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Foundation Drill Rig Operator Jobs in Houston, TX

Work with drillers, rig managers, directional drillers, and/or operator real-time centers to maximize drilling performance on Patterson rigs. * Visit rig sites and work directly with drillers and/or ...

Work with drillers, rig managers, directional drillers, and/or operator real-time centers to maximize drilling performance on Patterson rigs. * Visit rig sites and work directly with drillers and/or ...

MPD Field Operator

Katy, TX · On-site

$36 - $40/hr

... Field Operator to support Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) operations in the field. The ideal ... drilling rig operations.This role is responsible for the installation, operation, maintenance ...

MPD Field Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$34 - $40/hr

... Field Operator to support Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) operations in the field. The ideal ... Safely install, rig up, operate, and rig down MPD equipment on drilling locations. * Monitor and ...

Ability to travel to domestic and international rig-up yards, test yards, and operating drilling rigs , approximately 25% of time worked . * Ability to climb stairs, ladders, and elevated rig ...

FDL will be first point of contact for customers representative and rig operators at the rig site who will guide them through Digital Drilling change and adoption management process. This position ...

Rig Technician

Conroe, TX · On-site

$17 - $23/hr

We are looking for a Rig Technician for our Conroe, TX location. This position would report to the ... foundation equipment, especially Bauer and Klemm Drill Rigs. This position is mainly based in ...

Rig Technician

Conroe, TX · On-site

$17 - $23/hr

We are looking for a Rig Technician for our Conroe, TX location. This position would report to the ... foundation equipment, especially Bauer and Klemm Drill Rigs. This position is mainly based in ...

Rig Technician

Conroe, TX

$17 - $23/hr

We are looking for a Rig Technician for our Conroe, TX location. This position would report to the ... foundation equipment, especially Bauer and Klemm Drill Rigs. This position is mainly based in ...

Showing results 21-40

Foundation Drill Rig Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

$12

$26

$49

How much do foundation drill rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for foundation drill rig operator in Houston, TX is $26.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $29.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a foundation drill rig operator?

Foundation Drill Rig Operators are skilled professionals who operate heavy drilling equipment to create holes or shafts in the ground for building foundations, such as those used in bridges, skyscrapers, and other large structures. Their work involves reading blueprints, setting up and maintaining drilling rigs, monitoring drill operations, and ensuring safety protocols are followed on construction sites. These operators play a crucial role in the early stages of construction projects, as the stability and safety of the entire structure often depend on the quality of the drilled foundations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a foundation drill rig operator?

To thrive as a Foundation Drill Rig Operator, you need hands-on experience with heavy equipment, knowledge of soil and drilling techniques, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with drill rig controls, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications like OSHA or NCCCO are typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help operators manage site challenges and communicate effectively with crew members. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and precise drilling operations that are critical for successful foundation construction.

What are some common challenges faced by foundation drill rig operators on construction sites?

Foundation Drill Rig Operators often encounter challenges such as working in confined or uneven spaces, dealing with varying soil conditions, and adhering to strict safety protocols. Adaptability is crucial, as unexpected obstacles like underground utilities or adverse weather can impact drilling progress. Operators regularly collaborate with site supervisors, engineers, and other trades to ensure that drilling meets project specifications and timelines while maintaining a safe work environment.

What is the difference between Foundation Drill Rig Operator vs Pile Driver?

AspectFoundation Drill Rig OperatorPile Driver
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operation licensesOSHA safety training, equipment operation licenses
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, drilling locationsConstruction sites, pile driving areas
Job DutiesOperate drilling machinery for foundation installationDrive piles into the ground to support structures

Both roles require safety certifications and involve working on construction sites. The Foundation Drill Rig Operator specializes in operating drilling equipment for foundation work, while the Pile Driver focuses on driving piles into the ground. Although their tasks differ, they share similar skills and work environments, often overlapping in construction projects.

What are popular job titles related to Foundation Drill Rig Operator jobs in Houston, TX?

For Foundation Drill Rig Operator jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Foundation Drill Rig Operator jobs in Houston, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Foundation Drill Rig Operator jobs in Houston, TX are:

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Foundation Drill Rig Operator jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Foundation Drill Rig Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Foundation Drill Rig Operator job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,309 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Controls and Automation Support Technician

Patterson-UTI

Houston, TX • On-site

$28.75 - $37.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Patterson-UTI rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

83rd of 87 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

The Controls and Automation Support Technician works with subject matter experts in the Controls and Automation department to support new products. Individuals hired into this role take part in a training program structured to make them experts in [system architecture, hardware, software, networking, remote access, etc.] in order to effectively support the Company's EcoCell battery energy storage technologies, Cortex automation platforms, and proprietary drilling rig control systems. 

The Controls and Automation Support Technician serves as a primary member of technology product teams responsible for the design, development, commissioning and support of new controls and automation system technologies. They travel to drilling rig field locations to perform a variety of controls related service and maintenance activities. Activities include servicing, repairing, troubleshooting, adjusting, testing, and downloading to drilling rig controls and automation systems. Additional duties include training and mentoring crews on EcoCell, Cortex, and drilling rig controls systems, coordinating software and hardware related updates on rigs, and providing appropriate feedback to the jobsite manager and Controls and Automation Manager. 

Detailed Description:

  • Work with resident subject matter experts to become proficient in supporting new technology products
  • Perform controls and systems based inspections, services, and repairs on new technology products and drilling rig control systems
  • Update software and firmware on various types of PLC's, switches, routers, HMI's, VFD's, generator controls, and other components that comprise the drilling rig control systems 
  • Install and commission new EcoCell, Cortex and drilling rig control systems
  • Troubleshoot electrical, controls, and systems based issues via phone and while onsite
  • Assist with development and conduct training with operational crews in preventative maintenance checks and services, including how to properly conduct basic and intermediate repairs
  • Test and diagnose electrical and electronic components and coordinate for the repair of the system or systems
  • Provide recommendations on product improvements and enhancements
  • Supervise maintenance related projects on the rig with the rig crew or third parties
  • Conduct inventories of critical hardware and work with third party vendors to keep minimum parts requirements 
  • Assist with the development of critical spare and replacement parts listings
  • Remotely monitor issues and conduct root cause and trend analysis

Job Requirements:

  • Ability to safely navigate drilling rig work sites with occasional walking, climbing, standing, stepping, etc. during normal rig operating conditions (day/night, outdoor, hot/cold weather, etc.)
  • Ability to display core competencies of electrical theory
  • In depth knowledge and understanding of PLCs, VFDs, MCCs, HMIs, single- and 3-phrase systems, fiber optics, network systems, switches, etc.
  • Ability to utilize a variety of electrical-related tools (e.g. oscilloscopes, voltmeters, multi-meters, power meters, signal generators, frequency counters, etc.
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and other technical documents
  • Ability to upload software configurations for PLCs and other controls-related systems
  • Must possess intermediate to advanced level computer skills with a proven ability to utilize Microsoft Office applications, e.g. MS Word, Power Point, Project, Visio, Excel, etc. and other MS software applications
  • Lift and carry 20 pounds independently while walking on uneven surfaces
  • Bend, stoop, kneel, twist, and crawl occasionally during visits to field and operational work areas
  • Limited to moderate use of a variety of hand and power tools to perform a range of mechanically and electrically oriented functions
  • Clear vision to judge near and far distances to maintain awareness of, watch, and report ongoing work activities to coworkers and third parties
  • Accurately recall information over short and long term memory
  • Stay alert and focused, including during occasional extended work periods
  • Demonstrate clear written and verbal communication skills and ability to promptly give, and follow, directions when working with others
  • Physical ability to immediately respond to emergency situations
  • Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all designated times
  • Knowledge of oil and gas field components, including software and hardware
  • Established interpersonal skills including ability to interact productively with coworkers, customers, and 3rd parties
  • Proficiency with written and oral communication
  • Ability to regularly travel (50-75%) to visit work sites and support business units; may occasionally require extended travel to remote locations and/or overnight stay(s) outside normal office hours

Minimum Qualifications

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • 2+ years relevant work experience with electrical and controls based systems (degree in related field may serve in leu of experience)
  • State-issued driver's license and be eligible to drive a Company vehicle, including ability to meet requirements of Company's Vehicle Use Agreement and Driving Policy

Preferred Qualifications 

  • Bachelor's degree in a computer-/electrical-related field
  • Professional work experience with Omron/Amphion Controls
  • Experience with Yaskawa, GE, and ABB VFD systems
  • 3+ years' experience in oilfield services

Additional Details:

This position requires work both indoors and outdoors in all kinds of weather conditions, including precipitation, cold / heat, high wind, and turbulent conditions. The Technician will be regularly exposed to the typical conditions of the local area where the rig is located.

The Technician must work with an emphasis on safety for themselves and others including coworkers and third parties. They must be willing to work extended schedules that will include working days; and occasionally nights, weekends and holidays. Frequent travel to other Company offices and drilling rig work sites, often in remote locations, is required during normal rig operating conditions (day/night, outdoor hot/cold weather), and employee will be expected to properly use designated personal protective equipment (PPE)

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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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