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Independent Contractor Oil Rig Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Independently use heavy-duty handheld and long-handled tools * Listen for unusual noises that ... Regularly check rig and equipment for problems and safety issues on an ongoing basis * Use forklift ...

Independently use heavy-duty handheld and long-handled tools * Listen for unusual noises that ... Regularly check rig and equipment for problems and safety issues on an ongoing basis * Use forklift ...

Senior Drilling Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

... oil and gas wells. Work closely with Drilling Manager, Operational Geologist(s), and Field ... Evaluate appropriate rigs, rig contracts, and on-site drilling supervisors, directional drillers ...

Take initiative and work independently during downtime * Support other crew members by carrying ... on a rig based position for drilling contractor * High School Diploma or GED * Forklift ...

... oil and coolant on engines Assist Derrickhand with watching and maintaining shakers, mud pits and ... a rig based position for drilling contractor High School Diploma or GED Forklift Certification ...

Take initiative and work independently during downtime * Support other crew members by carrying ... on a rig based position for drilling contractor * High School Diploma or GED * Forklift ...

... oil and coolant on engines Assist Derrickhand with watching and maintaining shakers, mud pits and ... a rig based position for drilling contractor High School Diploma or GED Forklift Certification ...

Field Maintenance Tech PDC

Fruita, CO · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

The Field Maintenance Technician 1 travels to drilling rig field locations to perform a variety of ... Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds independently while walking on uneven surfaces * Ability to ...

Field Maintenance Tech PDC

Fruita, CO · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

The Field Maintenance Technician 1 travels to drilling rig field locations to perform a variety of ... Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds independently while walking on uneven surfaces * Ability to ...

Roadside Assistance Side Gig

Fort Collins, CO · On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

The Allstate Good Hands Rescue Network (GHRN) is a crowdsourced network of independent contractors ... oil and lube techs, highway maintenance workers, tune-up techs, mechanical repair technicians ...

Oil & Gas Title Attorney

Denver, CO · Remote

$140K - $210K/yr

Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment. * High level ... and contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply.

... contracting company that provides both specific and turnkey services for its customers in the gas, oil, electric and telecommunications industry. We are headquartered in Minnesota, with branch ...

Cyber Analyst

Aurora, CO

$100K - $140K/yr

... independent contractor) and annual random drug screening for all current T3i personnel. All drug screening includes testing for the following drugs, at a minimum: Marijuana (CBD, hemp oil, and other ...

HSE Advisor

Greeley, CO · On-site

$48 - $50/hr

... and contractors * Provide ongoing coaching and mentoring to improve capabilities and capacity in ... Minimum of 5-10 years direct field experience in oil and gas * Previous workover or drilling rig ...

Mechanical Inspector

Lakewood, CO · On-site

$25.25 - $33.50/hr

The inspector will be required to sign an independent contractor agreement/sub-contractor agreement ... Industrial experience in Oil & gas / Power & Utility / Construction / Manufacturing, etc ...

Showing results 21-40

Independent Contractor Oil Rig information

What is an independent contractor oil rig?

An Independent Contractor Oil Rig job involves working on an oil rig without being a direct employee of a specific company. Contractors are typically hired for specialized skills, such as drilling, welding, or equipment maintenance. They negotiate their own contracts, manage their schedules, and are responsible for providing their own insurance and certifications. This role offers flexibility but also requires extensive experience, adherence to safety regulations, and the ability to work in harsh environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an independent contractor oil rig?

To excel as an Independent Contractor Oil Rig worker, you need strong mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and extensive safety training, often supported by relevant certifications such as HAZWOPER, TWIC, and basic offshore safety induction. Familiarity with drilling equipment, rig monitoring systems, and specialized tools is essential for this role. Strong problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and clear communication skills help you work efficiently in dynamic and challenging environments. These competencies ensure safe, effective operations and the ability to tackle complex tasks in remote, high-risk settings.

What is the typical work schedule and living arrangement for independent contractors on oil rigs?

Independent contractors on oil rigs usually work rotational shifts, such as two weeks on followed by two weeks off, though schedules can vary by company and project. During their rotation, contractors typically live on the rig in shared accommodations, with provided meals and basic amenities. The work environment is remote, demanding, and requires flexibility, as shifts are often long and conditions can change rapidly. Contractors are expected to collaborate closely with permanent crew members and other contractors to maintain safety and efficiency throughout operations.

Do independent contractor oil rig workers work on oil rigs?

Yes, independent contractor oil rig workers perform tasks directly on oil rigs, often handling operations such as drilling, maintenance, and safety procedures. They typically require specialized skills, certifications, and adherence to safety protocols while working in offshore or onshore environments. These roles usually involve shift work and physical labor in challenging conditions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Oil Rig jobs in Colorado?

The most popular types of Oil Rig jobs in Colorado are:

What are popular job titles related to Independent Contractor Oil Rig jobs in Colorado?

For Independent Contractor Oil Rig jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Oil Rig jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Oil Rig jobs in Colorado are:

Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Oil Rig job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Motorhand -Lower Rockies

Patterson-UTI

Fruita, CO • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Patterson-UTI rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

83rd of 87 rated oil and gas companies


Job description


Patterson-UTI Drilling
The New Standard for Drilling Performance
Drill safer, smarter and faster with Patterson-UTI Drilling's comprehensive fleet of pad-capable rigs featuring advanced walking systems to enhance your operations so you can reach your apex.
The Motorhand's primary duty is to ensure that all equipment is operating and functioning properly and execute minor repair work on equipment. The Motorhand is responsible for the generators, equipment, and systems that power the rig and drilling activities. Additional responsibilities include off-loading materials, maintaining equipment, and assisting in rig up and rig down. The Motorhand works closely with and oversees Floorhands on the rig floor, assists the Derrickhand as needed, and assists the Driller in day-to-day operations.
Detailed Description:
  • Lift and place slips weighing approximately 150 pounds with another person occasionally during the tour work shift
  • Independently use heavy-duty handheld and long-handled tools
  • Listen for unusual noises that signify equipment and machinery problems
  • Maintain spatial orientation and awareness to safely move around work environment with many moving objects
  • Take initiative and work independently during downtime
  • Wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all designated times which could include but is not limited to: hard hat, safety glasses, coveralls, work gloves, respirator, and hearing protection
  • Regularly inspect, maintain, and repair generators, equipment, and SCR or VFD house
  • Responsible for hydraulic and electrical systems and equipment
  • Ensure that all preventative maintenance is performed on all equipment and that all log sheets and maintenance sheets are filled out correctly and are up to date on all required equipment
  • Responsible for daily inspection of the following: working order of all main engines, air compressors and air system, electrical equipment, BOP and accumulator, engine radiators, circulating water pumps, oil transfer pumps, and the running order and blow down of the boiler
  • Work in a heavy industrial environment which includes working around constantly moving overhead machinery, being in close proximity to loud equipment and handling potentially hazardous chemicals
  • Inspect main engines every tour for proper working order by checking the following: oil level, coolant, gauges, possible oil leaks, noise and vibrations and changing oil as needed
  • Provide instructions, train, and oversee Floorhands during drilling activities
  • Regularly check rig and equipment for problems and safety issues on an ongoing basis
  • Use forklift to off-load and move materials
  • In charge of all lock-out/tag-out of breakers
  • Keep a daily log of maintenance and repair activities
  • Assist Derrickhand with mixing chemicals and other mud maintenance as needed
  • Assist with rig up / down procedures
  • General upkeep of the rig and drilling floor; includes regular sweeping, shoveling, cleaning, painting, washing of equipment and related housekeeping duties
  • Support other crew members as needed, ensure compliance with safety procedures, and other additional tasks as assigned
  • Other duties as assigned that may be outside of this job description
Job Requirements:
  • Demonstrated ability to successfully complete all duties of a Floorhand
  • Ability or aptitude to maintain and repair various types of equipment, engines and machinery
  • Able to stand or stand and walk for a minimum of 3.5 hours and up to 12 hours without being able to sit and while wearing steel-toed boots
  • Able to repetitively climb steep stairs and be able to lift and carry 50 pounds independently while walking on uneven surfaces
  • Must be comfortable working at heights (50 ft. or greater) for extended periods of time
  • Bend, stoop, kneel, twist, and crawl throughout the tour work shift
  • Clear vision to judge near and far distances to maintain awareness of, watch, and report ongoing work activities to coworkers and third parties
  • Accurate recall over short and long-term memory
  • Stay alert and focused up to 12.5 hours while performing repetitive and routine activities
  • Demonstrate clear communication skills including ability to read, write and speak English as well as understand and promptly follow verbal and written instructions in English
  • Willing to travel to and work in remote locations on a rotational schedule which consists of 14 days on / 14 days off, working 12.5 hour shifts that can include days or nights and as well as weekends and holidays
  • Willing to work mandatory and unscheduled hours outside of your assigned schedule with little or no advanced notice
  • Must be willing and able to attend and successfully complete classroom training and testing to qualify for a rig assignment
  • Able to successfully meet pre-employment testing requirements which may include, without limitation, pre-employment drug and alcohol test(s) and background checks as well as drug and/or alcohol testing periodically during employment (subject to state and federal laws)
Minimum Qualifications
  • Internal applicants will need at least 3 months experience as a Floorhand and the external applicant will need at least 3 months of Motorhand experience
Certification
  • Forklift Certification or willingness to complete Forklift Certification training within 60 days
Preferred Qualifications
  • 6 months of experience as a Motorhand on a land drilling rig
  • High School Diploma or GED

Additional Details:
This position requires the person to work outdoors for an entire tour work shift in all kinds of weather conditions, including precipitation, cold / heat, high wind, and turbulent conditions. They will be exposed to the typical conditions of the local area where the rig is located. Southern states generally experience hot summers where temperatures range from 80° to low 100° with high humidity; winters have temperatures that generally do not go below 20°. Northern states generally have hot summers with similar conditions and have cold, windy winters, with low temperatures that can be as cold as -40°.
Rate of Pay: Starting at $28.50/hr.
This role is classified as Hourly
The role is eligible to receive per diem
At Patterson-UTI, we are committed to providing a comprehensive benefits package to you and your family. Employees are eligible to participate in the following benefits based on timely election and any associated premium payments: Medical, Prescription, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Account with the appropriate Medical Plan, Life Insurance, AD&D and Disability, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, 401(k) Retirement Savings and Employee Assistance Program. In addition, this role may be eligible for Paid Time Off as per Company policy
The wage and benefits information provided herein are accurate as of the date of posting. All terms and conditions of employment are subject to change at any time, without notice, subject to applicable law.

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