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Entry Level Rig Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Rig information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Rig Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Rig Worker, you need a high school diploma or GED, physical fitness, and a basic understanding of safety protocols. Familiarity with rigging equipment, power tools, and safety certifications such as H2S and First Aid/CPR are commonly required. Strong teamwork, communication, and a willingness to learn help individuals stand out in this position. These skills and qualities are critical for maintaining safety, efficiency, and reliability in demanding oil and gas environments.

What are some common responsibilities and learning opportunities for someone starting in an entry-level rig position?

In an entry-level rig role, you’ll typically assist with setting up and maintaining drilling equipment, support senior crew members with daily operations, and follow strict safety protocols on the rig site. This position offers valuable hands-on training in operating machinery, understanding drilling processes, and learning about workplace safety. Collaboration is essential, as you'll work closely with experienced rig operators, engineers, and safety officers, making it a great environment for developing both technical and teamwork skills. Over time, many entry-level rig workers advance to higher positions such as driller or rig supervisor by gaining field experience and completing relevant certifications.

What are entry level rig jobs?

Entry level rig jobs refer to positions on oil and gas drilling rigs that require little to no prior experience in the industry. These roles often include positions such as roustabout, roughneck, or floorhand, where employees assist with the daily operations of drilling, maintenance, and general labor. Workers in these positions are responsible for tasks like cleaning the rig, handling equipment, and supporting more experienced crew members. Entry level rig jobs are physically demanding and usually require working long hours in remote locations, but they offer a pathway to more advanced and higher-paying positions within the industry.

What is the difference between Entry Level Rig vs Entry Level Driller?

AspectEntry Level RigEntry Level Driller
Required CredentialsHigh School Diploma or GED, OSHA safety trainingHigh School Diploma or GED, OSHA safety training, some certifications
Work EnvironmentOil and gas drilling sites, outdoor, physically demandingDrilling operations, outdoor, supervisory tasks
Employer & Industry UsageOil & gas companies, drilling contractorsOil & gas companies, drilling contractors
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Entry Level Rig typically refers to workers assisting with drilling operations, focusing on manual tasks and safety. The Entry Level Driller, while also starting at an entry level, involves more technical knowledge and supervisory responsibilities. Both roles are essential in the drilling industry, but the Driller position often requires additional certifications and experience for advancement.

What are the most commonly searched types of Rig jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Rig jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Rig jobs in Colorado? For Entry Level Rig jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Rig jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Rig jobs in Colorado are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Rig job openings in Colorado as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
U.S. Rig Based Positions

U.S. Rig Based Positions

Helmerich Payne

Grand Junction, CO

$25 - $34.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


Job description

At H&P, our people are our strength.

Since 1920,Helmerich and Paynehas been the industry's most trusted partner in drillingproductivity and reliability. As the world changes, so does our approach. We are changing the landscape of drilling by using cutting-edge rig technologies and drilling solutions to build upon a century ofsuccess, all while continuing to deliver better outcomes for our customers.

At H&P, our people are our strength. We strive to continually lead with our Core Values that enable employees to develop on their H&P Journey. We believe that doing the right thing means creating a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace that empowers our people to bring their authentic selves to work every day.

Some companies offer career paths. We offer a Journey of a Lifetime. Let's go far, together.

Hear directly from our employees, and leaders about theirunique journeys at Helmerich and Payne.

At a Glance:

Non-supervisory rig-based drilling positions include positions such as Floorman (entry-level), Roustabout (Offshore entry-level), Motorman and Derrickman. When completing your application, you will be asked to specify the position(s) for which you would like to apply.

Location: Odessa, TX, Tyler Texas, Oklahoma City, OK, Grand Junction, CO, Dickinson, ND, Barnesville, OH

Work Type: Onsite

#LI-Onsite

What you will do:

  • Non-supervisory rig-based drilling positions are responsible for performing various manual labor tasks throughout the rig site, including rig up and down activities, general equipment operation, repairs and maintenance on rig components, assigned activities on the rig floor, mud-mixing, handling tubulars in the derrick, and other various duties as assigned.
  • Demonstrate the H&P Company values: Actively C.A.R.E., Service Attitude, Innovative Spirit, and Teamwork.

What you need:

  • The worker must be at least 18 years of age
  • The worker must pass a post-offer physical examination
  • The worker must have proper legal authorization to work in the country where the rig is operating
  • Work assignments are generally 12 hours per day, for 14-28 consecutive days, followed by 14-28 days off
  • Ability to apply common sense to carry out written or oral instructions and to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations
  • Basic ability to understand, speak, read, and write English
  • Basic computer skills required
  • Non-entry-level positions require a minimum of six months of prior drilling experience, as well as knowledge of procedures associated with drilling a well
  • Prior mechanical equipment experience is preferred for motorman positions

Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

***The Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act requires employers in the State of Colorado to disclose the following information. If the position applied to is not located in Colorado, the following information may not apply. In accordance with applicable law, the following represents H&P's good faith estimate of the hiring compensation range for this role. Actual compensation will vary and may be above or below the range as permitted by the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act, based on various factors including but not limited to geographic location, experience, performance, and other considerations permitted by applicable law.

Salary Guidelines:

(Minimum - Maximum)

$25.00 - $34.50

What we offer:

At H&P, our commitment to our people is at the forefront, and that includes benefits that provide employees a sense of health and financial security. We know that life continues outside of employment and actively caring of our people is our priority.

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • Flexible Spending or Health Savings Accounts
  • 401k match
  • Paid Leave Plans
  • Parental & Adoption Benefits
  • Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Educational Assistance
  • Learning & Development Opportunities
  • Flex-scheduling available for qualifying positions to achieve work-life integration

H&P is committed to employing a diverse workforce. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, or disability.

For more information on benefits and job opportunities, please visit Careers | Helmerich & Payne, Inc.

Thank you for your interest in joining our team!

Thank you for your interest in joining our team!