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Drilling Rigs Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mariana Minerals

RC Driller

Moab, UT · On-site

$24.50 - $30.25/hr

Safely operate Reverse Circulation (RC) drilling rigs in accordance with site procedures, manufacturer specifications, and regulatory requirements * Conduct thorough pre-start inspections of drill ...

Valley Well Drilling, LLC

Water Well Driller

Santa Fe, NM · On-site

$55K - $100K/yr

Duties Operate drilling rigs and associated equipment, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and OSHA standards. Perform routine maintenance on drilling equipment, including and support ...

Valley Well Drilling, LLC

Water Well Driller

Boise, ID · On-site

$55K - $100K/yr

Duties Operate drilling rigs and associated equipment, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and OSHA standards. Perform routine maintenance on drilling equipment, including and support ...

Valley Well Drilling, LLC

Water Well Driller

Bismarck, ND · On-site

$55K - $100K/yr

Duties Operate drilling rigs and associated equipment, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and OSHA standards. Perform routine maintenance on drilling equipment, including and support ...

Valley Well Drilling, LLC

Water Well Driller

Portland, OR · On-site

$55K - $100K/yr

Duties Operate drilling rigs and associated equipment, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and OSHA standards. Perform routine maintenance on drilling equipment, including and support ...

Valley Well Drilling, LLC

Water Well Driller

Cheyenne, WY · On-site

$55K - $100K/yr

Duties Operate drilling rigs and associated equipment, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and OSHA standards. Perform routine maintenance on drilling equipment, including and support ...

Valley Well Drilling, LLC

Water Well Driller

Miami, FL

$55K - $100K/yr

Duties Operate drilling rigs and associated equipment, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and OSHA standards. Perform routine maintenance on drilling equipment, including and support ...

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Drilling Rigs information

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$41

$69

How much do drilling rigs jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling rigs in the United States is $41.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.38 and $44.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

How to get a job on a drilling rig?

To get a job 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 chances, and entry-level positions often require willingness to work long shifts in remote environments.
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Drilling Rigs jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drilling Rigs job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,248 per year, or $41.5 per hour.

directional Drilling Operator for bore jobs

EXCAVATING & ELITE SOLUTIONS LLC

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$20.75 - $25.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Directional Drilling operator 
Company: Excavating & Elite Solutions 
Location: Tucson, Arizona 
Employment Type: Full-Time
bilingual preferably.
Excavating & Elite Solutions is an industrial general contractor specializing in telecom network infrastructure. We’re seeking a professional Directional Drilling Operator to join our team! We are a family-built company that values a supportive, close-knit environment. Our mission is to uplift those within our circle by encouraging teamwork, accountability, and growth. We believe in second chances earned through commitment and integrity. We strive to create a workplace where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. 
Position Summary:
The Directional Drilling Operator will be responsible for operating drilling equipment such as vermeer 24x40 and 40x55 performing horizontal boring, The ideal candidate has experience in excavation environment and understands jobs site safety and production expectations. 
Key responsibilities: 
  • Operate drilling rigs and related heavy equipment safely and efficiently 
  • Perform foundation drilling, caisson drilling, tiebacks, soil anchors, or rock drilling is preferred 
  • Read and interpret blueprints and site plans 
  • Conduct pre-trip and daily equipment inspections
  • Work closely with foremen and crew members to meet project deadlines
  • Maintain compliance with OSHA and company safety standards. 

Qualifications:
  • 1+ years of drilling experience (excavation or construction industry preferred)
  • Experience operating drill rigs 
  • Knowledge of soil conditions and drilling techniques 
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions 
  • Strong mechanical aptitude