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Entry Level Drill Rig Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Valley Well Drilling, LLC

Water Well Driller

Reno, NV

$55K - $100K/yr

Oahu and Kauai Pay: ($55,000 - $100,000 per year) based on experience Overview We are seeking a skilled and dedicated Drill Rig Operator to join our team in the water well industry located in Hawaii.

Valley Well Drilling, LLC

Water Well Driller

Helena, MT

$55K - $100K/yr

Oahu and Kauai Pay: ($55,000 - $100,000 per year) based on experience Overview We are seeking a skilled and dedicated Drill Rig Operator to join our team in the water well industry located in Hawaii.

Valley Well Drilling, LLC

Water Well Driller

Miami, FL

$55K - $100K/yr

Oahu and Kauai Pay: ($55,000 - $100,000 per year) based on experience Overview We are seeking a skilled and dedicated Drill Rig Operator to join our team in the water well industry located in Hawaii.

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Entry Level Drill Rig Operator information

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

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level drill rig operator in the United States is $27.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $31.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Drill Rig Operator, and why are they important?

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 are Entry Level Drill Rig Operators?

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.

More about Entry Level Drill Rig Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Drill Rig Operator jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Drill Rig Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Drill Rig Operator jobs? The most popular types of Drill Rig Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Drill Rig Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Drill Rig Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Drill Rig Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Drill Rig Operator jobs are:
Entry Level Drill Rig Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Drill Rig Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,917 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Cone Penetrometer (CPT) Rig Operator

Thompson Engineering

Westlake, LA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Summary

Thompson Engineering is looking for a highly motivated and skilled Cone Penetrometer (CPT) Rig Operator to join our dynamic geotechnical drilling team. We're seeking an experienced operator to safely and efficiently run our CPT rigs, collecting high-quality geotechnical data across diverse subsurface conditions. This role demands a strong grasp of CPT principles, mechanical expertise, meticulous attention to detail, and an unwavering commitment to safety.

Key Responsibilities

As a CPT Rig Operator, you will:

  • Rig Operations: Safely mobilize, set up, operate, and demobilize CPT rigs at various project sites.
  • Data Acquisition: Conduct CPT soundings per project specifications and industry standards, ensuring precise collection of tip resistance (qc), sleeve friction (fs), and pore water pressure (u2) data.
  • Equipment Maintenance: Perform routine maintenance, proactive troubleshooting, and minor repairs to CPT rigs and associated equipment (e.g., cones, rods, hydraulic systems).
  • Calibration: Assist with or execute regular calibration checks of CPT cones and data acquisition systems to guarantee data accuracy.
  • Safety Compliance: Strictly adhere to all company safety policies, procedures, and OSHA regulations. Conduct daily safety checks, actively participate in tailgate safety meetings, and promptly report any hazards or incidents.
  • Documentation: Accurately complete daily field logs, sounding reports, maintenance records, and all other required documentation.
  • Site Management: Maintain a clean, organized, and environmentally compliant work area.
  • Collaboration: Work effectively with project managers, geotechnical engineers, field technicians, and other team members to achieve project goals.
  • Troubleshooting: Identify and resolve operational issues or data anomalies during CPT sounding.
  • Mobility: Be prepared for frequent travel to various job sites, including remote locations and challenging terrains, potentially involving extended periods away from home.

Qualifications

Education

  • Required: High School Diploma or GED.
  • Preferred: Technical schooling or vocational training in heavy equipment operation, mechanics, or a related field.
  • A Plus: Degree in Geology or a related field with a concentration in soils.

Experience

  • Required: Minimum of 2-3 years of experience operating heavy equipment, preferably within the geotechnical, drilling, or construction industry.
  • Highly Preferred: Prior experience specifically operating CPT rigs.
  • A Plus: Familiarity with various CPT cone types (e.g., standard, piezocone, seismic cone).

Technical Skills

  • Proficient in reading and interpreting project plans, specifications, and safety guidelines.
  • Basic mechanical aptitude for troubleshooting and maintenance of equipment.
  • Familiarity with data logging software and basic computer skills for data transfer.

Certifications/Licenses

  • Required: Valid Driver's License with a clean driving record.
  • Preferred/Required (depending on rig size): CDL (Class A or B).
  • Highly Desirable: OSHA 10-hour or 30-hour Construction Safety certification.
  • A Plus: First Aid/CPR certification.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to lift and carry heavy objects (up to 50 lbs.) regularly.
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, and kneel for extended periods.
  • Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, etc.).
  • Good vision and hearing, with or without correction, to safely and effectively operate equipment.

Soft Skills

  • Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Strong problem-solving abilities.
  • Reliable, punctual, and highly self-motivated.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.
  • Unwavering commitment to safety.

Benefits

  • Competitive salary
  • Health
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid Time Off
  • Training and development opportunities.

Apply