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Full Time Drilling Rig Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nabors Industries

NORTH DAKOTA DRILLER I

Williston, ND · On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

Job Identification 1001204 Posting Date 03/26/2026, 06:27 PM Job Schedule Full time Locations 5131 ... Previous rig experience as a Floorhand, Motorhand and/or Derrickhand for Nabors Drilling or 1 year ...

JDH Contracting

JDH - Vertical Driller

Mount Sterling, KY · On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

Position Type Full Time Description The Drill Crew Operator is responsible for transport of drill ... Ability to operate drilling rig based on conditions and operate rig accordingly * Ability to ...

Oxy

GOA Drilling Engineer

The Woodlands, TX · On-site

Provides full-time engineering support to assigned drilling rig(s). Monitors daily morning report and facilitates data error corrections and coding. Primary responsibility for well file population ...

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How much do full time drilling rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time drilling rig in the United States is $27.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.12 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Full-Time Drilling Rig Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a full-time drilling rig worker, you need physical stamina, mechanical aptitude, and a solid understanding of drilling operations, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant vocational training. Familiarity with drilling machinery, safety protocols, and certifications like H2S Alive or OSHA are typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication set outstanding workers apart in this demanding environment. These skills and qualifications are essential for ensuring operational efficiency, safety, and the prevention of accidents on the rig.

What are full time drilling rig jobs?

Full time drilling rig jobs involve working on rigs that are used to drill wells for oil, gas, or other resources. These roles can include positions such as drillers, roughnecks, toolpushers, and derrickhands, who are responsible for operating equipment, maintaining safety, and ensuring efficient drilling operations. Workers typically spend long hours on-site, often in remote locations, and must adhere to strict safety protocols. Full time employment usually offers benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, and opportunities for career advancement within the energy sector.

What is the difference between Full Time Drilling Rig vs Contract Drilling Rig?

AspectFull Time Drilling RigContract Drilling Rig
Employment TypePermanent, full-time positionTemporary, project-based employment
Work EnvironmentOn-site at drilling locations, consistent scheduleOn-site at various locations, project-specific schedule
CertificationsRequired certifications like H2S, BOP, safety trainingSimilar certifications, often required for project compliance
Employer UsageOperated by oil companies or large drilling contractorsHired through contracting companies for specific projects

Full Time Drilling Rigs involve permanent employment with consistent schedules and benefits, often with the same employer. Contract Drilling Rigs are hired for specific projects, offering flexibility but temporary employment. Both roles require similar certifications and work in comparable environments, but differ mainly in employment stability and duration.

What are some common challenges faced by full-time drilling rig workers, and how can they be managed effectively?

Full-time drilling rig workers often encounter challenges such as long shifts, physically demanding tasks, and exposure to harsh weather conditions. Effective management includes maintaining strong communication with team members, adhering strictly to safety protocols, and taking regular breaks to prevent fatigue. Building resilience and staying up-to-date with the latest safety and operational procedures can help workers adapt to the demanding environment and reduce the risk of accidents or injuries.
What cities are hiring for Full Time Drilling Rig jobs? Cities with the most Full Time Drilling Rig job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Drilling Rig jobs? The most popular types of Drilling Rig jobs are:
What states have the most Full Time Drilling Rig jobs? States with the most job openings for Full Time Drilling Rig jobs include:
Full Time Drilling Rig jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Drilling Rig job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, 34% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,259 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Drilling Rig Operator

Lighthouse Drilling, LLC

El Dorado, KS

$26 - $29/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 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!