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Entry Level Drill Rig Operator Jobs in Houston, TX

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 ...

New

Patterson-UTI

Foreman Pad Crew PDC

Houston, TX · On-site

... drilling pads, ensuring the rig construction process adheres to operational safety standards ... Guide pad crew members, third party contractors, crane operators, and others as required * Lead pre ...

Patterson-UTI

Foreman Pad Crew PDC

Houston, TX · On-site

... drilling pads, ensuring the rig construction process adheres to operational safety standards ... Guide pad crew members, third party contractors, crane operators, and others as required * Lead pre ...

NTG Staffing

Data & Logistics Technician

Houston, TX

$23/hr

Minimum 1 year of forklift operating experience. Experience receiving materials and maintaining ... Knowledge of drilling equipment and drilling rig components. Familiarity with engines, mud pumps ...

Transocean

Crane Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

Offshore Marine Group Transocean is focused on being the employer of choice for the drilling ... Job Summary - Operate the rig's crane in a safe and efficient manner and in accordance to Company ...

Transocean Ltd.

Crane Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

Offshore Marine Group Transocean is focused on being the employer of choice for the drilling ... Job Summary - Operate the rig's crane in a safe and efficient manner and in accordance to Company ...

KLX Energy Services

Wireline Operator

Rosharon, TX · On-site

This includes drilling, completions, re-fracing, production, workover, and plug and abandonment ... Installs / disassembles (rig up/rig down) of wireline and pressure control equipment in accordance ...

Valaris

Assistant Derrickhand

Houston, TX · On-site

... including operating and maintaining drilling fluid pumping, treatment, and mixing systems. This ... Works on the rig floor and any other areas where drilling operations are being conducted when ...

Valaris

Assistant Derrickhand

Houston, TX · On-site

... including operating and maintaining drilling fluid pumping, treatment, and mixing systems. This ... Works on the rig floor and any other areas where drilling operations are being conducted when ...

Valaris

Assistant Derrickhand

Houston, TX · On-site

... including operating and maintaining drilling fluid pumping, treatment, and mixing systems. This ... Works on the rig floor and any other areas where drilling operations are being conducted when ...

Fugro

CPT Helper - Land

Houston, TX · On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

The CPT Helper with assist operators in the daily field/yard operations of the rig. i.e. handling drill pipe, mixing drill mud, and use of other equipment. This individual will be traveling ...

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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 Aug 10, 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.

How to become an entry level drill rig operator with no experience?

To become an entry-level drill rig operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should complete on-the-job training provided by employers. Some positions may require a valid driver's license and physical ability to handle the equipment, while obtaining certifications such as OSHA safety training can improve job prospects.

How do I become an entry level drill rig operator?

To become an entry-level drill rig operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should complete on-the-job training or an apprenticeship to learn equipment operation and safety procedures. Some employers may require certification in crane or heavy equipment operation, and physical fitness is important due to the demanding nature of the work environment.

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 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 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 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 40% Full Time, 58% 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.

Cathodic Protection Driller

Audubon Companies

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Audubon is currently seeking a Cathodic Protection Driller to join our team. The Cathodic Protection Driller is responsible for performing specialized drilling operations to support the installation, maintenance, and rehabilitation of cathodic protection systems for pipelines, storage tanks, utilities, and industrial infrastructure. This role operates drilling equipment to construct deep anode beds, shallow groundbeds, grounding wells, and related boreholes in accordance with engineering specifications, safety standards, and regulatory requirements. The CP Driller works closely with CP technicians, engineers, and field crews to ensure high quality, safe, and efficient project execution.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Maintains a safe, secure and healthy environment by adhering to Company and Customer safety standards and procedures
  • Operate drilling rigs and support equipment to construct boreholes for deep anode beds, shallow groundbeds, grounding wells, and CP test stations.
  • Interpret drilling plans, CP system designs, and engineering drawings to ensure boreholes meet required depth, diameter, and alignment.
  • Perform soil sampling, logging, and resistivity observations during drilling to support CP design adjustments.
  • Install anodes, vent pipes, backfill materials (e.g., coke breeze), and sealants according to CP specifications.
  • Conduct pre job equipment inspections, routine maintenance, and minor repairs on drilling equipment.
  • Coordinate with CP crews to ensure proper placement of anodes, cabling, and backfill during installation.
  • Maintain accurate drilling logs, daily reports, and documentation of borehole conditions and installation details.
  • Ensure compliance with all safety procedures, environmental regulations, and company policies.
  • Manage site setup, rig mobilization/demobilization, and safe operation in varying terrain and weather conditions.
  • Identify subsurface hazards and adjust drilling methods to maintain safety and borehole integrity.
  • Support troubleshooting of borehole issues such as collapse, fluid loss, or obstructions.
  • Communicate effectively with supervisors, engineers, clients, and field personnel regarding progress and challenges.
  • Operate drilling rigs and support equipment to construct boreholes for deep anode beds, shallow ground beds, grounding wells, and CP test stations.
  • Interpret drilling plans, CP system designs, and engineering drawings to ensure boreholes meet required depth, diameter, and alignment.
  • Perform soil sampling, logging, and resistivity observations during drilling to support CP design adjustments.
  • Install anodes, vent pipes, backfill materials (e.g., coke breeze), and sealants according to CP specifications.
  • Conduct pre job equipment inspections, routine maintenance, and minor repairs on drilling equipment.

EXPERIENCE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Education: High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Experience operating drilling rigs (e.g., auger, mud rotary, air rotary) in construction, geotechnical, environmental, or utility settings.
  • Knowledge of drilling methods applicable to CP installations, including deep anode bed construction.
  • Understanding of CP system components such as anodes, vent pipes, backfill materials, and grounding systems.
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, borehole logs, and CP installation plans.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to perform basic equipment maintenance.
  • Valid driver's license; Class A Commercial Driver License
  • Ability to lift 50+ lbs, work outdoors, and travel to project sites as required.
  • Commitment to safe work practices and adherence to OSHA and company safety standards.
  • Skills and Abilities:
  • Skilled in drilling operations, equipment handling, and borehole construction.
  • Consistently applies safe work practices and hazard mitigation.
  • Customer communication skills required
  • Able to adapt drilling methods to changing subsurface conditions.
  • Eligible to work in the U.S., without sponsorship
  • Works effectively with CP technicians, engineers, and field crew
  • Dependable, punctual, and able to manage field tasks with minimal supervision.
  • 80% Travel

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