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Independent Contractor Oil Rig Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Be aware of Simultaneous Operations and able to coordinate vendor and contractor groups on location ... ABOUT THE COMPANY Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions ...

Be aware of Simultaneous Operations and able to coordinate vendor and contractor groups on location ... ABOUT THE COMPANY Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions ...

Be aware of Simultaneous Operations and able to coordinate vendor and contractor groups on location ... ABOUT THE COMPANY Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions ...

Be aware of Simultaneous Operations and able to coordinate vendor and contractor groups on location ... ABOUT THE COMPANY Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions ...

This role requires thorough knowledge of rig equipment, safety protocols, and oilfield operations ... Must be able to use discretion and independent judgment as needed. * Must be able to speak clearly ...

This role requires thorough knowledge of rig equipment, safety protocols, and oilfield operations ... Must be able to use discretion and independent judgment as needed. * Must be able to speak clearly ...

This role requires thorough knowledge of rig equipment, safety protocols, and oilfield operations ... Must be able to use discretion and independent judgment as needed. * Must be able to speak clearly ...

Be aware of Simultaneous Operations and able to coordinate vendor and contractor groups on location ... ABOUT THE COMPANY Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions ...

Be Seen First

... to work independently - Strong communication and negotiation skills REQUIRED - Drug testing ... contractors, service companies, or equipment providers - Familiarity with field operations and rig ...

... the contracted services, drives the Rig to the work site, operates the rig and equipment and ... Performing maintenance services and repairs on oil and gas wells as part of a three-to-five-person ...

... the contracted services, drives the Rig to the work site, operates the rig and equipment and ... Performing maintenance services and repairs on oil and gas wells as part of a three-to-five-person ...

... the contracted services, drives the Rig to the work site, operates the rig and equipment and ... Performing maintenance services and repairs on oil and gas wells as part of a three-to-five-person ...

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Independent Contractor Oil Rig information

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$394

$1.1K

$2.1K

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

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average weekly pay for independent contractor oil rig in the United States is $1,089.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $721.15 and $1,211.54 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do roughnecks make 180k a year?

Roughnecks, or oil rig workers, typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, with experienced workers in high-paying regions sometimes reaching around $150,000. Earning $180,000 a year is uncommon and usually requires extensive experience, specialized skills, or working in high-demand environments with overtime and hazard pay.

How much do oil rig contractors make?

Oil rig contractors typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Contractors often work on a per-project basis or hourly, with some earning higher rates for specialized skills or certifications such as HAZWOPER or safety training.

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.

Do independent contractors work on oil rigs?

Yes, independent contractors often work on oil rigs, performing specialized tasks such as drilling, maintenance, and safety inspections. They typically need relevant certifications, technical skills, and knowledge of safety protocols to operate in this environment.

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.

More about Independent Contractor Oil Rig jobs
What cities are hiring for Independent Contractor Oil Rig jobs? Cities with the most Independent Contractor Oil Rig job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Oil Rig jobs? The most popular types of Oil Rig jobs are:
What states have the most Independent Contractor Oil Rig jobs? States with the most job openings for Independent Contractor Oil Rig jobs include:
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Oil Rig job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,645 per year, or $27.2 per hour.
Operator - Rig

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Ranger Energy Services rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

172nd of 218 rated repair and maintenance companies


Job description

SUMMARY

The primary duty of the Rig Operator is to work the controls and equipment on a rig.  The Rig Operator supervises crewmembers while rig operations are in process, maintains productivity standards, and works closely with customer representatives to provide safe, reliable, and quality service.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

  • Promote RES concept of Stop Work Accountability
  • Promote RES safety policies and procedures
  • Perform Meet and Greet at location sites
  • Be aware of Simultaneous Operations and able to coordinate vendor and contractor groups on location as needed
  • Operate the rig safely during rig up/down and pulling operations
  • Operate  the crown and ground saver
  • Check brake systems and confirm functionality
  • Pull and lay down rods, tubing, casing, and other equipment as needed
  • Understands job steps and arranges rods and  tubing in derrick correctly
  • Understand the rig’s hydraulic, pneumatic and electrical systems
  • Perform all required equipment inspections-workover rig, fall arrest system, derrick, hoisting and mud pump
  • Able to instruct floor and derrick hands in use of all safety equipment
  • Able to instruct the floor and derrick hand in use of all rig and pumping equipment
  • Operate the power swivel
  • Perform Blowout Preventer (BOP) inspection, testing and installation as needed
  • Assist HSE, DOT, and all other applicable departments with document completion, collection, and management
  • Complete field tickets in a timely manner and turn in to appropriate department for processing
  • Troubleshoot maintenance issues; to include performing worn equipment recognition checks and turning in maintenance requests for repair or replacement of equipment as needed
  • Accurately perform torque calculations and specs
  • Perform JSA/DWP and tail gate meetings as scheduled
  • Perform pipe tallying, rigging up and down, nipple up and down of BOP units, and pipe handling
  • Responsible for keeping work site, equipment, and tools clean and in good working order
  • Perform day to day lubrication and minor adjustments of equipment
  • Perform use of Hazard ID programs and means of documenting hazards
  • Perform daily inspection and maintenance of equipment
  • Perform and oversee energy isolation procedures
  • Train and mentors crew members on day to day operations
  • Responsible to stop work if conditions are unsafe and report concerns immediately
  • Report all incidents as per the standard operating procedures
  • Other duties as assigned

REQUIRED EDUCATION, QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

  • High school diploma or equivalent, preferred
  • 5  years’ of experience working on a well servicing rig preferred
  • 2 years’ of experience as a relief operator preferred
  • Must be able to successfully perform the duties of a Floor Hand III and derrick hand
  • Must be familiar with pump and tank operations
  • Must have a valid state issued driver’s license, CDL, or the ability to obtain one
  • Ability to perform manual labor required to operate well servicing equipment
  • Competent communication, people, and leadership skills
  • Must be able to multi-task in a fast-paced environment
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule 

COMPUTER

  • Basic knowledge of MS Office preferred
  • Able to use the company’s HSE Management Platforms

PRE-EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS

Must complete and pass all required pre-employment drug screening, Urine, Alcohol, Hair Follicle and Physical, if applicable. 

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)