MECHANICAL ENGINEER I
Houston, TX · On-site
This entry-level engineering role contributes to the development and continuous improvement of ... Internship, co-op, or project experience related to heavy equipment, capital equipment, oilfield ...
New
MECHANICAL ENGINEER I
Houston, TX · On-site
This entry-level engineering role contributes to the development and continuous improvement of ... Internship, co-op, or project experience related to heavy equipment, capital equipment, oilfield ...
New
Entry Level Oil Rig information
See Alvin, TX salary details
$13.12 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$11.94 - $13.70
37% of jobs
The median wage is $15.11 / hr.
$13.70 - $15.46
16% of jobs
$15.46 - $17.22
4% of jobs
$17.22 - $18.99
11% of jobs
$18.99 - $20.75
5% of jobs
$21.41 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$20.75 - $22.51
4% of jobs
$22.51 - $24.27
7% of jobs
$24.27 - $26.03
4% of jobs
$26.03 - $27.79
5% of jobs
$27.79 - $29.55
3% of jobs
$29.55 - $31.32
2% of jobs
$11
$18
$31
How much do entry level oil rig jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level oil rig in Alvin, TX is $18.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.93 and $23.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is an entry level oil rig?
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.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the entry level oil rig position?
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.
How do I get a job on an entry level oil rig with no experience?
To get an entry-level oil rig job with no experience, applicants should focus on obtaining basic safety certifications such as OSHA and BOSIET, and consider applying for entry-level positions like roustabout or laborer. Gaining physical fitness, demonstrating a willingness to learn, and being prepared to work long shifts are also important steps in entering the industry.
Is it hard to get hired at an entry level oil rig?
Getting hired for an entry-level oil rig position can be competitive, but opportunities are available for candidates with a high school diploma, physical fitness, and a willingness to learn. Employers often require safety training and certifications such as Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET).
What are the most commonly searched types of Oil Rig jobs in Alvin, TX?
The most popular types of Oil Rig jobs in Alvin, TX are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Oil Rig jobs in Alvin, TX look for?
The top searched job categories for Entry Level Oil Rig jobs in Alvin, TX are:
What cities near Alvin, TX are hiring for Entry Level Oil Rig jobs?
Cities near Alvin, TX with the most Entry Level Oil Rig job openings:
Full-time
Posted 2 days ago
New
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.
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. 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.
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.
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.