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Entry Level Drilling Rig Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

... for entry-level positions and internships Build relationships with educational institutions to ... Occasional travel to other Company offices and drilling rig work sites, often in remote locations ...

... skills for entry-level positions and internships • Build relationships with educational ... Occasional travel to other Company offices and drilling rig work sites, often in remote locations ...

Operations Administrator

Houston, TX · On-site

$45K - $50K/yr

... offshore drilling rigs worldwide. The Company's rental and sold solutions, which include data ... Organize the logistics of field level new hire orientation, entry level training and continuous ...

Operations Administrator

Houston, TX · Hybrid

$45K - $50K/yr

... offshore drilling rigs worldwide. The Company's rental and sold solutions, which include data ... Organize the logistics of field level new hire orientation, entry level training and continuous ...

Entry Level Drilling Rig information

See Houston, TX salary details

$14

$26

$41

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

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level drilling rig in Houston, TX is $26.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.11 and $28.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level drilling rig jobs?

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 workers on a drilling rig, 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.

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

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.

How much do beginner oil rig workers make?

Entry-level drilling rig workers typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on location, company, and experience. Starting salaries often increase with certifications, such as Basic Safety Training, and on-the-job skills development.

What jobs pay $4000 a week without a degree?

Entry-level drilling rig jobs, such as roustabouts or roughnecks, can pay around $1,000 to $2,500 per week, but higher-paying positions like drilling supervisors or specialized roles may reach or exceed $4,000 weekly with experience and certifications. These jobs often require physical fitness, safety training, and on-the-job learning rather than formal degrees.

What is an entry level position on an oil rig?

An entry level position on an oil rig typically includes roles such as roustabout or roughneck, which involve general labor, equipment maintenance, and assisting more experienced workers. These positions often require physical fitness, basic safety training, and may lead to advanced roles with experience and additional certifications.

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.

How do I get offshore with no experience?

Entry level drilling rig positions offshore typically require a high school diploma or equivalent and may involve completing safety and basic technical training. Gaining certifications such as Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET) and demonstrating a willingness to work in demanding environments can improve chances of employment without prior experience.
What are the most commonly searched types of Drilling Rig jobs in Houston, TX? The most popular types of Drilling Rig jobs in Houston, TX are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Drilling Rig jobs in Houston, TX? For Entry Level Drilling Rig jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Drilling Rig jobs in Houston, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Drilling Rig jobs in Houston, TX are:
What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Entry Level Drilling Rig jobs? Cities near Houston, TX with the most Entry Level Drilling Rig job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Drilling Rig job openings in Houston, TX as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,680 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

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Re-posted 14 days ago


Patterson-UTI rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

81st of 86 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

Brief Description:

The Early Career Program Recruiter is responsible for delivering all facets of recruiting success throughout the organization, specifically focusing on college, trade schools, and the military. This will be achieved through the development of local recruiting plans, employing traditional sourcing strategies and on-campus/base resources, as well as developing new, creative recruiting ideas. The Early Career Recruiting department plays a critical role in creating a robust talent pipeline on campus by communicating the Patterson-UTI brand to prospective early career candidates while supporting our overall talent strategy.

A successful candidate will: set high standards of performance for themselves and others; be professional in written, verbal, and personal communications in any situation; seek opportunities to learn and develop new skills, knowledge, and experiences; and have an analytical mindset that can utilize factual data to develop creative and business-oriented solutions; be self-aware and adjust accordingly to different environments and audiences; and be flexible to adapt and adjust to an ever-changing work environment.

This role will work under the direction of the Recruiting Manager and will align and coordinate activities with other Talent Acquisition (TA) and Human Resources (HR) functions, both locally and regionally.

Detailed Description:

Responsibilities include planning events, presenting to groups of students, screening resumes, conducting interviews, and assessing skills for entry-level positions and internships

Build relationships with educational institutions to promote the company's brand and attract talented individuals

Organize and coordinate the logistics at the events

Work with business leaders to create, plan, and execute an impactful Internship experience

Post and advertise open roles to relevant career sites and social media, as well as alumni and veteran communities

Work with HR, Hiring Managers, and other stakeholders to develop and deliver effective recruiting plans in a high-volume, fast-paced environment

Conduct regular follow-ups with Company HR and/or Hiring Managers regarding the status of candidates and positions

Process and disposition applicants utilizing the Company's applicant tracking system in compliance with established standards and processes

Track metrics of university candidate success, including volume, quality, success rate, acceptance, and conversion rate, and other factors to make better decisions for future partnerships for the NexTier brand

Extend job offers and coach candidates throughout the hiring process

Provide reports to management on recruiting activity, metrics and statistics, including reporting for EEO and related recordkeeping purposes

Track outreach activity

Develop and maintain a pipeline of qualified candidates

Other duties as assigned

Job Requirements:

Detail-oriented and strong communication (written and oral) and interpersonal skills

Ability to handle a dynamic work environment within defined deadlines

Ability to organize and prioritize work with consistent follow-through

Proven ability to work well in a team-oriented environment

Motivated "self-starter"; able to work independently.

Demonstrates a high level of customer service skills in dealing with internal and external customers

Experience recruiting candidates in various categories such as general and skilled labor, Engineering, and office/professional positions

Experience with applicant tracking systems

Ability to prepare reports in MS Excel and analyze data for trends and compliance. Strong computer skills in MS Excel, Word, and Outlook

Ability to maintain Company and employee confidentiality to handle sensitive employee information and protect Company proprietary information in an appropriate manner

Ability to travel to attend job fairs, hiring events, military bases, and regional office locations, which may require travel to remote locations and/or overnight stay(s) outside the normal office area

Ability to travel up to 100% of the time during peak recruiting season

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree or equivalent military leadership experience at the rank of E-5 (Sergeant / Petty Officer Second Class) or higher

Preferred Qualifications:

1 year of recruiting experience on campus at Tech Schools, colleges, and/or military bases.

Experience in Recruiting, Hiring, or Human Resources

Experience with Oracle Recruiting Cloud (ORC)

Experience creating analytics within Excel

Additional Details:

Work is primarily in a climate-controlled / office environment with minimal safety / health hazard potential. The employee is regularly required to sit, stand, or walk with occasional lifting (overhead, waist level) from floor, bending and frequent near vision use for reading and use of computer, telephone and other office equipment. Occasional travel to other Company offices and drilling rig work sites, often in remote locations may be required during normal rig operating conditions (day/night, outdoor hot/cold weather), and employee will be expected to properly use designated personal protective equipment (PPE).

**Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. This role does not offer visa sponsorship now or in the future.

 #LI-VMI

Patterson-UTI Central Support Services, LLC is a shared services company that provides centralized functional support to the different business segments. These functions, which include areas such as Human Resources, Legal, Accounting/Finance, Information Technology, and Marketing and Communications, drive efficiency, manage risks, recruit and develop staff, and support the growth and innovation of the organization.


Patterson-UTI is committed to a workplace free from discrimination and harassment, offering equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of personal characteristics protected by law. Employees are encouraged to report any concerns through multiple channels.



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