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Freelance Offshore Drilling Rig Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... the rig free of all unnecessary tools and equipment. Relieve on the drill floor as required in ... Participate in company approved and recommended training both onshore and offshore. Assist the ...

Experienced in offshore marine operations, industrial environment, and drilling operations ... Supervise and monitor rig positioning and anchor mooring or preloading and leg penetration during ...

Whilst onboard the drilling rig, you will work under the guidance of the core crew subsea personnel ... Minimum of 2 years' experience working offshore with Subsea Well Control Systems * Familiarity with ...

Experience in Deepwater Directional Drilling Operations and Floating Rig Operations to execute offshore drilling programs under complex and high-risk environments. 4.Experience with GeoSteering ...

At a Glance: Non-supervisory rig-based drilling positions include positions such as Floorman (entry-level), Roustabout (Offshore entry-level), Motorman and Derrickman . When completing your ...

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Freelance Offshore Drilling Rig information

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$20

$41

$69

How much do freelance offshore drilling rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance offshore drilling rig in the United States is $41.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.38 and $44.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance offshore drilling rig?

Freelance offshore drilling rigs refer to drilling professionals or teams who work independently, rather than as full-time employees, on offshore oil and gas rigs. These freelancers are contracted for specific projects or time periods to operate, maintain, or supervise drilling operations at sea. Their roles can vary, but typically involve overseeing equipment, ensuring safety protocols, and collaborating with other specialists on the rig. Offshore work is physically demanding and often requires specialized training and certifications. Freelancers in this field are valued for their flexibility, expertise, and ability to quickly adapt to new rig environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance offshore drilling rig worker?

To excel as a Freelance Offshore Drilling Rig Worker, you typically need technical knowledge of drilling operations, safety procedures, and relevant certifications such as Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET). Familiarity with drilling equipment, safety management systems, and industry software is often required. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and communication skills help individuals navigate the challenges of remote, high-pressure environments. These competencies are vital to ensure operational efficiency, safety, and effective collaboration on offshore rigs.

What are some common challenges freelance professionals face when working on offshore drilling rigs?

Freelance professionals on offshore drilling rigs often encounter challenges such as adapting to rotating shifts, being away from home for extended periods, and working in remote, sometimes harsh environments. Additionally, freelancers must quickly integrate with established teams and adhere to strict safety protocols and operational procedures. Effective communication, adaptability, and a strong safety mindset are key to overcoming these challenges and succeeding in this dynamic workplace.

What is the difference between Freelance Offshore Drilling Rig vs Offshore Drilling Engineer?

AspectFreelance Offshore Drilling RigOffshore Drilling Engineer
CredentialsCertifications in safety, rig operations, and sometimes specialized technical trainingEngineering degree (petroleum, mechanical, or civil), relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentOnboard offshore rigs, physically demanding, remote locationsOffice-based or on-site at drilling locations, technical and supervisory tasks
Employer & Industry UsageIndependent contractors or companies hiring freelance rig crewsOil & gas companies, drilling contractors, engineering firms

Freelance Offshore Drilling Rigs are mobile units operated by independent contractors, focusing on rig operations. Offshore Drilling Engineers design, plan, and oversee drilling projects, often working in office or on-site. The roles differ mainly in responsibilities and work environment, but both require safety and technical certifications.

More about Freelance Offshore Drilling Rig jobs

What cities are hiring for Freelance Offshore Drilling Rig jobs?

Cities with the most Freelance Offshore Drilling Rig job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Offshore Drilling Rig jobs?

The most popular types of Offshore Drilling Rig jobs are:

What states have the most Freelance Offshore Drilling Rig jobs?

States with the most job openings for Freelance Offshore Drilling Rig jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Offshore Drilling Rig jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Offshore Drilling Rig jobs are:

Infographic showing various Freelance Offshore Drilling Rig job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,248 per year, or $41.5 per hour.

Project Manager - Western Hemisphere - Brandt

Houston, TX • On-site

National Oilwell Varco
Oil and Gas Extraction • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


NOV rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

121st of 499 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Overview
The Project Manager is responsible for planning and executing solids control projects across land and offshore drilling operations. This role ensures equipment, personnel, and services are delivered safely, on time, and in line with customer expectations. The position sits between operations, service technicians, field crews, and the client, with full accountability for project performance.

Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage solids control projects from planning to mobilization through execution.
Coordinate equipment, personnel, and logistics for land and offshore rigs.
Work closely with internal stake holders, 3rd party contractors, drilling contractors, and operators to align on scope and execution.
Monitor daily operations, performance, and cost against plan.
Ensure compliance with all HSE standards and company procedures.
Identify operational risks early and resolve issues in real time.
Manage vendors, transportation, and equipment readiness.
Track project financials including cost control, invoicing, and margin performance.
Provide clear reporting to internal leadership and customers.
Support field teams and step in when escalation is needed.

Requirements
Experience in solids control, drilling fluids, or related oilfield services.
Proven track record managing field operations or projects in oil and gas.
Strong understanding of drilling operations, rig workflows, and equipment.
Ability to operate in high pressure environments with tight timelines.
Strong communication skills with both field personnel and customers.
Willingness to travel to field locations, including offshore as required.

Preferred
Experience with centrifuges, shakers, and related solids control equipment.
Offshore experience and relevant certifications (BOSIET, HUET, etc.).
PMP or equivalent project management training.

Success Looks Like
Safe execution with zero incidents.
Equipment on location and running when the rig needs it.
Minimal non productive time tied to solids control.
Projects delivered on budget with strong margins.
Customers who trust you to solve problems without escalation.


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About NOV

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Throughout every region in the world and across every area of drilling and production, our family of companies has provided the technical expertise, advanced equipment and operational support necessary for success. We have the people, capabilities and vision to serve the needs of a challenging and evolving industry. One the world can’t live without. We are a global family of thousands of individuals, working as one team to create lasting impact for ourselves, our customers and the communities where we live and work. We take responsibility for each other and our company’s future, knowing that personal ownership leads to broader success. We believe in purposeful innovation because we see what others do not and we act. Through business innovation, product creation and service delivery, we are driven to power the industry that powers the world better.

Industry

Oil and gas extraction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1841