Want an entry level position with FULL BENEFITS that could lead to a career in test drilling ... Label sample containers as directed * Assist driller in maintenance and repairs to drill rig
Want an entry level position with FULL BENEFITS that could lead to a career in test drilling ... Label sample containers as directed * Assist driller in maintenance and repairs to drill rig
Want an entry level position with FULL BENEFITS that could lead to a career in test drilling ... Label sample containers as directed * Assist driller in maintenance and repairs to drill rig
Want an entry level position with FULL BENEFITS that could lead to a career in test drilling ... Label sample containers as directed * Assist driller in maintenance and repairs to drill rig
Want an entry level position with FULL BENEFITS that could lead to a career in test drilling ... Label sample containers as directed * Assist driller in maintenance and repairs to drill rig
Want an entry level position with FULL BENEFITS that could lead to a career in test drilling ... Label sample containers as directed * Assist driller in maintenance and repairs to drill rig
Entry Level Rig information
See New Orleans, LA salary details
$10.85 - $12.51
1% of jobs
$12.51 - $14.17
6% of jobs
$15.80 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$14.17 - $15.82
18% of jobs
$15.82 - $17.48
23% of jobs
The median wage is $17.65 / hr.
$17.48 - $19.14
16% of jobs
$19.14 - $20.80
11% of jobs
$20.85 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$20.80 - $22.46
8% of jobs
$22.46 - $24.11
7% of jobs
$24.11 - $25.77
5% of jobs
$25.77 - $27.43
2% of jobs
$27.43 - $29.09
2% of jobs
$10
$19
$29
How much do entry level rig jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level rig in New Orleans, LA is $19.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $21.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
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?
| Aspect | Entry Level Rig | Entry Level Driller |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | High School Diploma or GED, OSHA safety training | High School Diploma or GED, OSHA safety training, some certifications |
| Work Environment | Oil and gas drilling sites, outdoor, physically demanding | Drilling operations, outdoor, supervisory tasks |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Oil & gas companies, drilling contractors | Oil & gas companies, drilling contractors |
| Common Search & Comparison | Yes | Yes |
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 New Orleans, LA? The most popular types of Rig jobs in New Orleans, LA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Rig jobs in New Orleans, LA? For Entry Level Rig jobs in New Orleans, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Rig jobs in New Orleans, LA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Rig jobs in New Orleans, LA are:
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO
Re-posted 12 days ago
Tetra Tech rating
6.4
Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
395th of 441 rated engineering
Job description
Like working outdoors? Want an entry level position with FULL BENEFITS that could lead to a career in test drilling?
Ardaman & Associates, Inc. is one of the largest geotechnical, materials testing, and environmental engineering consulting firms in the Southeastern U.S. Ardaman has the following opportunity available:
DRILLER ASSISTANT
Our New Orleans office has an opportunity available for a Driller Assistant. A driller assistant will assist the driller in solid stem and hollow stem auger drilling and Shelby tube sampling techniques. The assistant will help move, set up and operate drilling rigs and related equipment to drill holes for geotechnical exploration test borings. Site investigation/geotechnical drilling is done to determine the soil characteristics on construction sites. Work is outdoors in all weather conditions. The work is generally physically demanding.
Responsibilities:
Qualifications:
We offer a comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, paid time off, 401(k) with company match, and much more..
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. Ardaman is a wholly owned subsidiary of Tetra Tech, who is a VEVRAA federal contractor and we request priority referral of veterans. Ardaman is a Drug Free Workplace.
Ardaman & Associates, Inc. is one of the largest geotechnical, materials testing, and environmental engineering consulting firms in the Southeastern U.S. Ardaman has the following opportunity available:
DRILLER ASSISTANT
Our New Orleans office has an opportunity available for a Driller Assistant. A driller assistant will assist the driller in solid stem and hollow stem auger drilling and Shelby tube sampling techniques. The assistant will help move, set up and operate drilling rigs and related equipment to drill holes for geotechnical exploration test borings. Site investigation/geotechnical drilling is done to determine the soil characteristics on construction sites. Work is outdoors in all weather conditions. The work is generally physically demanding.
Responsibilities:
- Ability to lift drill steel and materials weighing up to 80 lbs.
- Label sample containers as directed
- Assist driller in maintenance and repairs to drill rig
- Expediting field supplies
- Performs duties at multiple job sites
- Performs yard duties at direction of driller
- Assist in measuring test boring locations
- Load and unload trucks
- Smoothly and quickly connect and disconnect the lower parts of the drill pipe when it is being lowered into and raised from the hole
- Catch samples of drilled cuttings to be analyzed
- Assist in installing monitoring well casing and screens
- Clean and maintain equipment
- Help move drilling rigs and equipment from site to site, set up in the new site
- Help obtain drilling core samples
- Dig and clean mud pits and drains
- Assist with well development and pumping tests
- Operate equipment such as pumps for air, water and mud, and equipment and tools used to correct problems in drilled holes
- Carry out minor maintenance and repairs, including lubrication and cleaning
- Perform other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
- Minimum of one-year experience preferred
- Mechanical skills preferred
- Class A or Class B CDL license a plus
- Must have current DOT Medical Examiners Certificate or be able to obtain one prior to employment
- Available to work overtime and weekends as required to meet client schedules
- Available for overnight/out-of-town travel
- Must pass company background checks including drug screen
- Must have an excellent driving record within company standards
- Local candidates preferred; no relocation
We offer a comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, paid time off, 401(k) with company match, and much more..
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. Ardaman is a wholly owned subsidiary of Tetra Tech, who is a VEVRAA federal contractor and we request priority referral of veterans. Ardaman is a Drug Free Workplace.
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