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Freelance Solids Control Operator Jobs in Houston, TX

... solids. * Follows all safety and compliance rules and regulations * Has the ability to wear and ... Be able to pass "A" (Advanced-Control) Operator training requirements * Other training as necessary ...

... solids. * Follows all safety and compliance rules and regulations * Has the ability to wear and ... Be able to pass "A" (Advanced-Control) Operator training requirements * Other training as necessary ...

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Freelance Solids Control Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

$11

$23

$36

How much do freelance solids control operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance solids control operator in Houston, TX is $23.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.61 and $26.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance solids control operator?

To thrive as a Freelance Solids Control Operator, you need a solid understanding of drilling fluid systems, mechanical aptitude, and relevant experience in oilfield operations. Familiarity with solids control equipment such as centrifuges, shakers, desanders, and knowledge of safety protocols are crucial, and certifications like H2S Alive or OSHA may be required. Strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and effective communication are vital soft skills for working on diverse rigs and collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams. These competencies ensure efficient solids removal, promote environmental compliance, and support safe, productive drilling operations.

What is a freelance solids control operator?

Freelance Solids Control Operators are independent contractors who specialize in managing and maintaining solids control equipment on drilling sites. Their primary role is to remove solid particles from drilling fluids, ensuring the fluids can be reused and the drilling operation runs efficiently. They are hired on a project or temporary basis, often traveling to various drilling locations as needed. These professionals must have expertise in handling specialized equipment and a strong understanding of drilling processes to ensure safety and compliance on site.

What are the typical challenges a freelance solids control operator faces when working on different drilling sites?

Freelance Solids Control Operators often encounter challenges such as adapting to varying equipment brands and site-specific procedures, as each drilling project may use different systems and technologies. They must quickly assess site conditions, understand local safety protocols, and communicate effectively with new teams to ensure efficient solids control and waste management. Additionally, freelancers need to be highly self-reliant, as they are responsible for their own scheduling, travel, and maintaining up-to-date certifications. Building strong relationships with drilling crews and staying current on industry best practices can help overcome these challenges and lead to more consistent work opportunities.

What is the difference between Freelance Solids Control Operator vs Drilling Rig Floorhand?

AspectFreelance Solids Control Operator
  • Certifications: Usually requires solids control certifications and safety training
  • Work Environment: Operates equipment on drilling sites, often outdoors
  • Employer: Hired by drilling companies or as independent contractors
  • Industry Usage: Commonly searched for in oil and gas drilling contexts

While both roles work on drilling sites, a Freelance Solids Control Operator specializes in managing solids control equipment, whereas a Drilling Rig Floorhand assists with rig operations. The operator focuses on equipment maintenance and operation, requiring specific certifications, while the floorhand performs manual labor tasks. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right roles in the oil and gas industry.

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Solids Control Operator jobs in Houston, TX? For Freelance Solids Control Operator jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Solids Control Operator jobs in Houston, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Solids Control Operator jobs in Houston, TX are:
Infographic showing various Freelance Solids Control Operator job openings in Houston, TX as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 15% Full Time, 81% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,938 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Technical Sales Support - Solids Control

National Oilwell Varco

Conroe, TX

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


NOV rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

174th of 487 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Technical Sales/Support Representative is responsible for the collection of data from daily field reports and ensuring that the System Operators are competent in inputting the required information on a daily basis. They are responsible for validating and organizing the data received as well as interpreting the data and provide insight to Customers through face-to-face and/or virtual meetings. Must be well versed with NOV equipment and understand the process of Solids Control/Waste Management equipment. They are also responsible for the bid-generating process and be a technical presence in Operations meetings.

JOB RESPONSIBILITEIS:

  • Generate Quotes
  • Distribute & present data to customers
  • Support and train Operators on proper data entry, reporting requirements, and system usage to maintain consistent data quality.
  • Provide technical support and troubleshooting for NOV Solids Control and Waste Management equipment in field and remote environments.
  • Analyze operational data to identify performance trends, inefficiencies, and potential equipment or process issues.
  • Serve as a technical resource to Operations teams by providing recommendations to optimize equipment performance and operational efficiency.
  • Assist with root cause analysis of equipment or process failures and support implementation of corrective actions.
  • Participate in Operations meetings to provide technical input, performance updates, and operational insights.
  • Coordinate with field personnel, engineering, and operations management to resolve technical issues in a timely manner.
  • Ensure operational practices align with company standards, safety requirements, and customer expectations.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives by documenting lessons learned, best practices, and technical recommendations.
  • Complete retorts and Particle Size Distribution tests as needed
  • Complete Weekly/monthly/quarterly reports
  • Organize and maintain logs and files
  • Plan upcoming projects and handover to Operations
  • Often visit rigs to train and discuss KPI with Operators 
  • Other duties as assigned

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

  • Valid Driver's License
  • Able to Travel
  • Effective Communication Skills
  • Basic Computer Skills
  • Solids Control Experience (preferred)  

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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