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Independent Contractor Oil Rig Jobs in New Mexico

Operator I - Relief

Hobbs, NM · On-site

$16 - $21.75/hr

Directs the assigned floor hands and derrick hands to safely perform the service tasks contracted ... Performing services on oil and gas wells as part of a 3/5-person crew of a well service rig

Water Resources Tech II

Jal, NM · On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

Work hand in hand with 3rd party water transfer crews to lead them from the job rig up to water ... Minimum of 3 years of basic oilfield experience required, with Lease Operating or Water Resources ...

Water Resources Tech II

Jal, NM · On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

Work hand in hand with 3rd party water transfer crews to lead them from the job rig up to water ... Minimum of 3 years of basic oilfield experience required, with Lease Operating or Water Resources ...

Water Resources Tech II

Jal, NM · On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

Work hand in hand with 3rd party water transfer crews to lead them from the job rig up to water ... Minimum of 3 years of basic oilfield experience required, with Lease Operating or Water Resources ...

Water Resources Tech II

Jal, NM · On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

Work hand in hand with 3rd party water transfer crews to lead them from the job rig up to water ... Minimum of 3 years of basic oilfield experience required, with Lease Operating or Water Resources ...

Minimum 2 years' experience in oilfield with working knowledge of rigs and downhole experience ... contractors and well service personnel * Ability to work independently in an environment under ...

Operator-RAFT

Artesia, NM · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

... contractors and well service personnel * Ability to work independently in an environment under ... is an oil & gas completion and production solutions company with a foundation built on well ...

Minimum 2 years' experience in oilfield with working knowledge of rigs and downhole experience ... contractors and well service personnel * Ability to work independently in an environment under ...

Water Truck Driver

Deming, NM · On-site

$19 - $24.75/hr

... contractors. We specialize in dam construction and rehabilitation, power transmission and ... Perform daily safety checks of fluid levels on oil, water, fuel and inspections for leaks and ...

Showing results 21-40

Independent Contractor Oil Rig information

See New Mexico salary details

$382

$1.1K

$2K

How much do independent contractor oil rig jobs pay per week?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average weekly pay for independent contractor oil rig in New Mexico is $1,055.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $698.08 and $1,175.00 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do independent contractor oil rig workers work on oil rigs?

Yes, independent contractor oil rig workers perform tasks directly on oil rigs, often in roles such as drilling, maintenance, or safety. They typically work in challenging environments and may need certifications like H2S or OSHA training, with schedules that can include long shifts and rotations offshore.

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.

Is it hard to get hired at an independent contractor oil rig?

Getting hired as an independent contractor on an oil rig can be competitive and requires relevant experience, certifications such as H2S or safety training, and sometimes specialized skills like welding or equipment operation. Employers often prioritize candidates with a strong safety record and the ability to work in challenging environments, which can make the hiring process demanding.

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.

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 most commonly searched types of Oil Rig jobs in New Mexico? The most popular types of Oil Rig jobs in New Mexico are:
What are popular job titles related to Independent Contractor Oil Rig jobs in New Mexico? For Independent Contractor Oil Rig jobs in New Mexico, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Oil Rig jobs in New Mexico look for? The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Oil Rig jobs in New Mexico are:
What cities in New Mexico are hiring for Independent Contractor Oil Rig jobs? Cities in New Mexico with the most Independent Contractor Oil Rig job openings:
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Oil Rig job openings in New Mexico as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,893 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Operator I - Relief

Ranger

Hobbs, NM • On-site

$16 - $21.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

SUMMARY
The Relief Operator will assume the role of Rig Operator if they are not able to complete his job duties as assigned. Under the direction of a Rig Manager, the Relief Operator organizes the rig crew (Floor Hands and Derrick Hands), conducts Job Safety Meetings, delegates the collection of materials and equipment needed to perform the contracted services, drives the Rig to the work site, operates the rig and equipment and directs the crew to set-up and prepare the rig for the tasks to be performed. Directs the assigned floor hands and derrick hands to safely perform the service tasks contracted by a client utilizing the equipment provided by the employer; documents services performed, the billable supplies used during the process and the time elapsed while performing the contracted services.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Lead the crew in the rigging up and rigging down of the workover Rig in a safe manner and performing/documenting post rig up inspections
  • Pulling and laying down Rods, Tubing and Casing by operating the rig controls
  • Guide and manage the rig crew on a daily basis
  • Assist in training and mentoring SSE employees and floor hands as needed
  • Assist Rig Manager in various tasks anywhere on the rig as directed by Rig Manager
  • Prepare rig tickets correctly and in timely fashion to include correct pricing on rig rates, re-billable items, manage hours for crew members daily
  • Performing services on oil and gas wells as part of a 3/5-person crew of a well service rig
  • Assisting in rigging up and rigging down
  • Driving a crew truck when necessary
  • Other duties as assigned

REQUIRED EDUCATION, QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
  • High school Diploma, GED or equivalent
  • 1-2 years of Floor Hand experience
  • 1-2 years of Derrick hand experience
  • Advanced Problem solving and organizational skills
  • Excellent customer service, interpersonal skills and verbal / written English communication skills
  • Ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment, run pipe Talley's, figure pipe weights, keep good pipe counts, know how to space out pumping units, run and pull ESP's, know pipe torques specifications, pick up and operate power swivel and principles of operating mud pumps
  • Supervisory level of well control training
  • Class B CDL license to drive workover rig (not required-but encouraged)

COMPUTER
  • High level of computer skills in MS Word, MS Excel, and MS Outlook

PRE-EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS
Must complete and pass all required pre-employment screenings.
ABOUT THE COMPANY
Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions company with a foundation built on well servicing, wireline, and natural gas processing. Ranger Energy is committed to providing employees with a benefits program that is both comprehensive and competitive. The programs are designed to invest in you and the things you care about - your health, your family, and your future. Come join our team of highly skilled, motivated employees, working on state-of-the-art equipment with outstanding compensation and additional benefits, including:
  • Medical/Dental/Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account/Health Savings Account
  • Life Insurance
  • Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with Employer Match
  • PTO (depending on eligibility)

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.