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Independent Contractor Oil Rig Jobs in Houston, TX

NTG Staffing

Pad Crew

Houston, TX · On-site

$20/hr

New Tech Global Staffing is currently seeking Pad Crew Workers for an oil & gas client located in ... Summary The Pad Crew Worker is responsible for supporting the rig-up and rig-down process by ...

NABORS

AUTOMATION ENGINEER II

Houston, TX

Minimum three years of oil and gas industry experience , with working knowledge of drilling rig ... Experience working for a drilling contractor or organization directly involved in drilling ...

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Independent Contractor Oil Rig information

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

As of Aug 17, 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.

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 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.

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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote 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 21 days ago

Primoris Services rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th 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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