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Lead Tong Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Avnet

Program Manager

Chandler, AZ · On-site

The Program Manager will plan, lead, monitor, and coordinate activities related to technology and ... Founded in 2019, the company is headquartered in Kwun Tong, HKG, with a team of 10001+ employees.

FutureSight

Co-Founder & CEO - AI WealthTech

Austin, TX · On-site +1

The Opportunity FutureSight is seeking a Co-Founder & CEO to lead Weli AI, a B2B WealthTech venture ... Tong (0-to-1 builder, acquired by SAP and Stripe) bring a rare combination of operator exits ...

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Lead Tong information

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$10

$25

$72

How much do lead tong jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead tong in the United States is $25.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lead Tong, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Tong in the oil and gas industry, you need strong mechanical aptitude, knowledge of drilling operations, and experience with drill pipe handling, often acquired through on-the-job training and safety certifications. Familiarity with hydraulic tong equipment, torque monitoring systems, and adherence to safety protocols is essential. Leadership, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for overseeing crew operations and maintaining safety standards. These skills are vital to ensure efficient, safe drilling operations and to minimize risks on the rig site.

What are Lead Tongs?

Lead tongs are specialized tools used primarily in the oil and gas industry for handling and making up or breaking out drill pipe, casing, or tubing on a drilling rig. They are large, heavy-duty wrenches designed to grip and turn sections of pipe, ensuring they are securely tightened or loosened during drilling operations. Operators use lead tongs to apply the necessary torque for these tasks, which is vitally important for safety and efficiency on the rig. Proper use of lead tongs helps prevent equipment damage and ensures a secure connection between pipe sections.

What are some common challenges faced by Lead Tong operators in oil drilling operations?

Lead Tong operators often encounter challenges such as working under high-pressure conditions and ensuring the safety of both themselves and their team during pipe handling operations. The role requires strong coordination and communication with other crew members, especially during rig-up and rig-down procedures. Additionally, Lead Tongs must remain vigilant for equipment malfunctions and be prepared to troubleshoot issues quickly to minimize downtime and maintain efficiency. Adhering to strict safety protocols is essential to prevent accidents and ensure smooth drilling operations.

What is the difference between Lead Tong vs Driller?

AspectLead TongDriller
Required CredentialsTechnical training, safety certificationsTechnical training, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentOil & gas rigs, drilling sitesOil & gas rigs, drilling sites
Employer & Industry UsageOil & gas companies, drilling contractorsOil & gas companies, drilling contractors
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Lead Tongs and Drillers both work in oil and gas drilling environments, requiring similar certifications and operating in the same industry. The Lead Tong typically refers to the worker responsible for handling and operating the tongs used to make or break drill pipe connections, while the Driller oversees the entire drilling operation. Both roles are essential for safe and efficient drilling, often searched together by industry professionals.

More about Lead Tong jobs
What job categories do people searching Lead Tong jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Tong jobs are:
Lead Tong jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Tong job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,524 per year, or $25.7 per hour.
POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER - Internal Medicine Cardiology - Tong Lab [Req#: 960068, Position#: 132382]

POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER - Internal Medicine Cardiology - Tong Lab [Req#: 960068, Position#: 132382]

UT Southwestern Medical Center

Dallas, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

UT Southwestern rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

104th of 890 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Description
Postdoctoral Researcher Position: Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiovascular Disease and Metabolic Dysfunction
The Tong Lab in the Division of Cardiology at UT Southwestern Medical Center is recruiting a motivated postdoctoral fellow to investigate how metabolic dysfunction drives cardiovascular disease.
Research Focus:
Our laboratory studies the molecular mechanisms of cardiovascular conditions associated with metabolic dysfunction, with emphasis on cardiac remodeling, arrhythmia, and cardiometabolic disease. The fellow will lead mechanistic and translational projects using complementary experimental and computational approaches.
Training environment:
UT Southwestern offers a highly collaborative biomedical research environment, outstanding core facilities, and a structured postdoctoral training program with competitive benefits and career-development resources.
Learn more
Tong Lab website
Postdoctoral training program
Qualifications
Ideal candidate:
• Ph.D., M.D., or M.D./Ph.D. in a relevant field.
• Strong record of research productivity, including peer-reviewed publications.
• Experience in cardiovascular research, arrhythmia biology, molecular biology, animal models, or bioinformatics is preferred.
• Curiosity, independence, and enthusiasm for collaborative, rigorous science.
Application Instructions
HOW TO APPLY:
Send the following materials:
• Curriculum vitae
• Statement of research interests
• Names and contact information for three references
Contact:
Dan Tong, MD, PhD
Assistant Professor
Division of Cardiology
Department of Medicine
UT Southwestern Medical Center
Dan.tong@utsouthwestern.edu

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