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Independent Contractor Oil Rig Jobs in Houston, TX

Woodside Energy

Wellsite Leader

Houston, TX · On-site

Communicate all operations in writing to the rig contractor and vendors, obtaining EM/Supt approval ... offshore oil rigs. If you think you can do this job but don't meet all the criteria, that's OK!

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All JobsIndependent Contractor Oil Rig JobsIndependent Contractor Oil Rig Jobs in Houston, TX

Independent Contractor Oil Rig information

See Houston, TX salary details

$376

$1K

$2K

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

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average weekly pay for independent contractor oil rig in Houston, TX is $1,040.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $688.46 and $1,157.69 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you make 200k in the oil field?

An independent contractor working on an oil rig can potentially earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with experience, specialized skills, and long-term projects. High-paying roles often require certifications, such as H2S or safety training, and involve working long shifts in challenging environments. Earnings vary based on location, job type, and level of expertise.

What is the highest paying oil rig job?

The highest paying oil rig jobs are typically specialized roles such as drilling engineers, toolpushers, and offshore installation managers, with salaries often exceeding $150,000 annually. These positions require extensive experience, technical skills, and certifications like BOSIET or HUET for safety, and often involve long shifts and offshore work environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Independent Contractor Oil Rig position, and why are they important?

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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

An independent contractor on an oil rig can potentially earn $4,000 or more per week through high-risk, high-reward roles such as drilling supervisor, specialized technician, or safety inspector, often requiring extensive experience and certifications. These positions typically involve long shifts, physically demanding work, and working in remote offshore environments. Earnings depend on experience, skill level, and the specific contract terms.

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 job?

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.

Are there independent contractors on oil rigs?

Yes, independent contractors often work on oil rigs, performing specialized tasks such as drilling, maintenance, or safety inspections. They typically operate under contract, possess relevant certifications, and work in a high-risk environment requiring safety training and equipment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Oil Rig jobs in Houston, TX? The most popular types of Oil Rig jobs in Houston, TX are:
What are popular job titles related to Independent Contractor Oil Rig jobs in Houston, TX? For Independent Contractor Oil Rig jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Oil Rig jobs in Houston, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Oil Rig jobs in Houston, TX are:
What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Independent Contractor Oil Rig jobs? Cities near Houston, TX with the most Independent Contractor Oil Rig job openings:
Independent Contractor Oil Rig jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Oil Rig job openings in Houston, TX as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 4% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,095 per year, or $26 per hour.

Rig Welder - Primoris Energy Services

Primoris Energy Services Corp

Texas City, TX

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Primoris Services rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

31st of 80 rated construction

Job description

Primoris Energy Services is seeking an experienced Rig Welder for a project in Galveston, TX. This is an excellent opportunity to join our Mechanical division and showcase your welding skills. If you are a dedicated and skilled Rig Welder looking for a long-term project, we want to hear from you. Only qualified candidates will be contacted for further consideration. Please note, immediate availability is preferred. Thank you for your interest in joining our team. We look forward to reviewing your application. (Must be able to pass welding procedure using 6010 root/hot and 7018 fill/cap. The entire project is 100% VT and PAUT)Perdiem & Rig pay is offered once all requirements have been met.

Responsibilities:

  • Must be able to observe and recognize problems during the welding process and adjust speed, voltage, amperage, or feed of the rd. accordingly.
  • Must be able to read and interpret prints and plans.
  • Minimum of 3 years’ experience required.
  • Perform code (ASME, AWS r API) compliant welds using GMAW, SMAW, GTAW & FCAW processes.
  • Properly use fabrication hand tools. (Grinders, drills, air tells, etc.).
  • Rig, hist/lift & move materials.
  • Maintain a safe and clean work environment.
  • Required to adhere to tall safety rules and regulations.

Requirements:

  • Must be able to weld qualification test coupon
  • Ability to take detailed instruction.
  • Willing to be challenged to improve welding skills to meet high-quality standards.
  • Must be able to read & understand weld symbols, weld procedures, mechanical and structural drawings.
  • Knowledge of OSHA guidelines and safe work practices.
  • Must be able to use by/fuel & Plasma hand cutting torch.
  • Daily housekeeping of work area.
  • Flexible working schedule to support project needs
  • Candidate will need their own truck, welding machine, leads, jackstands, torch and hoses, grinder, and misc. small tools
  • Candidate will provide their own diesel/fuel
  • Uses Stick, MiG, Tig, and Flux Core welding techniques of weld various components in flat, vertical, or overhead positions.

BENEFITS:

  • Competitive compensation paid weekly
  • Best-in-class; Medical, Dental, Vision, and LTD/STD
  • 401(k) with company match, vested day-one
  • Pet Coverage "For our Furry Friends"
  • Legal Assistance Coverage
  • Award winning safety programs

    Company Overview

    Primoris was formed in 2004 as the parent company and is traded on the NYSE under the symbol PRIM. We provide a wide range of construction, maintenance, and engineering services for power generation, oil and gas, chemical, pipeline, utilities and distribution, and civil infrastructure clients. Primoris is ranked in the top 1% of the prestigious Top 600 Specialty Contractors List by Engineering News-Record (ENR), having built projects throughout the U.S. and Canada. For additional information, please visit www.prim.com.

    Primoris Energy Services is a major direct-hire contractor in the U.S. delivering self-performed turnkey industrial construction and EPC services. We offer these services to our clients within the refining, gas processing, chemical/petrochemical, hydrogen, power generation, mining, pulp and paper industries from the first groundbreaking activity all the way through commissioning and start-up of the project. Primoris forms a partnership with our customers and major stakeholders from early-stage engineering through construction completion and commercial operation, safely, on-time, and within budget.

    Agency Statement

    We are not accepting resumes from Third Party Recruiting Firms for this position. If you are an Agency or Search firm representative, contact the Primoris Talent Acquisition Manager directly for consideration. Primoris or its subsidiaries will not be responsible for any fees arising from the use of resumes and online response forms through this source. In addition, Primoris or its subsidiaries will not be responsible for any fees on unsolicited resumes that are submitted to any member of the Staffing or Operations team. Primoris has established an approved vendor program for this service and will only consider accepting submissions from those approved firms. For consideration in becoming an approved vendor, contact HR.

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