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Entry Level Drill Rig Operator Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

US LBM

CDL Driver Boom Crane

Trenton, NJ · On-site

$27 - $30/hr

Certified Drill Rig Operator-NCCCO Boom Certification preferred - maintain active accredited certification for equipment type (e.g. NCCCO, NCCER, CIC) preferred. * Class A CDL License required.

Universal Supply Co.

CDL Driver Boom Crane

Kimberton, PA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Certified Drill Rig Operator-NCCCO Boom Certification preferred - maintain active accredited certification for equipment type (e.g. NCCCO, NCCER, CIC) preferred. * Class A CDL License required.

US LBM Holdings

CDL Driver Boom Crane

Kimberton, PA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Certified Drill Rig Operator-NCCCO Boom Certification preferred - maintain active accredited certification for equipment type (e.g. NCCCO, NCCER, CIC) preferred. * Class A CDL License required.

Universal Supply Co.

CDL Driver Boom Crane

Trenton, NJ · On-site

$27 - $30/hr

Certified Drill Rig Operator-NCCCO Boom Certification preferred - maintain active accredited certification for equipment type (e.g. NCCCO, NCCER, CIC) preferred. * Class A CDL License required.

US LBM Holdings

CDL Driver Boom Crane

Trenton, NJ · On-site

$27 - $30/hr

Certified Drill Rig Operator-NCCCO Boom Certification preferred - maintain active accredited certification for equipment type (e.g. NCCCO, NCCER, CIC) preferred. * Class A CDL License required.

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All JobsDrill Rig Operator JobsEntry Level Drill Rig Operator JobsEntry Level Drill Rig Operator Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

Entry Level Drill Rig Operator information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$13

$28

$51

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

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level drill rig operator in Philadelphia, PA is $28.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.11 and $31.30 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 popular job titles related to Entry Level Drill Rig Operator jobs in Philadelphia, PA?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Drill Rig Operator job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 43% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,443 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Geotechnical Driller (Operating Engineer)

King Of Prussia, PA • On-site

Schnabel
Real Estate • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Schnabelexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate drill rigs and associated equipment safely and properly.

  • Record drilling parameters, production data, and daily progress reports, and communicate with the job site supervisor.

  • Assist with the installation of tieback anchors, soldier beams, micropiles, and other structural supports as part of geotechnical construction projects.

Job description

THE COMPANY:

Schnabel is a nationally recognized specialty contractor with over 65 years of experience in geostructural design-build and underground construction. With a portfolio of thousands of successful projects across the country, we are known for delivering smart, safe, and cost-effective solutions to complex engineering challenges. We specialize in advanced earth retention systems and other innovative geostructural techniques that create stable, lasting foundations for buildings, infrastructure, and other critical structures. At Schnabel, we combine technical expertise with a hands-on approach to ensure every project starts on solid ground.

ROLE:

Schnabel is seeking an Operating Engineer to assist with the building of specialty underground structures. Our goal is to find a Geotechnical Drill Operator or equipment operator with experience in the safe operation of tieback and micropile drills (Klemm, Comacchio, Hutte) related to geotechnical construction. Heavy preference to those that can operate vertical drill rigs (Bauer / Liebherr).

As a driller you will work with your project manager and field supervisor to install tieback anchors, soldier beams, micropiles, and more.

Our typical scope of work includes installation of piles, lagging, walers, tiebacks, and braces for support of excavation projects. We also take on challenging projects with underpinning, grouting, tunneling, and unique structural support as part of our scope. Candidates having direct construction experience and familiarity with our company’s traditional scope of work are preferred.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Be responsible for safe and proper operation or drill rigs and associated equipment.
  • Follow all of Schnabel’s safety regulations.
  • Complete inspection and maintenance logs, and documentation as required.
  • Record drilling parameters, production data, and daily progress reports, while maintaining open and clear communication to job site supervisor.
  • Clean drill rigs, trucks, and equipment.
  • Clear and maintain a clean work environment without debris or potential hazards.
  • Work closely with site leadership to ensure that scope of work is being met within a timely schedule and meeting production rates.
  • Manage your scope of work appropriately to minimize job cost.
  • Always wear appropriate PPE, as assigned by job site supervisor.
  • Exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and dust.

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Minimum of 2 years of documented experience operating drill rigs proficiently.
  • High level of focus in a construction environment that is very busy and noisy.
  • Current certification for vertical and/or tieback drill rig or willing to obtain certification.
  • Focus, stand, walk, kneel, climb, bend, and work from heights or within confined space during assigned shift.
  • Ability to pass pre-employment drug test.
  • Local and regional travel as required for projects.
  • Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds of materials over rough terrain.
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Driver’s license, reliable transportation, and a safe driving record.
  • Follow all safety procedures, use proper protective equipment, and help maintain a safe job site by identifying and reporting potential hazards.

SAFETY:

Support the company’s safety and risk management objectives by adhering to established procedures, proactively identifying and addressing potential risks, and contributing to the achievement of safety goals through the use of metrics and continuous improvement efforts.

Don’t hurt yourself, don’t hurt anyone else, and don’t let anyone hurt you; a simple philosophy that has been adopted at Schnabel. We live by this belief to provide a safe and healthy workplace for all our employees and subcontractors.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay Range $37.74 - $50.00+ per hour

Schnabel is a union contractor and as such, your benefits are made available based on your union affiliation. Through hard work and reliability