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Flowback Operator Jobs in Mission, TX (NOW HIRING)

Fesco

Hydraulic Choke Operator

Edinburg, TX

A Hydraulic Choke Operator performs work in drill out, flowback, well testing, and rig up/rig down services in oil and gas fracturing operations. They are responsible for tearing apart and rebuilding ...

FESCO LTD.

Hydraulic Choke Operator

Edinburg, TX · On-site

Description A Hydraulic Choke Operator performs work in drill out, flowback, well testing, and rig up/rig down services in oil and gas fracturing operations. They are responsible for tearing apart ...

FESCO LTD.

Hydraulic Choke Operator

Edinburg, TX

A Hydraulic Choke Operator performs work in drill out, flowback, well testing, and rig up/rig down services in oil and gas fracturing operations. They are responsible for tearing apart and rebuilding ...

All JobsFlowback Operator JobsFlowback Operator Jobs in Mission, TX

Flowback Operator information

See Mission, TX salary details

$9

$15

$23

How much do flowback operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for flowback operator in Mission, TX is $15.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.17 and $17.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a flowback operator do?

A flowback operator is responsible for managing the flowback process after hydraulic fracturing, which involves removing fluids and debris from the well to ensure proper production. They operate specialized equipment, monitor pressure and flow rates, and follow safety protocols to optimize well performance. This role often requires technical skills, knowledge of well operations, and adherence to safety standards.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Flowback operators in the oil and gas industry can earn around $4,000 per week, especially with experience and overtime. These roles typically require technical skills, safety training, and working in field environments, often without a college degree. High-paying skilled trades like commercial diving or certain construction roles can also reach similar weekly earnings without formal degrees.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Flowback Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Flowback Operator, you need a solid understanding of oil and gas production processes, mechanical aptitude, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant field experience. Familiarity with flowback equipment, pressure monitoring systems, and safety certifications such as H2S or OSHA are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help operators respond quickly to changing site conditions. These skills are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient well operations and minimizing environmental and operational risks.

What are Flowback Operators?

Flowback Operators are professionals in the oil and gas industry responsible for managing the flowback process after a well has been hydraulically fractured. Their main job is to monitor and control the flow of fluids, such as water, oil, and gas, that return to the surface once the well is opened. They ensure equipment is functioning properly, collect and analyze samples, and maintain safety standards on site. Flowback Operators play a critical role in the initial production phase, helping maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impact. This position often requires working long hours in challenging outdoor conditions.

How much do flowback operators make?

Flowback operators typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. Overtime, certifications, and working in remote or challenging environments can increase earnings.

How to become a flowback operator?

To become a flowback operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant experience in oil and gas operations. Training on equipment such as flowback units and safety protocols is essential, and certifications like H2S awareness or OSHA safety training are often required. Physical fitness and the ability to work in outdoor environments and variable schedules are also important.

What is the difference between Flowback Operator vs Wellhead Technician?

AspectFlowback OperatorWellhead Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, technical trainingHigh school diploma, safety certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentOil and gas sites, outdoor, physically demandingOil and gas facilities, outdoor/indoor, technical tasks
Industry UsagePrimarily during well completion and flowback operationsDuring wellhead installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting

Both roles require safety certifications and technical training, often working on-site in the oil and gas industry. While Flowback Operators focus on managing flowback operations during well completion, Wellhead Technicians handle installation and maintenance of wellhead equipment. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right role aligned with their skills and career goals.

What Does a Flowback Operator Do?

As a flowback operator, you work at an oil and gas rig and monitor flowback equipment. Your responsibilities in this career include maintaining a safe work environment, recording measurements from a rig’s gauges, and replacing malfunctioning parts. You may also work with fluids like water. Your duties also include promoting every work safety procedure, maintaining interpersonal relationships with customers, and conducting various functionality tests on equipment. Quality control is a vital element of the job, as is developing the skills of other employees through mentorship. You might work onshore, offshore, or both in various geographical locations.

What are some common challenges faced by Flowback Operators during well testing operations?

Flowback Operators often encounter challenges such as managing fluctuating flow rates, handling high-pressure equipment safely, and troubleshooting mechanical issues under time constraints. The work can involve long shifts and exposure to harsh weather conditions, especially at remote drilling sites. Effective communication with the rig team and supervisors is essential to ensure safety and successful data collection, making teamwork and attention to detail critical skills in this role.
More about Flowback Operator jobs
What cities near Mission, TX are hiring for Flowback Operator jobs? Cities near Mission, TX with the most Flowback Operator job openings:
Flowback Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flowback Operator job openings in Mission, TX as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 13% Full Time, 85% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 4% Physical, 19% Hybrid, and 77% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,703 per year, or $15.7 per hour.
Hydraulic Choke Operator

Hydraulic Choke Operator

Fesco

Edinburg, TX

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

A Hydraulic Choke Operator performs work in drill out, flowback, well testing, and rig up/rig down services in oil and gas fracturing operations. They are responsible for tearing apart and rebuilding hydraulic chokes used in the field as well as operating this equipment from a command center. They must have knowledge of well testing equipment and the ability to diagnose, repair and troubleshoot malfunctions when needs arise. Basic computer knowledge is a must in order to perform data entry and to generate field reports. Ensure accurate collection and reporting of well production flowrates are documented as per internal and/or client based guidelines. Workload consists of 75% field and 25% shop. They must have a a clean driving record with the ability to obtain and maintain a commercial driver's license (Class "A" CDL).

I. Field Work

A. Rigging up a portable separator and heater

  1. Lift chicksan bundles weighing 65 lbs.
  2. Attach chicksan bundle to wellhead, entailing lift from ground level to above head level.
  3. Hammer unions from ground level to above head level.
  4. Drive flowline tie-down stakes with 8 lbs. to 12 lb. or larger sledgehammer or Electric Bosch demolition hammer weighing 60 lbs.
  5. Make up threaded connections with two (2) 24" pipe wrenches occasionally using a 36" pipe wrench from ground level to above head level.
  6. Monitor and maintain hydraulic choke equipment during coiled tubing washes, frac flowback etc.
  7. Operate hydraulic choke controls within safe parameters of the designate equipment.
  8. Maintains and repairs all components of high pressure operation: flowline/connections, hydraulic choke manifolds, sand separators, test separators, flare stacks, gas busters and safety systems.

B. Rigging up flowback manifold and sand separator.

  1. Load fittings weighing 40 lbs .each.
  2. Drive flowline tie-down stakes with 8lbs. or larger sledgehammer or electric Bosch demolition hammer weighing 60 lbs.
  3. Stoop, bend, twist, turn, and lift to align and join threaded components at heights from ground level to above head level.
  4. Carry and connect 15 foot long threaded pipe joints with a second person's assistance (1/4 joint weight 40 lbs.) Full 30' pipe joint weighs 140 lbs.
  5. Hammer union connections and screw threaded connections with 24" pipe wrench from ground level to above head level.
  6. Perform all routine choke changes, blowdowns, tank strapping and pressure readings anytime or when directed.

Shop Work

  1. Load and unload field work equipment weighing 70 lbs. to/from a height of 36"to 60".
  2. Lift items and fittings weighing 30 lbs. placing them on shelves head high.
  3. Occasionally lift weights 70 lbs. to a height of 36" to 60".
  4. Wash any and all FESCO equipment.
  5. Clean and sweep shop
  6. Turn around equipment in order for it to be ready for the next job.

Safety

  1. In order to comply with Department of Transportation regulations, must be able to pass a "DOT" physical, secure and maintain at least a Class "B" CDL with an "H" endorsement.
  2. Work in all types of weather conditions (i.e. extreme heat and cold and high humidity) for extended periods of time.
  3. Work in a toxic environment (Hydrogen Sulfide Gas) while wearing a self-contained breathing apparatus with full face sealed respiratory equipment weighing 30 lbs.
  4. Work at remote well locations 2 hours from the nearest medical facility.
  5. Work comfortably up to 15" above ground while wearing the appropriate fall protection equipment designated for the job.
  6. Close a large wellhead wing or master valve high or above in case of an emergency.
  7. Be mobile in the event of an emergency.
  8. Ability to evacuate a fellow employee in the event of an emergency.
  9. They will perform other duties assigned.
  10. They work under the direction of the District Manager.

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