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Flowback Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

May act as Lead Operator on job site * Frequent communication and interaction with company representatives * Responsible for the safety of all personnel working on the platform and the safety of the ...

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May act as Lead Operator on job site * Frequent communication and interaction with company representatives * Responsible for the safety of all personnel working on the platform and the safety of the ...

New

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Flowback Operator information

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How much do flowback operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for flowback operator in the United States is $20.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a flowback operator?

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.

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 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 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.

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.

How much does a flowback operator make?

A flowback operator typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. Overtime, certifications, and working in remote or challenging environments can also influence compensation.

What cities are hiring for Flowback Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Flowback Operator job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Flowback Operator jobs?

The most popular types of Flowback Operator jobs are:

What states have the most Flowback Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Flowback Operator jobs include:

Infographic showing various Flowback Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,306 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Flowback Operator III (Watford City, ND)

Trilogy Oilfield Services

Watford City, ND • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Join Our Team as a Flowback Operator III in Watford City, ND!

Are you an experienced oil and gas professional looking to take your career to the next level? Trilogy LLC is seeking a skilled Flowback Operator III to join our team in Watford City, ND.

About Us:

Trilogy is a leading provider of oilfield services in the Bakken and Permian Basin regions. With a focus on safety, efficiency, and quality, we strive to deliver top-notch solutions to our customers while creating opportunities for professional growth and development for our employees. At Trilogy, we are committed to excellence in everything we do, and we are looking for talented individuals to join our team and help us continue to drive innovation in the oil and gas industry.

What You’ll Do:

  • Operate and maintain equipment for flowback operations
  • Monitor flowback processes to ensure efficiency and safety
  • Troubleshoot equipment issues and make necessary repairs
  • Adhere to all safety protocols and regulations
  • Supervise and collaborate with team members to achieve production goals

What You’ll Bring:

  • 4+ years of inland flowback/well testing or 7+ years of offshore experience
  • Knowledge of equipment used in flowback processes
  • Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills

Key Accountabilities:

  • Field management of flowback/well test crew, equipment, and service as the Primary Company Representative on site.

  • Responsible for HSE procedures and documentation on site for overall well test operations.

  • Responsible for accurate data gathering and reporting to customer on site.

  • Job is on-call basis and requires the Operator III to report to job site when assigned by Operations Manager and also to maintain daily communication with Operations Manager when not on vacation or days off.

  • Long shifts, regularly 12 hours on site.

  • Requires extensive travel both within and outside of the area.

  • Extended stays away from home in motels or camps are anticipated.

  • Requires occasional strenuous activities including walking, bending, climbing, and being able to lift a maximum of 100lbs. as may be required on site

  • The job requires direct contact with the other crew members and customer representatives as well as other services on location.

  • The Operator III is directly responsible and accountable for: regular inspection, inventory, and function and pressure testing.

  • Any required paperwork i.e. MSA, daily reports, material transfers, and service tickets must be maintained and accurate.

  • All repairs and maintenance must be properly recorded both in the field and back at the shop to ensure records are accurate.

  • Direct communication is required with Operations Supervisors and Manager or where applicable, Management.

  • Responsible for training and safety of all Trilogy staff on job site.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English.

  • Ability to read and understand important documents such as mandatory safety rules, operating manuals, and maintenance procedures.

  • Ability to apply safety training and procedures in emergency type situations on location.

  • Basic math and computer skills.

  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.).

  • Must have mechanical knowledge and ability to problem solve.

  • Ability to work and drive safely in various weather conditions and environments.

Qualification Requirements:

  • High School diploma or GED. General oilfield experience is acceptable as an offset to minimal education.

  • Must be able to travel for extended amount of time and be on call 24/7.

  • Must maintain a safe driving record as required by company policy.

  • Must successfully pass pre-employment drug and alcohol screening as required by company policy.

  • Valid H2S, WHIMS, TDG certifications. First Aid certification preferred.

Physical Requirements:

  • Proper implementation of PPE; hard hat, safety glasses, steel/protected toe boots, hearing protection, H2S monitor, etc.

  • Must be able to lift and move materials up to 75 pounds frequently, anything above 75 pounds requires mechanical assistance or a team lift.

  • Requires pushing and pulling, bending, standing, kneeling, carrying, sitting, climbing for extended periods of time each shift.

  • Must be able to swing a sledgehammer repeatedly.

  • Exposure to moderate to loud noise levels.

  • Exposure to warm, hot, and cold temperatures.

Benefits:

  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Vision insurance

Schedule:

  • 12-hour shift

Ability to commute/relocate:

  • Watford City, ND: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Experience:

  • Flowback/Well Testing or Production: 3-4 years (Required)

License/Certification:

  • Driver's License (Required)

Shift availability:

  • Day Shift
  • Night Shift

Willingness to travel:

  • 75% (Preferred)

Work Location:

  • In person


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