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Entry Level Drill Rig Operator Jobs in Houston, TX

iWorkforce Solutions LP

MPD Field Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$34 - $40/hr

... Field Operator to support Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) operations in the field. The ideal ... Safely install, rig up, operate, and rig down MPD equipment on drilling locations. * Monitor and ...

NABORS

AUTOMATION ENGINEER II

Houston, TX

Ability to travel to domestic and international rig-up yards, test yards, and operating drilling rigs , approximately 25% of time worked . * Ability to climb stairs, ladders, and elevated rig ...

NABORS

MECHANICAL ENGINEER I

Houston, TX

... on land drilling rigs. This entry-level engineering role contributes to the development and ... Familiarity with hoisting equipment, pipe handling equipment, structural frames, or drilling rig ...

SLB

Digital Drilling Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

Hold performance reviews with customers. Entry level position. Authorized to work in the U.S ... Previous experiences at rig site and experience in US land unconventional (not necessarily at rig ...

Patterson-UTI

HR Advisor

Houston, TX · On-site

Frequent travel to other Company offices and drilling rig work sites, often in remote locations, is required during normal rig operating conditions (day/night, outdoor hot/cold weather), and employee ...

Patterson-UTI

HR Advisor

Houston, TX

Frequent travel to other Company offices and drilling rig work sites, often in remote locations, is required during normal rig operating conditions (day/night, outdoor hot/cold weather), and employee ...

iWorkforce Solutions LP

MPD Field Supervisor

Katy, TX · On-site

$38 - $42/hr

Coordinate with rig personnel, drilling contractors, and operators.Ensure compliance with all safety and operational procedures.What We OfferCompetitive compensation.Opportunities for career growth ...

Enterprise Offshore Drilling

Roustabout

Houston, TX · On-site

They work under the direction of the Crane Operator and will use hand and power tools to perform maintenance and repairs to drilling rig equipment. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: * Prepares ...

Transocean Ltd.

Assistant Driller

Houston, TX · On-site

$21.25 - $29/hr

Job Summary - Assist the Driller in operating drilling and mud circulating equipment as instructed ... Responsible to follow up on the working environment within the rig department. OPERATIONAL ...

Nabors

MECHANICAL ENGINEER I

Houston, TX · On-site

$55 - $75/hr

... on land drilling rigs. This entry-level engineering role contributes to the development and ... drilling rig equipment, structures, and mechanical assemblies. Support product development ...

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All JobsDrill Rig Operator JobsEntry Level Drill Rig Operator JobsEntry Level Drill Rig Operator Jobs in Houston, TX

Entry Level Drill Rig Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

$12

$26

$49

How much do entry level drill rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level drill rig operator in Houston, TX is $26.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $29.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Houston, TX?

The most popular types of Drill Rig Operator jobs in Houston, TX are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Drill Rig Operator jobs in Houston, TX?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Drill Rig Operator jobs in Houston, TX are:

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Entry Level Drill Rig Operator jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Entry Level Drill Rig Operator job openings:

Entry Level Drill Rig Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Drill Rig Operator job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,309 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

MPD Field Operator

iWorkforce Solutions LP

Houston, TX • On-site

$34 - $40/hr

Other

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

Job description

Location: Midland, TX
Pay Rate: $34.00 - $40.00 per hour (DOE)
Job Type: Full-Time | Contract

Position Summary

We are seeking experienced and safety-focused MPD Field Operator to support Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) operations in the field. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with MPD equipment, UBD operations, RCD systems, Well Control practices, choke manifolds, pressure control equipment, and drilling rig operations.

This role is responsible for the installation, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, calibration, and monitoring of MPD systems while ensuring safe and efficient drilling operations.

Required PPE
  • Steel-Toed Boots
  • Hard Hat
  • Safety Glasses
  • Gloves
  • FR Clothing
Key Responsibilities
  • Safely install, rig up, operate, and rig down MPD equipment on drilling locations.
  • Monitor and operate MPD systems, choke manifolds, and pressure control equipment.
  • Support drilling operations by maintaining constant surveillance of pressure parameters and well conditions.
  • Assist with Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD), Underbalanced Drilling (UBD), and related pressure management operations.
  • Perform preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, calibration, and repairs on MPD equipment and instrumentation.
  • Operate and maintain Rotating Control Devices (RCDs) and associated pressure control systems.
  • Assist Well Site Supervisors (WSS) with daily operational activities and reporting.
  • Develop event logs, operational reports, and End-of-Well Reports (EOWR).
  • Ensure compliance with all company, customer, and industry HSE standards.
  • Participate in risk assessments, pre-job planning, and safety meetings.
  • Provide technical support to customers, drilling contractors, and field personnel.
Required Skills & Qualifications
  • Strong understanding of Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) operations.
  • Experience with UBD (Underbalanced Drilling) and pressure control systems preferred.
  • Working knowledge of Rotating Control Devices (RCDs).
  • Understanding of Well Control principles and drilling operations.
  • Experience with MPD choke control systems and choke manifold operations.
  • Mechanical and electrical troubleshooting skills.
  • Experience calibrating pressure, flow, temperature, and instrumentation systems.
  • Ability to read technical drawings, schematics, and operational procedures.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
  • Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
Experience Requirements Required
  • Minimum 3 years of Oil & Gas field experience.
  • Minimum 2 years of experience in MPD operations.
  • Experience working on drilling rigs and wellsite operations.
  • Knowledge of Well Control procedures and pressure management.
Preferred
  • Experience with MPD, UBD, PMCD, or related drilling technologies.
  • Experience operating and maintaining RCD equipment.
  • Familiarity with MPD Choke Control Software.
  • Well Control Certification (current or previously held).
  • Experience supporting offshore or international drilling projects.
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to climb ladders and work at heights.
  • Ability to work in confined spaces and outdoor environments.
  • Must be capable of wearing all required PPE.
  • Ability to work extended hours, including overtime when necessary.
Working Conditions
  • Field-based position with travel required.
  • Rotational schedule may vary based on project requirements.
  • Typical shifts are 12–14 hours per day.
  • Candidates must be available to support troubleshooting and operational needs as required.
  • Ability to work in fast-paced, high-pressure drilling environments.

Please note that there is a background check and a drug screening for the position.

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