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Entry Level Oil Rig Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

... oil and gas production. This role supports slickline/swab operations by assisting with equipment ... This is an entry level role with opportunities for advancement. Essential Duties & Responsibilities ...

Entry Level Oil Rig information

See Colorado salary details

$15

$23

$40

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

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level oil rig in Colorado is $23.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.68 and $30.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Entry Level Oil Rig position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Oil Rig worker, you typically need a high school diploma or GED, good physical fitness, and a willingness to work long shifts in challenging conditions. Basic knowledge of safety regulations, heavy machinery, and certifications such as TWIC, H2S, or OSHA safety training are often required. Dependability, teamwork, adaptability, and strong communication are important soft skills in this physically demanding environment. These qualities are essential to ensure safety, efficiency, and smooth operations on the rig while building the foundation for career advancement.

What is the typical work schedule like for entry-level oil rig workers?

Entry-level oil rig positions usually follow a rotational schedule, such as working 12-hour shifts for two or three weeks straight, followed by an equal period of time off. This means you may be away from home for extended periods, but also have several days or weeks off in a row. The work is physically demanding and involves outdoor conditions, so it's important to be prepared for long days and a challenging environment. However, the schedule allows for a unique work-life balance and provides opportunities to develop new skills and advance within the oil and gas industry.

What is an entry-level position on an oil rig?

An entry-level position on an oil rig typically includes roles such as roustabout, roughneck, or floorhand, which involve manual labor, equipment maintenance, and assisting more experienced workers. These positions often require basic safety training, physical fitness, and sometimes a certification like OSHA or BOSIET for offshore work.

What is an Entry Level Oil Rig job?

An entry-level oil rig job involves basic tasks that support drilling operations, such as cleaning, maintaining equipment, and assisting more experienced crew members. Common positions include roustabout and roughneck, which require physical labor in harsh environments. No prior experience is usually needed, but employers prefer candidates with mechanical skills and physical endurance. Training and certifications, such as H2S safety and first aid, may be required. These jobs offer competitive pay and opportunities for advancement within the oil and gas industry.

How do I get offshore with no experience?

Entry level oil rig positions often require a high school diploma or equivalent and physical fitness. Gaining basic safety certifications such as OSHA or BOSIET, and applying through staffing agencies or directly to oil companies, can improve chances of starting with no prior experience. On-the-job training is typically provided once hired.

Is it hard to get hired at an oil rig?

Getting hired as an entry-level oil rig worker can be competitive due to the physically demanding environment and safety requirements. Candidates often need relevant certifications, such as safety training and basic technical skills, and may face a rigorous screening process. Prior experience is not always necessary, but a strong work ethic and willingness to work long shifts are important.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Entry-level oil rig jobs can pay around $4,000 per week, especially for roles involving offshore drilling, heavy equipment operation, or specialized safety certifications. These positions often require physical fitness, technical training, and safety certifications but typically do not require a college degree. High pay is usually associated with demanding schedules and hazardous environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Oil Rig jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Oil Rig jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Oil Rig jobs in Colorado? For Entry Level Oil Rig jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Oil Rig jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Oil Rig jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Entry Level Oil Rig jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Entry Level Oil Rig job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Oil Rig job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,625 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Slickline/Swab Rig Technician

QB Energy

Parachute, CO • On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Company Information

QB Energy is a Denver-based upstream natural gas company committed to delivering value through responsible acquisition, development, and production that benefits both shareholders and stakeholders by operating efficiently, sustainably, and with cutting-edge technology.

QB Energy operates in the Piceance Basin of Western Colorado, currently operating about 400,000 net acres. The company develops and operates upstream gathering, compression, processing, and fractionation assets, with a focus on safety, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. Initiatives such as zero-flaring, methane emissions reduction, water recycling, and wildlife mitigation help minimize footprint while maximizing long-term value.

Job Summary

The Slickline/Swab Rig Technician assists the Slickline/Swab Rig Operator in performing well intervention operations to maintain and restore oil and gas production. This role supports slickline/swab operations by assisting with equipment rig up, tool string assembly, well intervention activities, and equipment maintenance while ensuring work is performed safely and efficiently. This position plays a critical role in maintaining production reliability, minimizing downtime, and supporting safe field operations. This is an entry level role with opportunities for advancement.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Assist with Rig Up and Rig Down of swab rig equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Maintain tools, equipment and work areas
  • Support safe operations during well servicing activities
  • Assist with inspection and preventative maintenance
  • Follow directions from Swab Rig Operator and supervisors
  • Assist with well intervention tasks including:
    • Pressurized Fluid Extraction
    • Retrieving downhole tools
    • Tag for fill
  • Assist with assembling and disassembling swab rig tool strings
  • Assist with pressure testing lubricators and pressure control equipment
  • Measure and record sand line depths during swab operations
  • Assist in greasing operations during swab runs
  • Monitor well conditions and assist the operator in maintaining safe well control practices
  • Ensure efficient utilization of resources across wells, zones and projects
  • Collaborate with different operational disciplines to conduct work effectively both independently and as part of team
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Safety & Compliance

  • Stay informed on ECMC rules and regulations
  • Ensure operational activities align with regulatory requirements, company policies, and industry standards
  • Exercise Stop Work Authority when unsafe conditions are identified
  • Comply with all QB Energy environmental, health, and safety (EHS) policies and training requirements

Equipment Management

  • Clean, maintain, and organize swab rig tools and equipment
  • Assist with routine maintenance of swab rig truck and field equipment
  • Inspect tools and equipment for wear, damage, or operational issues
  • Inspect and service lubricators, stuffing boxes, and pressure control equipment (BOP)
  • Identify equipment issues and report them to the Swab Rig Operator
  • Maintain and operate company-owned and rented vehicles including trucks and UTVs
  • Ensure all equipment is properly secured and maintained for safe transportation and field use

Qualifications

Education

  • High School diploma or G.E.D. (Preferred)

Specialized knowledge

  • Ability to obtain H2S certification and properly DON SCBA where required
  • Ability to obtain 24-Hour HAZWOPER Certification
  • Understanding of CDOT regulations related to commercial vehicle operation
  • Ability to obtain a Class A CDL within 12–24 months of employment
  • Basic understanding of pressure control procedures
  • Basic understanding of lubricator assembly
  • Basic understanding of swab tool string assembly
  • Ability to learn various plunger systems and downhole tool assemblies
  • Ability to train to OSHA requirement on Cranes
  • Ability to obtain a NCCCO certification

Skills & Abilities

  • Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills in field environments
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Strong organizational and time management skill
  • Proficient computer skills including Microsoft Office products
  • Knowledge of winter operations and cold-weather equipment considerations
  • Understanding of hydraulic system performance in cold temperatures
  • Ability to safely operate vehicles and equipment in mountainous terrain
  • Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Desire to grow professionally and progress within the organization
  • Ability to identify and communicate potential safety concerns promptly
  • Ability to work around pressurized equipment and heavy machinery

Industry Experience

  • 1+ years oil and gas industry experience preferred
  • Experience with swab rig or wireline operations preferred but not required

Compensation

The base compensation for this role in this location is targeted between $25 and $30 per hour. Final offer amounts are determined by multiple factors, including candidate experience and expertise, and may vary from the range listed above.

Benefits and Perks

As an employee of QB Energy, you’ll enjoy an impressive benefits package:

  • Medical Plan: QB Energy offers multiple medical plans to choose from
    • Lowest level plan premiums are covered at 100% for employees and dependents
  • Dental Plan
  • Vision Plan
  • Long-term disability, life insurance, and AD&D covered by QB Energy
  • 401k plan: QB Energy matches 100% of employee contributions up to the first 6% of compensation
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Holidays
  • Gym membership reimbursement

Work Conditions

Location:

This position is in Parachute, CO. Candidates currently residing in locations outside of daily commuting distance will be considered, however, it is the expectation that the selected individual will be available at the work location.

Work Environment:

This is a full-time position that operates in a field environment. The role requires flexibility to work weekends, nights, holidays, and handle callouts as needed. Employees must be able to work and drive in various weather conditions, including extreme temperatures, wind, snow, and rain. Overtime may occasionally be required, resulting in extended work shifts. Individuals must possess the physical ability to safely handle the tools necessary to perform their duties. This position is subject to federally mandated drug and alcohol testing.

Physical Demands:

In the performance of the duties and responsibilities of this job, the employee is required to have visual acuity to operate a motor vehicle and view a computer terminal for prolonged periods of time. While at work sites, the employee will be expected to walk and stand. Individuals might be asked to climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, reach, and/or crawl. Individuals might be required to lift, carry, push, or pull up to a minimum of 55 lbs. in the performance of this position.

Additional Information

Disclaimer:

This job posting is not intended to contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. The Company reserves the right to change or assign additional duties, responsibilities, and activities at any time with or without notice.

Hiring Practices:

QB Energy is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. We do not discriminate in hiring or any employment decision based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), marital status, ancestry, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, or other applicable legally protected characteristic. We consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state, and local law. We are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact HR Manager at HR@qb-energy.com.

We anticipate this post will close in 30 days