the energy industry. With operations in about 20 countries, Nabors has established a global network of people, technology and equipment to deploy solutions that deliver safe, efficient and responsible hydrocarbon production. By leveraging its core competencies, particularly in drilling, engineering, automation, data science and manufacturing, Nabors aims to innovate the future of energy and enable the transition to a lower carbon world.
About the Team
Equal Opportunity Employer
Nabors is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibiting discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, religion, age, color, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This applies to all terms and conditions of employment including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leave of absence, compensation, and training. To learn more about our Fair Employment practices, please refer to the Nabors Code of Conduct.

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