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Entry Level Floorhand Oil Rig Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Floorhand Department: * Operations Location: * Field-Based Direct Report: * Driller Summary: * The ... oil levels, and replenishes the various fuel tanks * Performs routine maintenance on Rig which ...

North Dakota Area Floorhand North Dakota area floorhand positions or entry level rig-based positions located in North Dakota. This position is responsible for performing various manual labor tasks ...

Floorhand

Weston, WV · On-site

Floorhand Department: * Operations Location: * Field-Based Direct Report: * Driller Summary: * The ... oil levels, and replenishes the various fuel tanks * Performs routine maintenance on Rig which ...

North Dakota Area Floorhand North Dakota area floorhand positions or entry level rig-based positions located in North Dakota. This position is responsible for performing various manual labor tasks ...

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Entry Level Floorhand Oil Rig information

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$11

$31

$54

How much do entry level floorhand oil rig jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level floorhand oil rig in the United States is $31.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $43.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Floorhand on an oil rig, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Floorhand on an oil rig, you need physical stamina, mechanical aptitude, a high school diploma or equivalent, and a commitment to safety. Familiarity with basic rig tools, heavy machinery, and safety certifications like H2S Alive or First Aid/CPR is often required. Strong teamwork, communication, and the ability to follow instructions under pressure are vital soft skills. These abilities ensure efficient operations, minimize accidents, and support a safe, productive rig environment.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level floorhands on oil rigs, and how can they be overcome?

Entry-level floorhands often encounter challenges such as adapting to physically demanding work, long shifts, and harsh weather conditions. Teamwork is essential, as tasks like handling drilling equipment and maintaining rig cleanliness require close collaboration with more experienced crew members. New floorhands can overcome these challenges by staying proactive about safety, asking questions, and learning from seasoned colleagues. Building physical endurance and maintaining a positive attitude also help ensure a smoother transition into the oilfield environment.

What does an Entry Level Floorhand do on an oil rig?

An Entry Level Floorhand, also known as a roughneck, is responsible for assisting with the general operations and maintenance on an oil rig. Their duties include handling drilling equipment, cleaning and organizing the rig floor, connecting and disconnecting drill pipes, and following safety procedures. Floorhands work under the supervision of more experienced crew members and are essential for keeping the drilling process running smoothly. This role is physically demanding and often requires working long shifts in challenging conditions.

What is the difference between Entry Level Floorhand Oil Rig vs Entry Level Roustabout Oil Rig?

AspectEntry Level Floorhand Oil RigEntry Level Roustabout Oil Rig
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, safety certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentOn drilling floor, physically demanding, outdoorOn deck and around rig, physically demanding, outdoor
Industry UsageCommonly used term for entry-level rig workersOften used interchangeably, but slightly broader role

Both roles are entry-level positions requiring similar certifications and work environments. The term 'Floorhand' specifically refers to workers on the drilling floor, while 'Roustabout' can encompass a broader range of manual labor tasks around the rig. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right position in the oil industry.

More about Entry Level Floorhand Oil Rig jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Floorhand Oil Rig jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Floorhand Oil Rig job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Floorhand Oil Rig jobs? The most popular types of Floorhand Oil Rig jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Floorhand Oil Rig jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Floorhand Oil Rig jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Floorhand Oil Rig jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Floorhand Oil Rig jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Floorhand Oil Rig job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,283 per year, or $31.9 per hour.

Job description

Company:

  • Highlands Drilling

Position:

  • Floorhand

Department:

  • Operations

Location:

  • Field-Based

Direct Report:

  • Driller

Summary:

  • The floorhand operates and maintains the rig floor including drill pipe, hosing equipment (winch cat line), tongs, slips and pump systems as direct by the driller. During non-drilling operations, the rig hand's work activities include repair and maintenance of the drilling equipment as directed by the driller, mechanic, or toolpusher. During relocation of the drilling rig, the rig hand assists in positioning of the drill rig on and off location.

Responsibilities:

  • Participates in pre-tour and subsequent safety/JSA/toolbox talk meetings
  • Understands and takes action on "Stop Work Authority" when appropriate
  • Conducts routine and pre-use equipment inspections with proper documentation
  • Properly inspects, maintains and uses all Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in accordance with company standards and safety policies
  • Follows all Company safety policies and procedures
  • Reports to driller upon timely task completions
  • Assist driller during operations which require running tallies or completing physical tasks
  • Utilizes rig equipment (tongs, slips, elevators, and winch line) to safely perform drilling operations in accordance with client specifications
  • After reaching specified drill depth, assist the driller with pulling and running pipe into and out of well: make and break connections
  • This task may be performed several times per shift and may be completed continuously throughout the shift pending status of project
  • Assist driller in running tubing, fishing tools, mud, grout, and casing into and out of the well
  • Ensures fuel levels, oil levels, and replenishes the various fuel tanks
  • Performs routine maintenance on Rig which includes both mechanical and cosmetic washing of the rig components and surface
  • Participates in housekeeping activities: cleaning, washing, and painting of rig and rig support equipment
  • Complete all other duties as assigned/directed by driller or tool pusher

Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED, preferred

Experience:

  • Previous experience as righand, floorhand, derrickhand preferred
  • Previous experience in a high paced safety sensitive work environment preferred
  • Working knowledge of oil/gas operations preferred

Skills & Abilities:

  • Able to communicate and comprehend the efforts of others
  • Able to think and act quickly
  • Able to work in a team environment
  • Must be organized and attentive to details in a fast paced working environment
  • Able to multi-task, stay organized and close out assigned tasks
  • Able to operate independently and make safe decisions regarding personal conduct
  • Able to work for extended periods of time in harsh weather conditions
  • Able to think and act independently to ensure personal and team success and safety
  • Must be able to work flexible hours and travel

Certifications:

  • MSHA Part 48, preferred
  • OSHA 10 Certification or greater, preferred

Travel:

  • Must be willing to travel

Physical Requirements:

  • The individual must be able to wear and properly utilize appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to work or visit within areas where it is required
  • This includes hard hat, safety glasses, life vest, respirators, ear plugs, steel toed shoes, or other protective equipment as required by the work performed and location the work is being done
  • Walking, stepping, climbing or otherwise moving from one location on the job site to another, and normally involves physically getting into and out of equipment through the use of vertical mounted ladders up to and including 10' or more in height
  • Visually seeing driving operations well (either naturally or with corrective lenses)
  • Standing, stooping kneeling, squatting, climbing and sitting
  • Repetitive movements by feet, shoulders, arms, wrists, hands and back in performance of work
  • Working at elevated heights
  • Lifting 50 lb. objects occasionally and carrying 50 lb. objects occasionally
  • Adapting to outdoor conditions and prolonged exposure to sometimes adverse weather conditions
  • Remaining calm during emergencies and respond appropriately as dictated by the circumstance of the incident
  • Exposure to working outdoors in all-weather conditions
  • Ability to work more than 40 hours in any given week including weekend assignments and holidays as required

EEO:

  • SDI HD Holding LLC DBA Highlands Drilling is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabilities and protected veteran status