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Entry Level Rig Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Rig information

What does an entry level rig worker do?

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 is an entry level rig?

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 skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an entry level rig worker?

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 the most commonly searched types of Rig jobs in Kentucky? The most popular types of Rig jobs in Kentucky are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Rig jobs in Kentucky? For Entry Level Rig jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Rig jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Rig jobs in Kentucky are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Rig job openings in Kentucky as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

LOADER OPERATOR/GENERAL LABORER

Carlisle and Bray Enterprises

Newport, KY • On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Other

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Description
Job Overview
A C&B Marine Loader Operator is responsible for operating a loader or skid steer to clean and unload cargo. An ideal Loader Operator is a team player who can work in all weather conditions, enjoys learning new skills in a fast-paced environment, and is interested in a rewarding long-term career. Although this is an entry level position, those who can demonstrate a willingness to learn and work hard may be rewarded with advancement opportunities.
Responsibilities/Job Content
  • Operate a loader or skid steer
  • Perform routine inspections and maintenance on loader or skid steer
  • Rig loads for crane or excavator
  • Inspect and maintain rigging
  • Chip and paint
  • Report all equipment failures or hazardous conditions to supervisor
  • Ensure that all fire extinguishers are properly charged and tagged and that all other safety equipment is operational
  • Maintain a clean and tidy personal quarter and workspace free of spillage and equipment that is not in use
  • Shovel and sweep gunnels and hoppers
  • *Use a leaf blower to clean gunnels and hoppers
  • Shingle for an extended period of time in a confined space
  • Potentially use company vehicle to do a part run.
  • Handle line to secure barges
  • Check and add fluids to machinery, grease equipment, change air filters and change oil
  • Use hand and radio signals to direct crane/excavator
  • *Assist dry dock and rig workers as instructed
  • Complete all other duties as directed by the supervisor, person-in-charge or his designate.
  • Perform all tasks in accordance with U.S. Coast Guard, OSHA, MSHA and C&B Marine safety and environmental policies
Requirements
Requirements/Qualifications
Experience
  • No experience is necessary for the Loader Operator position but any experience with heavy machinery is preferred
Certifications
  • Must be able to obtain a TWIC card within 30 days of employment and maintain thereafter
Physical
A successful General Laborer should be able to do the following several times in a day:
  • Operate a loader or skid steer using hand and foot controls
  • Ascend and descend an 18-foot ladder while wearing a personal flotation device (PFD)
  • Ascend and descend 4 flights of stairs without stopping or losing balance
  • Fit through normal barge manhole that is 56.5-inches in circumference
  • Transition to and from a small boat from a towing vessel with a 30-inch change in elevation while wearing a PFD
  • Step up and down a 12 inch change in elevation without stopping or losing balance
  • Walk safely on uneven decks while maintaining balance at all times
  • Walk 1200 feet while carrying a 50-pound load
  • Lift with legs to pick up a 50-pound load to the shoulder
  • Step over deck fittings and objects on deck while maintaining balance
  • Reach up 90-degrees with both arms while sitting and standing and pull downward
  • Lift 50-pounds from waist to overhead
  • Work while wearing a dust mask
  • *Be prepared to be clean shaven to wear full respiratory facemask
Other
Upon receiving an offer of employment from C&B, employment is conditioned upon the new hire satisfying the below requirements:
  • passing a background check,
  • providing proof of eligibility to lawfully work in the United States, and
  • passing a pre-employment physical and drug screen.