2

Entry Level Drilling Rig Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Drilling Rig information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$14

$27

$43

How much do entry level drilling rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level drilling rig in Pennsylvania is $27.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.16 and $30.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level drilling rig job?

Entry level drilling rig jobs are positions on an oil or gas drilling site that require little to no prior industry experience. These roles often include positions such as roustabout, roughneck, or floorhand, where employees are responsible for basic labor tasks like equipment maintenance, cleaning, and assisting more experienced crew members. Entry level workers receive on-the-job training and have opportunities to advance to more skilled positions as they gain experience. These jobs can be physically demanding and often require working outdoors in challenging conditions. Safety training and adherence to strict protocols are essential parts of the work.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level drilling rig workers, and how can they prepare for them?

Entry-level drilling rig workers often face physically demanding tasks, long shifts, and exposure to harsh weather conditions. Adapting to the fast-paced, safety-focused environment can be challenging, especially for those new to industrial settings. Building physical stamina, learning safety protocols thoroughly, and maintaining good communication with team members can help new hires succeed. It's also important to be adaptable, as responsibilities can shift quickly based on operational needs.

How to become an entry level drilling rig with no experience?

To become an entry-level drilling rig worker, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must pass a physical exam. On-the-job training is provided, and having basic knowledge of safety procedures, physical fitness, and willingness to work in challenging environments is important; some positions may require certifications like OSHA or HAZWOPER. Prior experience is not usually required for entry-level roles, which focus on training new workers on equipment and safety protocols.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Drilling Rig worker, you need physical stamina, basic mechanical aptitude, willingness to work long hours, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with safety protocols, basic hand tools, and sometimes certifications like H2S Alive or First Aid are typically required. Dependability, teamwork, and strong communication skills are valuable soft skills in this physically demanding, team-oriented environment. These attributes are crucial for maintaining safety, efficiency, and productivity on drilling sites.

What is the difference between Entry Level Drilling Rig vs Entry Level Oilfield Worker?

AspectEntry Level Drilling RigEntry Level Oilfield Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certificationsHigh school diploma, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentOn-site at drilling locations, outdoor, physically demandingOn-site at oilfield locations, outdoor, physically demanding
Industry UsageSpecifically involved in drilling operationsBroader oilfield tasks including maintenance and support
Job FocusAssisting with drilling operations, equipment setupSupporting various oilfield activities, equipment handling

Both roles require safety certifications and involve outdoor, physically demanding work environments. The main difference is that Entry Level Drilling Rigs focus specifically on assisting with drilling operations, while Entry Level Oilfield Workers have a broader scope supporting multiple oilfield tasks.

What are the most commonly searched types of Drilling Rig jobs in Pennsylvania? The most popular types of Drilling Rig jobs in Pennsylvania are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Drilling Rig jobs in Pennsylvania? For Entry Level Drilling Rig jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Drilling Rig jobs in Pennsylvania look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Drilling Rig jobs in Pennsylvania are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Drilling Rig job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,396 per year, or $27.6 per hour.

Rig Hand I - Next LVL Energy

Diversified Gas & Oil Corporation

Rochester Mills, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

COMPANY PROFILE
Diversified Gas & Oil Corporation ("DGOC") is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Diversified Energy Company PLC, a US-based company listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and London Stock Exchange (LSE) under the ticker symbol "DEC". Diversified Gas & Oil Corporation (DGOC) is an established owner and operator of producing conventional and unconventional natural gas & oil wells and midstream pipelines and compression stations concentrated in the Appalachian Basin in the United States. Headquartered in Birmingham, AL, our field operations are located throughout the Appalachian Basin in the states of Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, West Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. In 2021, Diversified announced our expansion into our Central Regional Focus Area, which includes producing areas within Louisiana, Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas.
POSITION SUMMARY & RESPONSIBILITIES:
The Rig Hand I is considered a Rig Hand in training or entry level Rig Hand. They work under the direction of the Rig Foreman or a senior Rig Hand and use basic skills to complete routine assigned tasks. They are responsible for safely and efficiently conducting the maintenance and day-to-day operation of the service rigs throughout West Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. Diversified offers competitive benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance, short- and long-term disability, life insurance, PTO, paid holidays, and 401(k).
Special focus will be placed on:
  • Assist in the setup and operation of plugging rigs.
  • Safely handle and transport drilling tools, equipment and materials.
  • Rig up and rig down equipment as required for plugging and abandonment tasks.
  • Utilize rig equipment (tongs, slips, elevators, and winch line) to safely perform plugging operations.
  • Assist in loading and off-loading pipe and other items from the truck/trailer to the rig.
  • Pick up and lay down tubing. o Lift, remove, install and operate well head pump.
  • Position, lift, attach, install and work with matting boards, tubing, rods, casing and associated well equipment such as rod strippers, polish rods, etc.
  • Operate rod wrenches, tongs, elevators and other associated rig tools and equipment.
  • Strictly adhere to all safety regulations and guidelines to maintain a safe working environment.
  • Report any safety hazards, near misses, or incidents promptly.
  • Attend and participate in all safety meetings and trainings.
  • Complete required work plans and job safety analysis.
  • Perform routine maintenance on rig equipment to ensure it operates efficiently and safely.
  • Conduct daily checks and inspections of rig equipment and tools.
  • Report any equipment malfunctions or issues for repair or replacement.
  • Clean and maintain rig tools and equipment.
  • Perform general maintenance of draw works.
  • Work closely with rig crew members, cementers, and truck drivers to ensure seamless operations.
  • Communicate effectively with supervisors and team members to meet project goals and deadlines.
  • Operate crew truck in a safe and lawful manner and in accordance with company policy.
  • Perform other tasks and support functions per management discretion.
  • Participate in pressure testing and well integrity checks.
  • Perform services on oil and gas wells.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Valid driver license. CDL a plus.
  • Knowledge of and commitment to safety procedures and regulations.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a team.
  • Willingness and ability to work in various weather and well site conditions.
  • Willingness and ability to work in physically demanding conditions.
  • Willingness to travel to remote well sites and stay away from home.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions
  • Must be able to move or traverse from one location on the job site to another. This includes the ability to remain in a stationary position for extended periods, frequently positioning oneself (e.g., to stoop, kneel, or squat) to perform tasks, and occasionally ascend/descend (e.g., ladders or uneven terrain)
  • Ability to detect, determine, perceive, identify, recognize, judge, observe, inspect, estimate, and assess driving operations effectively (either naturally or with corrective lenses).
  • Ability to operate a 4X4 vehicle.
  • Must be able to repetitively move or position feet, shoulders, arms, wrists, and back. Constantly operates, uses, and positions hands and fingers in performance of work
  • Must be able to work atop elevated surfaces and traverse various heights
  • Lifts or carries 67 lbs. or more, which falls into the "heavy" category (over 50 pounds).
  • Frequently pushes and pulls with a maximum force of 100 ft./lbs.
  • Constantly works in outdoor weather conditions and is exposed to varying environmental conditions, including well site conditions. The position requires the ability to perform tasks in physically demanding environments, encompassing the essential physical requirements and efforts outline

The Employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.
Driver Requirements:
  • Must possess a valid driver's license and maintain a clean driving record
  • This position involves operating a company vehicle for work-related travel or receiving a stipend for operating a personal vehicle for company use; adherence to all traffic laws and company vehicle policies is required.
  • Candidates must be eligible to be insured under the company's vehicle insurance policy.