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Entry Level Floorhand Oil Rig Jobs in California

Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and ... One-year prior work in an oilfield services environment or with/around heavy industrial machinery ...

Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and ... One-year prior work in an oilfield services environment or with/around heavy industrial machinery ...

Entry Level Floorhand Oil Rig information

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level floorhand on an oil rig?

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.

How much does an entry level floorhand oil rig make?

An entry-level floorhand on an oil rig typically earns between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on location and company. Starting pay often includes additional benefits and opportunities for overtime, with some rigs offering hazard pay for working in challenging environments.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Floorhand Oil Rig jobs in California? The most popular types of Floorhand Oil Rig jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Floorhand Oil Rig jobs in California? For Entry Level Floorhand Oil Rig jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Floorhand Oil Rig jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Floorhand Oil Rig jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Floorhand Oil Rig jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Floorhand Oil Rig job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Floorhand Oil Rig job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution.

USC - WE ARE HIRING! Drilling | California Region | Driller, Assistant Driller, Derrickhand, Motorha

Ensign Energy

Bakersfield, CA โ€ข On-site

$37.80/hr

Other

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

USC - WE ARE HIRING! Drilling | California Region | Driller, Assistant Driller, Derrickhand, Motorhand, and Floorhand
Job Summary
The Drilling Team (USC) Driller, Assistant Driller, Derrickhand, Motorhand, and Floorhand performs the duties of general manual labor on the rig and supports and assists other members of the drilling crew during all rig operations.
  • Drilling - Floorhand (USC) Bakersfield, California $27.00 an hour
  • Drilling - Motorhand (USC) Bakersfield, California $28.08 an hour
  • Drilling - Derrickhand (USC) Bakersfield, California $31.86 an hour
  • Drilling - Assistant Driller (USC) Bakersfield, California $32.94 an hour
  • Drilling - Driller (USC) Bakersfield, California $37.80 an hour

Specific Responsibilities and Accountabilities
  • Works in a safe, healthy, and environmentally protective manner
  • Operates tongs, picks up/lays down pipe and latches tubing in elevators
  • Manages tools on the work floor
  • Operates the mud pump
  • Nipples up/down BOP
  • Tallys the stands (pipe)
  • Assists in daily maintenance and housekeeping
  • Reports and corrects any unsafe work practices and safety hazards
  • Participates in all safety programs, processes and requirements
  • Attends Operations Training up to two times per year and up to five days per training at designated locations
  • Performs other duties as directed by management

Technical Competencies
  • Understands and is capable of reading all safety / training requirements and materials
  • Develops an understanding of all major rig components and the necessary servicing

Behavioral Competencies
  • Works in a manner that insures personal safety and the safety of fellow crewmembers
  • Maintains a professional, effective, and polite relationship with other Ensign employees and suppliers
  • Strives continuously to develop a greater knowledge of the total operations, including the duties and responsibilities of each position
  • Works well as a team player and demonstrates willingness to share knowledge to advance knowledge and skills of others
  • Respects chain of command and follows thru on instructions

Education and Experience
  • Prior experience in oil field, heavy industry or construction is beneficial
  • High School diploma or GED is preferred

Qualifications
  • The employee must:
    • Be at least 18 years of age
    • Pass a post-offer physical examination, fitness testing, safety aptitude test, drug tests & background check
    • Provide proof of and maintain proper legal authorization to work in the United States
    • Arrange for reliable transportation to and from work and training locations
    • Speak and read English well enough to understand verbal and written safety postings, alerts and announcements, communicate with co-workers and be able to participate in job safety analysis meetings

Other Accountabilities
  • Business Ethics - Understands fully Ensign's ethics policy and its application in all business dealings including contractual agreements and contract negotiations
  • Business Policies - Understands and agrees to follow all of Ensign's Policy and Directives and procedures as set forth in the Ensign Company Policy and Basic Directives Handbook for Employees
  • Certifications - Maintains technical and safety certifications required by company or government agencies; remains current on all OSHA, EUSD and other required training
  • Drug-free workplace - Conforms to a drug-free workplace, not be under the influence of mind-altering prescription or non-prescription drugs, including alcohol and other drugs of abuse.

Occupational Health and Safety - Understands fully the Ensign Health and Safety policy and self-responsibility for own health and safety at work; Demonstrates responsibility to avoid adversely affecting the health and safety of others through any act or omission
  • Uses the correct protective clothing and equipment as provided by Ensign and guards against misuse or damage to such equipment
  • Reports any hazardous situations arising in the workplace that cannot be self-corrected, or injury incurred during the course of work, no matter how minor
  • Avoids injury resulting from manual handling tasks, by use of risk assessment, correct mechanical handling equipment and correct manual handling techniques

Ensign United States Drilling Inc. is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. Ensign provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by law. Ensign takes affirmative action to employ, advance in employment and otherwise treat qualified individuals without discrimination as required by law.