2

Entry Level Drill Rig Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Performs proper maintenance of directional drill rig and mini excavator by greasing, oiling, and ... This applies to the Operator of the Directional Drill. * Must have detailed knowledge and ...

Rig Hand

Willis, TX · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

... drilling fluid, cement and chemicals.  Operate rig under direct supervision of pump rig operator.  Learning about basic maintenance of pump rig including mud tanks, mud pumps, draw works ...

Support drilling operations by operating machinery, such as forklifts and cranes. Perform routine maintenance and repairs on rig equipment and machinery. Ensure compliance with safety regulations ...

Support drilling operations by operating machinery, such as forklifts and cranes. Perform routine maintenance and repairs on rig equipment and machinery. Ensure compliance with safety regulations ...

Directional Drill Bore Foreman

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$21.75 - $27/hr

Must have detailed knowledge and experience for safely and effectively operating Horizontal Directional Drill rig. This includes maneuvering directional drill rig in position for drilling and ...

Work under the supervision the drill operator. Your job will primarily consist of: * Assisting driller during drilling operation with setting up drill rig, carrying augers and hooking them up to the ...

Mix drilling fluid, cement and chemicals. * Operate rig under direct supervision of pump rig operator. * Learning about basic maintenance of pump rig including mud tanks, mud pumps, draw works ...

New

Mix drilling fluid, cement and chemicals. * Operate rig under direct supervision of pump rig operator. * Learning about basic maintenance of pump rig including mud tanks, mud pumps, draw works ...

New

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Drill Rig Operator information

What is an entry level drill rig operator?

Entry Level Drill Rig Operators are workers who assist with operating and maintaining drilling rigs, typically under the supervision of more experienced operators. Their main responsibilities include setting up equipment, monitoring drilling operations, ensuring safety protocols, and performing basic maintenance tasks. This role is often considered a starting position in the drilling industry, providing hands-on training and experience for those interested in pursuing a career in drilling operations. No advanced experience is usually required, but a willingness to work in physically demanding environments is important.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level drill rig operator?

To thrive as an Entry Level Drill Rig Operator, you need a basic understanding of mechanical systems, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with drilling equipment, safety protocols, and certifications such as OSHA or HAZWOPER are typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for maintaining safety, operational efficiency, and successful project outcomes in demanding work environments.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level drill rig operators, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level drill rig operators often encounter challenges such as adapting to physically demanding work, understanding safety protocols, and learning to operate complex machinery. New operators can overcome these challenges by actively participating in safety trainings, asking experienced team members for guidance, and consistently following standard operating procedures. Building strong communication skills and maintaining a willingness to learn are also important for success and advancement in this role.

What is the difference between Entry Level Drill Rig Operator vs Drilling Technician?

AspectEntry Level Drill Rig OperatorDrilling Technician
Required CertificationsOSHA safety training, basic rig operation certificationsOSHA safety training, basic certifications, sometimes specialized in equipment
Work EnvironmentOn-site at drilling locations, outdoors, physically demandingOn-site at drilling sites, may involve maintenance and troubleshooting
Employer & Industry UsageOil & gas, mining, construction industriesOil & gas, mining, construction industries

Both roles involve working on drilling sites with similar safety and operational certifications. The main difference is that Entry Level Drill Rig Operators focus primarily on operating drilling equipment, while Drilling Technicians often handle maintenance, troubleshooting, and technical support. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers identify the right role based on their skills and career goals.

What are the most commonly searched types of Drill Rig Operator jobs in Texas?

The most popular types of Drill Rig Operator jobs in Texas are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Drill Rig Operator jobs in Texas?

For Entry Level Drill Rig Operator jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Drill Rig Operator jobs in Texas look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Drill Rig Operator jobs in Texas are:

What cities in Texas are hiring for Entry Level Drill Rig Operator jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Entry Level Drill Rig Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Drill Rig Operator job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Directional Drill Operator

GridSource

San Antonio, TX • On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Operate and maintain horizontal directional drill rig and related equipment safely and effectively.

  • Perform site preparation, install underground conduit, vaults, and pedestals according to design prints and work orders.

  • Interpret construction drawings, understand installation methods, and ensure utilities are identified and bore paths are safe before drilling.


Job description

GridSource is seeking Directional Drill Operators in the San Antonio, TX area.
Pay Rate: $30-35 per hour depending on experience
Must have a Class A CDL
Position Overview:
As a Directional Drill Operator, you play a crucial role in the installation of underground conduit for telecommunications infrastructure utilizing horizontal directional drill methods. You will be responsible for various tasks, including site preparation, installation of underground conduit and installation of vaults/pedestals. Additionally, you will be responsible for interpreting construction drawings, understanding design prints and work orders. Your attention to detail, skills, and commitment to safety will contribute to the successful construction of underground plant.
This is an Hourly Non-Exempt position that reports to the Directional Drill Foreman.
What you'll have:
  • Must possess a valid driver's license.
  • Responsible for turning in deliverables and production reports daily.
  • Must set up and maintain a safe working environment, adhering to proper personal protective equipment (PPE) guidelines.
  • Punctuality is essential; Arrive at work on time every day limiting unexcused absences.
  • Responsible for maintaining, cleaning and organizing work area, truck, equipment, tools and office location.
  • Excellent teamwork skills, including the ability to collaborate effectively with coworkers, vendors, and customers.
  • Time management skills are crucial to ensure efficient use of working hours.
  • Timely completion of required documentation
  • Communication Skills: Effective verbal and written communication skills to collaborate with team members and communicate technical information clearly.
What you'll do:
  • Handle tools, equipment, and materials safely and efficiently. Maintain and organize tools and equipment in proper working condition.
  • Load and unload equipment and materials as required.
  • Must have detailed knowledge of all underground hardware (conduit, vaults, pedestals, ground rods, junction boxes, etc.) and installation methods required to meet customer's specifications as well as company standards.
  • Performs proper maintenance of directional drill rig and mini excavator by greasing, oiling, and making minor repairs on equipment.
  • Must have detailed knowledge and experience for safely and effectively operating Horizontal Directional Drill rig. This includes maneuvering directional drill rig in position for drilling and operation during drilling process. This applies to the Operator of the Directional Drill.
  • Must have detailed knowledge and experience operating Horizontal Directional Drill locating receiver during drilling process to safely guide direction drill head during drill process. This applies to the Locator of the Directional Drill.
  • Must perform thorough walkout of bore path prior to directional drill to ensure path can be drilled safely and that all utilities have been identified.
  • Must have knowledge and experience of proper 811 locate procedures and locate markings as indicated by other utilities.
  • Must have detailed knowledge of and experience for the operation of underground tools such as shovels, picks, rock bars, etc.
  • Must have the ability and experience of securing equipment and tools to trailer or truck and maintain proper load based on trailer and truck specifications.
  • Must have knowledge and ability for operation, daily maintenance inspections, of all underground equipment to assure equipment safety and reliability.
  • Must have knowledge and experience of proper conduit reel trailer loading and setup.
  • Must have knowledge and experience of reading and understanding design prints\maps and work orders.
  • Responsible for submitting necessary project information such as directional bore logs, project photos and as-built information.
  • Responsible for allocating crew for directing and controlling traffic flow in accordance with local D.O.T. guidelines, unless traffic control is sub-contracted in which case, responsible to assure that the sub-contractor personnel are effectively and correctly controlling traffic.
  • Responsible for being available 24/7 during scheduled on-call rotation.
  • Demonstrate flexibility in working hours and availability, as needed, to accommodate project demands, urgent tasks, and support for team members during peak periods or as the needs of the business dictates.
We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
  • Pay Weekly
  • Health, Vision, & Dental Insurance
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • 401k Plan
  • Paid sick leave in accordance with any applicable state or municipal laws
GridSource is a proud supporter of our U.S. military, veterans, and their families. Active military, transitioning service members and veterans are encouraged to apply. GridSource is committed to hiring, recruiting, and promoting associates without regard to race, color, gender, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, or veteran status. GridSource is an Affirmative Action Equal Opportunity Employer and will make reasonable accommodations in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.