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Freelance Offshore Drilling Rig Jobs (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Rig Based Positions

Dickinson, ND · On-site

$25 - $34.50/hr

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 ...

MPD Field Operator

Katy, TX · On-site

$36 - $40/hr

... drilling rig operations.This role is responsible for the installation, operation, maintenance ... Experience supporting offshore or international drilling projects.Physical RequirementsAbility to ...

Drilling operations and rig crew functions. * Code requirements pertaining to the design, construction, safety, and operation of both land and offshore drilling rigs including but not limited to API ...

Senior Engineer- Structural

Houston, TX

$96K - $130K/yr

Drilling and rig crew functions and How drilling structures are used during operation. * How ... offshore drilling rigs including but not limited to API, ASCE, etc. * Discipline specific ...

They work under the direction of the Crane Operator and will use hand and power tools to perform maintenance and repairs to drilling rig equipment. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: * Prepares ...

MPD Field Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$34 - $40/hr

Safely install, rig up, operate, and rig down MPD equipment on drilling locations. * Monitor and ... Experience supporting offshore or international drilling projects. Physical Requirements * Ability ...

Assistant Driller

Houston, TX · On-site

$22 - $29.75/hr

... the rig floor and associated areas to Valaris drilling standards with a particular focus on clear escape routes and walkways. Qualifications / Experience * Three years offshore experience.

Assistant Driller

Houston, TX · On-site

$21.25 - $29/hr

Offshore Drilling Group Transocean is focused on being the employer of choice for the drilling ... Responsible to follow up on the working environment within the rig department. OPERATIONAL ...

Assistant Driller

Houston, TX

$22 - $29.75/hr

... the rig floor and associated areas to Valaris drilling standards with a particular focus on clear escape routes and walkways. Qualifications / Experience * Three years offshore experience.

... offshore project assignments.Essential Functions of the Position1. Perform variety of drilling duties handling drill rods, wrenches and other tools behind the drill rig equipment2. Responsible for ...

... offshore project assignments.Essential Functions of the Position1. Perform variety of drilling duties handling drill rods, wrenches and other tools behind the drill rig equipment2. Responsible for ...

Project Manager, Automation Performance

Houston, TX · On-site

$87K - $114K/yr

NOV Rig Technologies makes and supports the world's most advanced drilling solutions. To learn more ... Minimum of 5 years of experience in technical troubleshooting and repair of offshore oilfield ...

Showing results 41-60

Freelance Offshore Drilling Rig information

See salary details

$20

$41

$69

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

As of Aug 31, 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:

Infographic showing various Freelance Offshore Drilling Rig job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,248 per year, or $41.5 per hour.

U.S. Rig Based Positions

Dickinson, ND • On-site

$25 - $34.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

At H&P, our people are our strength.

Since 1920,Helmerich and Paynehas been the industry's most trusted partner in drillingproductivity and reliability. As the world changes, so does our approach. We are changing the landscape of drilling by using cutting-edge rig technologies and drilling solutions to build upon a century ofsuccess, all while continuing to deliver better outcomes for our customers.

At H&P, our people are our strength. We strive to continually lead with our Core Values that enable employees to develop on their H&P Journey. We believe that doing the right thing means creating a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace that empowers our people to bring their authentic selves to work every day.

Some companies offer career paths. We offer a Journey of a Lifetime. Let's go far, together.

Hear directly from our employees, and leaders about theirunique journeys at Helmerich and Payne.

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 application, you will be asked to specify the position(s) for which you would like to apply.

Location: Odessa, TX, Tyler Texas, Oklahoma City, OK, Grand Junction, CO, Dickinson, ND, Barnesville, OH

Work Type: Onsite

#LI-Onsite

What you will do:

  • Non-supervisory rig-based drilling positions are responsible for performing various manual labor tasks throughout the rig site, including rig up and down activities, general equipment operation, repairs and maintenance on rig components, assigned activities on the rig floor, mud-mixing, handling tubulars in the derrick, and other various duties as assigned.
  • Demonstrate the H&P Company values: Actively C.A.R.E., Service Attitude, Innovative Spirit, and Teamwork.

What you need:

  • The worker must be at least 18 years of age
  • The worker must pass a post-offer physical examination
  • The worker must have proper legal authorization to work in the country where the rig is operating
  • Work assignments are generally 12 hours per day, for 14-28 consecutive days, followed by 14-28 days off
  • Ability to apply common sense to carry out written or oral instructions and to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations
  • Basic ability to understand, speak, read, and write English
  • Basic computer skills required
  • Non-entry-level positions require a minimum of six months of prior drilling experience, as well as knowledge of procedures associated with drilling a well
  • Prior mechanical equipment experience is preferred for motorman positions

Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

***The Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act requires employers in the State of Colorado to disclose the following information. If the position applied to is not located in Colorado, the following information may not apply. In accordance with applicable law, the following represents H&P's good faith estimate of the hiring compensation range for this role. Actual compensation will vary and may be above or below the range as permitted by the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act, based on various factors including but not limited to geographic location, experience, performance, and other considerations permitted by applicable law.

Salary Guidelines:

(Minimum - Maximum)

$25.00 - $34.50

What we offer:

At H&P, our commitment to our people is at the forefront, and that includes benefits that provide employees a sense of health and financial security. We know that life continues outside of employment and actively caring of our people is our priority.

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • Flexible Spending or Health Savings Accounts
  • 401k match
  • Paid Leave Plans
  • Parental & Adoption Benefits
  • Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Educational Assistance
  • Learning & Development Opportunities
  • Flex-scheduling available for qualifying positions to achieve work-life integration

H&P is committed to employing a diverse workforce. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, or disability.

For more information on benefits and job opportunities, please visit Careers | Helmerich & Payne, Inc.

Thank you for your interest in joining our team!

Thank you for your interest in joining our team!