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Entry Level Offshore Drilling Rig Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

SLB

OSS Tree Engineer

Houston, TX · Hybrid

OneSubsea provides a complete range of flow control equipment and services for offshore drilling rig systems including subsea production, measurement and processing systems. OneSubsea delivers ...

Schlumberger Limited

OSS Tree Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

OneSubsea provides a complete range of flow control equipment and services for offshore drilling rig systems including subsea production, measurement and processing systems. OneSubsea delivers ...

New

NABORS

MECHANICAL ENGINEER I

Houston, TX

... on land drilling rigs. This entry-level engineering role contributes to the development and ... Familiarity with hoisting equipment, pipe handling equipment, structural frames, or drilling rig ...

SLB

OSS Tree Engineer

Houston, TX · Hybrid

OneSubsea provides a complete range of flow control equipment and services for offshore drilling rig systems including subsea production, measurement and processing systems. OneSubsea delivers ...

HMH

Lead Service Engineer

Odessa, TX · On-site

$103K - $136K/yr

... Onshore/Offshore drilling rigs. This role applies advanced technical knowledge of electrical ... and rig crews on safe operation and repair procedures, and promotes adherence to the HMH HSE ...

SLB

Digital Drilling Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

Hold performance reviews with customers. Entry level position. Authorized to work in the U.S ... Previous experiences at rig site and experience in US land unconventional (not necessarily at rig ...

3010 HYDRIL USA DISTRIBUTION

Lead Service Tech

Odessa, TX · On-site

$55 - $75/hr

... Onshore/Offshore drilling rigs. This role applies advanced technical knowledge of electrical ... and rig crews on safe operation and repair procedures, and promotes adherence to the HMH HSE ...

New

HMH

Lead Service Tech

Odessa, TX · On-site

... Onshore/Offshore drilling rigs. This role applies advanced technical knowledge of electrical ... and rig crews on safe operation and repair procedures, and promotes adherence to the HMH HSE ...

HMH

Lead Service Engineer

Odessa, TX · On-site

$103K - $136K/yr

... Onshore/Offshore drilling rigs. This role applies advanced technical knowledge of electrical ... and rig crews on safe operation and repair procedures, and promotes adherence to the HMH HSE ...

HMH

Lead Service Tech

Odessa, TX · On-site

... Onshore/Offshore drilling rigs. This role applies advanced technical knowledge of electrical ... and rig crews on safe operation and repair procedures, and promotes adherence to the HMH HSE ...

Altrad Sparrows

Onshore Industrial Mechanic A

Houston, TX · On-site

$23.50 - $30.50/hr

We specialize in delivering structured and tailored solutions to meet our clients' lifting, mechanical handling, and fluid power requirements, whether that's on a drilling rig, a fixed offshore ...

Valaris

Assistant Driller

Houston, TX · On-site

$22 - $29.75/hr

... rig floor and associated areas to Valaris drilling standards with a particular focus on clear escape routes and walkways. Qualifications / Experience * Three (3) years offshore experience.

NABORS

Project Engineer I

Houston, TX

... rig crew functions is considered a benefit. * Knowledge of code requirements pertaining to the design, construction, safety, and operation of both land and offshore drilling rigs including but not ...

Valaris

Assistant Driller

Houston, TX · On-site

$22 - $29.75/hr

... rig floor and associated areas to Valaris drilling standards with a particular focus on clear escape routes and walkways. Qualifications / Experience * Three (3) years offshore experience.

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Entry Level Offshore Drilling Rig information

See Texas salary details

$18

$38

$65

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

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level offshore drilling rig in Texas is $38.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.02 and $41.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level offshore drilling rig?

Entry level offshore drilling rig jobs are positions on oil or gas rigs that require little to no prior experience in the industry. Common roles include roustabout, roughneck, or floorhand, where employees handle general labor tasks, assist with equipment, and maintain safety standards. These jobs are physically demanding, often involve working long shifts in challenging conditions, and are a starting point for advancing to more specialized positions on the rig. Training is typically provided on the job, and workers must adhere strictly to safety protocols.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Offshore Drilling Rig Worker, you need physical stamina, basic mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with safety protocols, personal protective equipment (PPE), and certifications such as Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET) are typically required. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication are essential soft skills due to the challenging and remote work environment. These skills and qualifications are important to ensure safety, operational efficiency, and effective collaboration on offshore rigs.

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

Entry-level workers on offshore drilling rigs often face challenges such as adapting to long shifts, working in physically demanding and sometimes harsh environmental conditions, and adjusting to an extended time away from home. Safety is a top priority, so following strict protocols and being vigilant about hazards is essential. New hires can prepare by focusing on physical fitness, familiarizing themselves with safety procedures, and being open to learning from experienced crew members, which will help them succeed and thrive in this unique work environment.

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

AspectEntry Level Offshore Drilling RigEntry Level Oilfield Roustabout
CredentialsHigh School diploma, safety certificationsHigh School diploma, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentOn offshore drilling platforms, demanding conditionsOn oilfield sites, onshore or offshore
Industry UsagePrimarily on drilling rigs for exploration/extractionSupport roles on oilfields, assisting with equipment and maintenance
Job FocusAssisting drilling operations, safety proceduresGeneral labor, equipment handling, site maintenance

Both roles require safety certifications and involve working in demanding environments. The main difference is that Entry Level Offshore Drilling Rigs focus on supporting drilling operations on offshore platforms, while Entry Level Oilfield Roustabouts perform general labor tasks on oilfield sites, often onshore. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find the right entry point in the oil and gas industry.

Can you get an entry level offshore drilling rig job with no experience?

Entry level offshore drilling rig jobs typically require some basic safety training and certifications such as Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET). While prior experience is not always necessary, employers often prefer candidates with a strong work ethic, physical fitness, and willingness to learn on the job; some companies offer training programs for newcomers.

How do I get started working on an entry level offshore drilling rig?

To start working as an entry-level offshore drilling rig worker, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant safety certifications such as Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET), and physical fitness. Gaining experience through entry-level positions like roustabout or roughneck and demonstrating a willingness to learn are important steps in entering the offshore drilling industry.

How much does an entry level offshore drilling rig worker make?

Entry-level offshore drilling rig workers typically earn between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, with wages increasing with experience and certifications such as Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET). They often work long shifts in challenging environments, and compensation may include additional allowances for overtime and living expenses.

What are the most commonly searched types of Offshore Drilling Rig jobs in Texas?

The most popular types of Offshore Drilling Rig jobs in Texas are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Offshore Drilling Rig jobs in Texas?

For Entry Level Offshore Drilling Rig jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Offshore Drilling Rig jobs in Texas look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Offshore Drilling Rig jobs in Texas are:

What cities in Texas are hiring for Entry Level Offshore Drilling Rig jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Entry Level Offshore Drilling Rig job openings:

Entry Level Offshore Drilling Rig jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Offshore Drilling Rig job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,354 per year, or $38.6 per hour.

MECHANICAL ENGINEER I

Nabors Industries Limited

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Prepare and maintain mechanical designs, drawings, and documentation for drilling rig equipment and assemblies.

  • Support product development from concept through manufacturing release and field implementation.

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to improve manufacturability, cost, and performance of mechanical systems.

Nabors Industries rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

60th of 87 rated oil and gas companies

Job description


Mechanical Engineer I supports the design, analysis, documentation, manufacturing, and lifecycle of capital equipment used on land drilling rigs. This entry-level engineering role contributes to the development and continuous improvement of mechanical systems, structures, assemblies, and components used in drilling applications. The position works closely with senior engineers, manufacturing, supply chain, quality, field service, and operations teams to ensure products are safe, reliable, manufacturable, serviceable, and aligned with customer and industry requirements.
Responsibilities
  • Prepare and maintain mechanical designs, layouts, models, drawings, bills of materials, and engineering documentation for drilling rig equipment, structures, and mechanical assemblies.
  • Support product development activities from concept through detailed design, prototype support, manufacturing release, and field implementation.
  • Perform basic engineering calculations and analyses related to strength of materials, structural loading, machine design, hydraulics interfaces, bolted joints, weldments, and mechanical fit-up.
  • Use 3D CAD and engineering tools to create models, drawings, assemblies, and design revisions in accordance with company standards and design practices.
  • Assist with finite element analysis, hand calculations, design reviews, tolerance checks, and validation activities under the guidance of senior engineering personnel.
  • Investigate design, manufacturing, assembly, and field issues; document findings; and support corrective actions, design improvements, and product reliability initiatives.
  • Collaborate with manufacturing, supply chain, quality, operations, and field service teams to improve manufacturability, cost, assembly efficiency, maintainability, and service performance.
  • Support the selection and specification of materials, purchased components, fasteners, bearings, bushings, hydraulic interfaces, structural members, and fabricated parts.
  • Review supplier and shop feedback to identify opportunities for standardization, simplification, cost reduction, and improved equipment performance.
  • Prepare and maintain engineering change requests, technical reports, test documentation, risk assessments, and design verification records.
  • Participate in design reviews, failure reviews, root cause analysis, field support discussions, and continuous improvement projects.
  • Perform work in accordance with applicable company procedures, safety requirements, quality expectations, and industry standards relevant to drilling equipment.

Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related engineering discipline.
  • Zero to two years of relevant experience in mechanical design, manufacturing support, product development, or equipment engineering.
  • Working knowledge of core mechanical engineering principles, including statics, dynamics, mechanics of materials, machine design, fluid power fundamentals, and materials selection.
  • Proficiency with 3D CAD software such as Autodesk Inventor, SolidWorks, Creo, or similar design tools.
  • Ability to read, interpret, and create engineering drawings, specifications, tolerances, welding symbols, and bills of materials.
  • Basic understanding of fabricated structures, machined components, bolted joints, welded assemblies, and manufacturing processes.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, documentation, and technical communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional environment with engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, quality, field service, and operations personnel.
  • Detail-oriented, self-motivated, and capable of managing assigned tasks with appropriate guidance and follow-up.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Engineer-in-Training certification or progress toward Fundamentals of Engineering certification.
  • Internship, co-op, or project experience related to heavy equipment, capital equipment, oilfield equipment, drilling rigs, machinery, structural design, manufacturing, or field service support.
  • Exposure to finite element analysis, mechanical simulation, fatigue concepts, structural analysis, or design verification methods.
  • Familiarity with hydraulic systems.
  • Familiarity with rotating machinery.
  • Familiarity with hoisting equipment, pipe handling equipment, structural frames, or drilling rig floor equipment.
  • Knowledge of welding, machining, fabrication, assembly processes, inspection methods, and design for manufacturability.
  • Familiarity with engineering standards and practices applicable to drilling equipment, structural components, lifting devices, machinery, and industrial safety.
  • Experience using product data management, enterprise resource planning, or engineering change management systems.

Key Competencies
  • Mechanical design and machine design fundamentals.
  • Structural and mechanical analysis.
  • Manufacturing support and design for manufacturability.
  • Technical documentation and engineering change control.
  • Problem solving, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis.
  • Cross-functional communication and collaboration

#LI-JA1
Work Authorization Requirement: Candidates must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Nabors does not provide work visa sponsorship for this position, now or in the future.
About Us
Nabors is a leading provider of advanced technology for the energy industry. With operations in about 20 countries, Nabors has established a global network of people, technology and equipment to deploy solutions that deliver safe, efficient and responsible hydrocarbon production. By leveraging its core competencies, particularly in drilling, engineering, automation, data science and manufacturing, Nabors aims to innovate the future of energy and enable the transition to a lower carbon world.
About the Team
Equal Opportunity Employer
Nabors is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibiting discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, religion, age, color, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This applies to all terms and conditions of employment including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leave of absence, compensation, and training. To learn more about our Fair Employment practices, please refer to the Nabors Code of Conduct.

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