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Entry Level Rig Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Overview This is an entry level position to operate and maintain in a continuous job readiness ... Coordinates onsite field operation activities such as rig-up/rig-down with Pump Operator, Equipment ...

Job Overview This is an entry level position to operate and maintain in a continuous job readiness ... Coordinates onsite field operation activities such as rig-up/rig-down with Pump Operator, Equipment ...

Job Overview This is an entry level position that assists in providing coiled tubing ground support ... The Pump Operator assists in the rig-up, rig-down or swapping wells and may take direction from ...

Job Overview This is an entry level position that assists in providing coiled tubing ground support ... The Pump Operator assists in the rig-up, rig-down or swapping wells and may take direction from ...

Pump Operator - Coiled Tubing

Smithton, PA · On-site

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

Job Overview This is an entry level position that assists in providing coiled tubing ground support ... The Pump Operator assists in the rig-up, rig-down or swapping wells and may take direction from ...

Pump Operator - Coiled Tubing

Midland, TX · On-site

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

Job Overview This is an entry level position that assists in providing coiled tubing ground support ... The Pump Operator assists in the rig-up, rig-down or swapping wells and may take direction from ...

Pump Operator - Coiled Tubing

Frierson, LA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Job Overview This is an entry level position that assists in providing coiled tubing ground support ... The Pump Operator assists in the rig-up, rig-down or swapping wells and may take direction from ...

Job Overview This is an entry level position that assists in providing coiled tubing ground support ... The Pump Operator assists in the rig-up, rig-down or swapping wells and may take direction from ...

Knows how to use and always utilizes Personal Protective Equipment. Assist in rig-ups/rig-downs as ... This is an entry level job and all training required to perform will be provided to employee prior ...

This is a junior/entry level position. This position is considered to be a safety-sensitive ... Worked in a similar environment (shop and rig sites, remote locations). * Interest in getting a ...

Knows how to use and always utilizes Personal Protective Equipment. Assist in rig-ups/rig-downs as ... This is an entry level job and all training required to perform will be provided to employee prior ...

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Entry Level Rig information

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$11

$19

$30

How much do entry level rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level rig in the United States is $19.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

An entry-level rig worker in the oil and gas industry can potentially earn around $10,000 per month with experience, strong physical skills, and safety certifications. These roles often involve long shifts and working in remote environments but do not require a college degree. High-paying rig jobs depend on experience, location, and company, with some specialized positions offering higher compensation.

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 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 jobs pay 2000 a day?

Entry level rig jobs in the oil and gas industry typically do not pay $2000 a day; such high daily rates are usually associated with specialized or senior roles like drilling supervisors, project managers, or consultants with extensive experience and certifications. These positions often require advanced skills, safety training, and industry-specific knowledge, and they may involve long shifts or offshore work.

How can I get an oil rig job with no experience?

Entry level rig positions often require a high school diploma or equivalent and physical fitness. Gaining basic safety certifications such as OSHA or H2S, and applying through staffing agencies or entry-level programs, can improve chances of securing a rig job without prior experience.

What is an entry-level position in the rig?

An entry-level rig position is a starting role in the oil and gas industry, often involving tasks such as assisting with equipment setup, maintenance, and safety procedures. These roles typically require basic technical skills, a high school diploma or equivalent, and may involve working long hours in challenging environments. Certifications like OSHA safety training are often preferred or required for these positions.
More about Entry Level Rig jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Rig jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Rig job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Rig jobs? The most popular types of Rig jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Rig jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Rig jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Rig job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,474 per year, or $19.9 per hour.
Floorhand - South and East Texas

Floorhand - South and East Texas

Patterson-UTI

Victoria, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Patterson-UTI rating

4.4

Company rating: 4.4 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

71st of 74 rated oil and gas companies


Job description


Brief Description:
The Floorhand assists the Motorhand, Derrickhand, and Driller in day-to-day rig operations. Major responsibilities include general maintenance and cleaning, checking the rig and equipment, and assisting in drilling activities. The Floorhand is responsible for making drill pipe connections and tripping pipe in/out of the drilling hole. This is an entry-level job that provides initial introductory training and substantial on-the-job training.
Detailed Description:
  • Lift and place slips weighing approximately 150 pounds with another person frequently during the tour work shift
  • General upkeep of the rig and drilling floor; includes regular sweeping, shoveling, cleaning, painting, washing of equipment and related housekeeping duties
  • Clean and general upkeep of the rig and drilling floor; includes regular painting, washing of equipment and related housekeeping duties
  • Use iron roughneck, slips, and tongs to properly handle and connect / break sections of drill pipe
  • Assist in rig moves: help with rig-up / rig-down, nipple up and down blowout preventers, assist with general assembly and maintenance and help prepare new location
  • Regularly check rig and equipment for any problems and safety issues on an ongoing basis
  • Assist with inspecting, slipping and cutting drilling line
  • Responsible for picking up and laying down tubulars, attaching or detaching pick- up lines, and the hook up and tear out of flare and degasser lines
  • Assist Motorhand with preventative maintenance and repairs of equipment and motors, pipe, and off-loading materials as well as checking / changing oil and coolant on engines
  • Assist Derrickhand with watching and maintaining shakers, mud pits and pumps
  • Wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all designated times which could include but is not limited to: hard hat, safety glasses, coveralls, work gloves, respirator, and hearing protection
  • Inspect safety equipment and PPE for wear and replacing as needed
  • Maintain spatial orientation and awareness to safely move around work environment with many moving objects
  • Work in a heavy industrial environment which includes working around constantly moving overhead machinery, being in close proximity to loud equipment and handling potentially hazardous chemicals
  • Take initiative and work independently during downtime
  • Support other crew members by carrying supplies, ensuring compliance with safety procedures and other additional tasks as assigned
  • Other duties as assigned that may be outside of this job description

Job Requirements:
  • Ability to stand and walk for a minimum of 3.5 hours and up to 12 hours without being able to sit and while wearing steel-toed boots
  • Able to repetitively climb steep stairs and be able to lift and carry 50 pounds independently while walking on uneven surfaces
  • Must be comfortable working at heights (50 ft. or greater) for extended periods of time
  • Stay alert and focused up to 12.5 hours while performing repetitive and routine activities
  • Bend, stoop, kneel, twist, and crawl throughout the tour work shift
  • Prior experience or ability to use heavy-duty handheld and long-handled tools
  • Ability to safely lift and carry 50 pounds independently and repetitively climb steep stairs
  • Demonstrate clear communication skills including ability to read, write and speak English as well as understand and promptly follow verbal and written instructions in English
  • Clear vision to judge near and far distances to maintain awareness of, watch, and report ongoing work activities to coworkers and third parties
  • Able to have accurate recall over short and long-term memory
  • Able to work closely with others in the confined area of the drilling rig and may live together in crew quarters
  • Work with an emphasis on safety for themselves and others including coworkers and third parties
  • Willing to travel to and work in remote locations on a rotational schedule which consists of 14 days on / 14 days off, working 12.5 hour shifts that can include days or nights and as well as weekends and holidays
  • Willing to work mandatory and unscheduled hours outside of your assigned schedule with little or no advanced notice
  • Must be willing and able to attend and successfully complete classroom training and testing to qualify for a rig assignment
  • Able to successfully meet pre-employment testing requirements which may include, without limitation, pre-employment drug and alcohol test(s) and background checks as well as drug and/or alcohol testing periodically during employment (subject to state and federal laws)

Minimum Qualifications for new to Patterson-UTI (Expereinced):
  • 6 months of experience working in a rig based positions (Floorhand, Motorhand, Derrickhand within the drilling industry)

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Forklift Certification
  • Valid Well control certifications, IADC WellSHARP preferred
  • High School Diploma or GED

Minimum Qualifications for new to industry:
  • One (1) year of stable work history

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Six (6) months stable related work history (e.g., farming, ranching, construction, heavy equipment or other trade) or military service
  • High School Diploma or GED

Additional Details:
This position requires the person to work outdoors for an entire tour work shift in all kinds of weather conditions, including precipitation, cold / heat, high wind, and turbulent conditions. They will be exposed to the typical conditions of the local area where the rig is located. Southern states generally experience hot summers where temperatures range from 80° to low 100° with high humidity; winters have temperatures that generally do not go below 20°. Northern states generally have hot summers with similar conditions and have cold, windy winters, with low temperatures that can be as cold as - 40°.
About Us
The New Standard for Drilling Performance
Drill safer, smarter and faster with Patterson-UTI Drilling's comprehensive fleet of pad-capable rigs featuring advanced walking systems to enhance your operations so you can reach your apex.
Patterson-UTI is committed to a workplace free from discrimination and harassment, offering equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of personal characteristics protected by law. Employees are encouraged to report any concerns through multiple channels.

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