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First Time Oil Rig Jobs (NOW HIRING)

3rd Party People

Rig Hand

Midland, TX

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Rig Hand As a Rig Hand in the Upstream Oil and Gas industry, you will be an essential part of our ... Generous paid time off, encompassing vacation, holidays, and sick leave. Opportunities for ...

3rd Party People

Rig Hand

Midland, TX · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Rig Hand As a Rig Hand in the Upstream Oil and Gas industry, you will be an essential part of our ... Generous paid time off, encompassing vacation, holidays, and sick leave. Opportunities for ...

C&J Well Services, LLC

Rig Operator

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... time. * Interacts positively with customer representatives on location to ensure proper job ... Two years or more of recent, workover rig operating or oil well servicing experience. Knowledge ...

C&J Well Services, LLC

Rig Operator

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... time. * Interacts positively with customer representatives on location to ensure proper job ... Two years or more of recent, workover rig operating or oil well servicing experience. Knowledge ...

Key Energy Services

Rig Operator - 1910

Alice, TX · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... the oil and gas industry since 1977! We have been around for a long time and looking for ... Our benefits start the 1st day of the month after you are hired! • Are you planning for your ...

Jennmar

Rig Welder

$80/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Paid Time Off * 401(k) *Option for a contract pay rate of $80/hr flat or the other. Working area ... We are consistently employing individuals in the Coal, Oil & Gas, Construction, Manufacturing and ...

Key Energy Services

Rig Operator - 1793

Kilgore, TX · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... the oil and gas industry since 1977! We have been around for a long time and looking for ... Our benefits start the 1st day of the month after you are hired! • Are you planning for your ...

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First Time Oil Rig information

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$14

$22

$38

How much do first time oil rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for first time oil rig in the United States is $22.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a first time oil rig worker?

A first time oil rig worker is someone who is starting their initial job on an oil drilling platform, often in entry-level positions such as roustabout or roughneck. These workers handle manual labor tasks like cleaning, maintaining equipment, and assisting more experienced crew members. Working on an oil rig can be physically demanding and requires adherence to strict safety protocols. Many first time oil rig workers receive on-the-job training and are expected to work long shifts, often in remote locations. Gaining experience in this field can lead to advancement into more specialized and higher-paying roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a first-time oil rig worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a first-time oil rig worker, you need physical fitness, basic mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with safety protocols, personal protective equipment (PPE), and certifications like H2S awareness or Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET) are commonly required. Strong teamwork, resilience, and the ability to communicate clearly are vital soft skills in this high-risk environment. These skills and qualifications are essential for maintaining safety, productivity, and effective collaboration in challenging and hazardous conditions.

What are some common challenges faced during your first assignment on an oil rig, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Starting your first role on an oil rig can be challenging due to the remote location, long shifts, and the need to quickly adapt to safety protocols and physically demanding work. New hires often find adjusting to the 12-hour shifts and living in close quarters with colleagues to be a significant transition. To prepare, it's helpful to focus on building physical stamina, familiarizing yourself with basic safety procedures, and being open to learning from experienced crew members. Strong teamwork and communication skills are essential, as daily tasks often require close collaboration with others to ensure both efficiency and safety.

What is the difference between First Time Oil Rig vs Oil Rig Roustabout?

AspectFirst Time Oil RigOil Rig Roustabout
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety trainingHigh school diploma, safety training
Work EnvironmentOffshore drilling sites, physically demandingOffshore or onshore, manual labor
Job RoleEntry-level, assisting crew, learning operationsManual labor, equipment maintenance, support tasks

Both roles typically require safety certifications and involve physically demanding work in offshore environments. A First Time Oil Rig worker is usually new to offshore drilling, focusing on learning and assisting, while an Oil Rig Roustabout performs manual tasks supporting rig operations. The main difference lies in experience level and specific job responsibilities, but both are entry-level positions essential to rig operations.

How do I get a job on a first time oil rig with no experience?

First time oil rig workers with no experience should focus on obtaining relevant certifications such as Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET) and demonstrating a willingness to learn. Entry-level positions like roustabout or laborer are often available and serve as a starting point; applying through staffing agencies or directly to oil companies can improve chances. Physical fitness and a strong work ethic are important in this demanding environment.

Is it hard to get hired at a First Time Oil Rig?

Getting hired at a first-time oil rig can be competitive, as employers often seek candidates with relevant safety training, certifications, and physical fitness. Entry-level positions may require completing safety courses like H2S training and demonstrating a willingness to work long shifts in challenging environments.
More about First Time Oil Rig jobs

What states have the most First Time Oil Rig jobs?

States with the most job openings for First Time Oil Rig jobs include:

What job categories do people searching First Time Oil Rig jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for First Time Oil Rig jobs are:

First Time Oil Rig jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Time Oil Rig job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 10% Contract, and 15% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,194 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Rig Hand

3rd Party People

Midland, TX

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Rig Hand

As a Rig Hand in the Upstream Oil and Gas industry, you will be an essential part of our drilling operations team, responsible for various tasks that contribute to the safe and efficient drilling of wells. Your work will involve manual labor, equipment operation, and maintenance duties that help us achieve successful drilling outcomes while adhering to industry standards and safety protocols. Join our team as a Rig Hand and contribute to the success of our Upstream Oil and Gas operations while enjoying a comprehensive range of benefits designed to support your personal and professional journey. Assist in the setup, operation, and maintenance of drilling rigs and equipment. Handle manual labor tasks, including lifting, carrying, and moving heavy equipment and materials. Assist with the assembly and disassembly of drilling tools and components. Support drilling operations by operating machinery, such as forklifts and cranes. Perform routine maintenance and repairs on rig equipment and machinery. Ensure compliance with safety regulations, company policies, and industry best practices. Collaborate with other team members to achieve drilling goals.

Requirements High school diploma or equivalent; technical training in oil and gas operations is a plus. Prior experience as a Rig Hand or in a similar role in the oil and gas industry is beneficial. Physical fitness and ability to perform manual labor tasks in various weather conditions. Basic understanding of drilling rig components and equipment. Effective teamwork skills and communication for coordination with colleagues. Willingness to learn and adapt to changing work environments and tasks. Knowledge of safety procedures and protocols in industrial operations. Prior experience in upstream oil and gas facilities is advantageous.

Benefits Competitive compensation package based on skills and experience. Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage. Retirement savings options, including 401(k) plans with company contributions. Generous paid time off, encompassing vacation, holidays, and sick leave. Opportunities for professional development and technical training. Supportive and collaborative work environment fostering growth and learning. Access to specialized tools and equipment for rig operations. Potential for career advancement within a dynamic and evolving industry. Commitment to employee well-being, work-life balance, and safety.

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