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Freelance Oil Rig Operator Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Pipe Tester

El Dorado, KS · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

... operator. This is a safety-sensitive position. Major duties : * Performs initial completions, remedial or downhole maintenance operations. * Assists in servicing of gas and oil wells; transports rig ...

Driller Assistant - Wichita KS

Goddard, KS · On-site

$22.75 - $31/hr

This role involves operating, maintaining, and transporting drilling equipment while ensuring ... Properly maintain assigned company vehicles, scheduling oil changes, checking fluid levels, and ...

Freelance Oil Rig Operator information

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A freelance oil rig operator can potentially earn around $4,000 per week due to high demand for skilled workers in the oil and gas industry, especially with experience and certifications like H2S and safety training. Such roles often involve long shifts in challenging environments and may require specialized technical skills but typically do not require a college degree. Earnings depend on location, experience, and the specific employer.

Can you get an offshore oil rig job with no experience?

Freelance oil rig operators typically require prior experience and relevant certifications such as H2S and safety training. Entry-level positions may be limited, but gaining skills through training programs or apprenticeships can improve chances of employment in the industry.

What is the difference between Freelance Oil Rig Operator vs Contract Oil Rig Worker?

AspectFreelance Oil Rig OperatorContract Oil Rig Worker
CredentialsCertifications in offshore safety, equipment operationSimilar certifications, often required for safety and operation
Work EnvironmentOn offshore oil rigs, variable locationsOn offshore oil rigs, temporary or project-based
Employer/Industry UsageSelf-employed or hired through agencies, flexible contractsHired by companies for specific projects, fixed-term contracts

Both Freelance Oil Rig Operators and Contract Oil Rig Workers operate in offshore environments with similar certifications. The key difference lies in employment type: freelancers work independently or through agencies with flexible arrangements, while contract workers are hired directly for specific projects with fixed durations.

Can you make 200k in the oil field?

Freelance oil rig operators can potentially earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand environments. However, earnings vary based on factors such as location, certifications, hours worked, and the complexity of the rig operations.

How much money do oil rig operators make?

Oil rig operators typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, with experienced workers and those working offshore or in specialized roles earning higher wages. Compensation often includes shift differentials, overtime pay, and benefits, reflecting the demanding environment and technical skills required for the job.
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Oil Rig Operator jobs in Kansas? For Freelance Oil Rig Operator jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Oil Rig Operator jobs in Kansas look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Oil Rig Operator jobs in Kansas are:
What cities in Kansas are hiring for Freelance Oil Rig Operator jobs? Cities in Kansas with the most Freelance Oil Rig Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Freelance Oil Rig Operator job openings in Kansas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 17% Contract, and 14% Nights. Highlights an 67% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 31% Remote job distribution.

Drilling Rig Operator

Lighthouse Drilling, LLC

El Dorado, KS • On-site

$26 - $29/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Position Overview:

Operators lead a three-to-five-person rig crew while safely operating drilling rig components. This is a safety-sensitive position. They are responsible for rig up and down activities, general equipment repairs, and maintenance of rig components. Operators conduct safety meetings and assign activities on the rig floor or derrick. They supervise the mud-mixing duties and other duties performed by floor hands & derrick hands. Operators are responsible for their crew performing these duties safely and efficiently.
This is a safety-sensitive position.
Major Duties:
  • Ensures all crew members are at the rig and prepared to work at the scheduled time.
  • Performs routine operating functions and troubleshooting on all equipment with direction from operation personnel and the client company representative.
  • Operates the draw works and assesses downhole conditions and well pressures.
  • Handles jack stands and instructs crew on securing the guy wires.
  • Provides operating reports (via Pason) to the Field Supervisor-Rigs or Toolpusher.
  • Tested and monitored equipment using correct procedures.
  • Trained and directed the crew on safety and job procedures.
  • Establishes daily maintenance & housekeeping program for the rig.
  • Oversees the setting up, taking down, and transportation of drilling rigs & equipment.
  • May be requested to work outside of regular work schedule to meet customer needs.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Basic Requirements:
  • We expect more out of our drillers than most contractors. We need them to be driven and able to direct crew members to work hard.
  • We also expect our Drillers to lead by example via. their good work ethic.
  • Previous Drilling Experience on a Kelly Drive Rig.
  • A valid Driver's License is required (CDL Preferred but not required).
  • Knowledge of basic mechanical functions.
  • Oilfield industry experience.
  • Must pass pre-employment drug and alcohol screening & background check.
  • Able to work well with & lead a team 

Preferred (not required):
  • High School diploma, GED, or equivalent education.
  • Clean Driving Record.
  • CDL.
  • 2+ years of previous drilling rig operations experience (required).

Physical Requirements:
  • Able to lift, move, or carry up to 85 pounds.
  • Able to regularly walk and climb stairs up to 15' high.
  • Able to stay alert and attentive for a 12-hour tour while performing sometimes repetitive tasks.
  • Able to open/close valves requiring upwards of 160 lbs of torque.
  • Able to pull drill slips with another employee and latch/unlatch tongs.
  • Able to listen for unusual noises that signify equipment and machinery problems.

Mental Alertness Requirements:
  • Work in a constant state of alertness and sin a afe manner.
  • Have, display & maintain the ability to perform tasks involving high levels of cognitive function and judgment.
  • Not being mentally or physically impaired from any cause can adversely affect an employee’s ability to safely and completely perform the duties of the position.
  • Have, display & maintain the ability to cope with sudden changes in surroundings and/or emergencies and/or alarms.
  • Have, display & maintain, and demonstrate a caring, committed, and concerned attitude about personal and crewmember safety.

Typical working conditions and hazards:
  • Work is performed in all weather conditions.
  • Able to perform duties with protective equipment.
  • Potential hazards include working near or with heavy tools and moving machinery.
  • Occasional work will be done on slick surfaces due to weather, drilling mud, or oil/grease.

Not Your Typical Drilling Company:
Founded in 2018, Lighthouse Drilling, LLC is a family-owned and & operated drilling company with a quickly growing reputation in Central Kansas, Northern Oklahoma, and Southern Nebraska. Lighthouse offers a family-friendly, enjoyable work atmosphere and provides advancement opportunities for individuals who are humble and hard-working.
Core Values:

Integrity  - Safety  - Performance

Our motto is "Excellence in Drilling" and we mean it.
For full-time employees, Lighthouse provides:
  • Highly competitive salaries
  • Company Driver (Pickup Truck) 
  • Advancement Opportunities
  • Per Diem
  • Health Benefits
  • Dental Benefits
  • Vision Benefits
  • Paid Time Off (starting at 12 months of employment)
  • 100% company-matched IRA program
  • Annual allowance for work clothes 
  • Annual Reimbursements for Gear / Boots & Overalls
  • Performance-based bonuses & incentives
  • Company Uniforms
  • Paid Holidays 

Drug-Free Environment - Consistent Work Schedule - Lots of Overtime Available - Established and Growing Company.
Check out our website: www.LighthouseDrilling.com
Thanks!