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Entry Level Offshore Drilling Rig Jobs in Grapevine, TX

... offshore project assignments.Essential Functions of the Position1. Perform variety of drilling duties handling drill rods, wrenches and other tools behind the drill rig equipment2. Responsible for ...

Driller Assistant

Dallas, TX · On-site

$21.25 - $28.75/hr

... offshore project assignments. Essential Functions of the Position 1. Perform variety of drilling duties handling drill rods, wrenches and other tools behind the drill rig equipment 2. Responsible for ...

Driller Assistant

Dallas, TX · On-site

$21.25 - $28.75/hr

... offshore project assignments. Essential Functions of the Position 1. Perform variety of drilling duties handling drill rods, wrenches and other tools behind the drill rig equipment 2. Responsible for ...

Driller Assistant

Dallas, TX · On-site

$21.25 - $28.75/hr

... offshore project assignments. Essential Functions of the Position 1. Perform variety of drilling duties handling drill rods, wrenches and other tools behind the drill rig equipment 2. Responsible for ...

Entry Level Offshore Drilling Rig information

See Grapevine, TX salary details

$18

$38

$64

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

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level offshore drilling rig in Grapevine, TX is $38.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.78 and $41.30 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 cities near Grapevine, TX are hiring for Entry Level Offshore Drilling Rig jobs?

Cities near Grapevine, TX with the most Entry Level Offshore Drilling Rig job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Offshore Drilling Rig job openings in Grapevine, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,683 per year, or $38.3 per hour.

Drilling Technician / CME Rig Operator

Kennedale, TX

$26 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Location: Kennedale, Texas

Pacific West is seeking an experienced Drilling Technician/CME Rig Operator to join our Texas team. This position requires hands-on experience safely operating a large CME drill rig, along with a valid Class B Commercial Driver’s License.

We are looking for someone who understands drilling operations, takes pride in maintaining equipment, and works safely and effectively as part of a field team. This is not an entry-level operator position.

Key Responsibilities
  • Safely operate and transport a large CME drill rig and supporting equipment.
  • Mobilize, set up, level, and break down drilling equipment at project sites.
  • Perform drilling activities in accordance with project requirements, including soil and groundwater investigation work.
  • Assist with hollow-stem auger, mud rotary, air rotary, direct-push, sampling, and monitoring well installation activities, as applicable.
  • Complete required pre-trip and post-trip inspections.
  • Maintain accurate drilling logs, equipment inspections, daily reports, and DOT documentation.
  • Perform routine maintenance and identify equipment or mechanical concerns before they become safety or operational issues.
  • Coordinate with project managers, field supervisors, geologists, engineers, and other project personnel.
  • Follow all company, client, OSHA, and DOT safety requirements.
  • Exercise stop-work authority when unsafe conditions are identified.
  • Travel to project locations and work extended hours when project schedules require it.
Required Qualifications
  • Demonstrated experience operating a large CME drill rig.
  • Valid Class B CDL with an acceptable driving record.
  • Current DOT medical certification or ability to obtain one.
  • Working knowledge of drilling equipment, tooling, hydraulics, and basic mechanical maintenance.
  • Ability to safely maneuver and position large commercial equipment at active project sites.
  • Ability to read site plans, follow drilling instructions, and maintain accurate field documentation.
  • Strong safety awareness and sound decision-making skills.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather and site conditions.
  • Ability to lift and handle drilling tools, materials, and equipment safely.
  • Ability to pass required pre-employment screenings.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with environmental, geotechnical, or remediation drilling.
  • Experience installing monitoring wells and collecting soil or groundwater samples.
  • Air brake and tanker endorsements.
  • OSHA 40-hour HAZWOPER certification.
  • Mechanical troubleshooting or heavy-equipment maintenance experience.
What We Offer
  • Competitive compensation based on experience.
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Paid time off and paid holidays.
  • 401(k) retirement plan.
  • Company-provided safety equipment and training.
  • Opportunities for travel, overtime, and professional growth.

If you are an experienced drilling professional who can safely operate a large CME rig and holds a Class B CDL, we want to hear from you.

Apply today to join Pacific West’s growing team.

Pacific West is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.