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Lead Tong Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead Tong information

See salary details

$10

$25

$72

How much do lead tong jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 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
Infographic showing various Lead Tong job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,524 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

General Manager - Metal Finishing

Pioneer Metal Finishing Jobs

South Bend, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Tong quan ve cong ty
  • Pioneer Metal Finishing is the leading surface engineering company in North America. For over 75 years, we've delivered consistent, quality metal finishing solutions for mission-critical applications. Our advanced surface modification technologies and scalable execution improve the performance of mission-critical products and enhance brand value for companies in the healthcare, aerospace, automotive, and industrial markets. We encourage you to learn more about opportunities with Pioneer Metal Finishing and join our team today!
Tong quan ve cong viec

Position Summary

We are seeking a dynamic and results-driven General Manager to lead our division in achieving sustained growth, increased profitability, and an exceptional customer experience. This role serves as a key steward of our company's values and culture, driving operational excellence while building a highly engaged and high-performing team. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker and hands-on leader who can align people, processes, and performance to deliver measurable results. This individual will play a critical role in shaping the division's future through strong leadership, customer partnership, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Planning

  • Partner with senior leadership to develop and execute divisional strategy, including the Annual Business Plan and budget
  • Align organizational structure and resources to support both short-term performance and long-term growth
  • Drive vision, set clear goals, and ensure accountability across all levels of the division

Operational Excellence & Results Delivery

  • Lead all operational functions through managers and supervisors to ensure peak performance
  • Monitor and drive key performance indicators (KPIs), including safety, quality, delivery, cost, and compliance
  • Ensure customer requirements are consistently met or exceeded, resolving issues promptly and effectively
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and well-maintained facility in compliance with all environmental and safety standards

Customer & Growth Focus

  • Build and maintain strong relationships with key and strategic customers
  • Identify and drive opportunities for organic growth within the division and broader organization
  • Act as a visible leader with customers, reinforcing trust and long-term partnership

People Leadership & Development

  • Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing leadership team and workforce
  • Foster a culture of accountability, engagement, and continuous learning
  • Develop talent pipelines and succession plans to support future growth
  • Promote a collaborative, team-oriented environment aligned with company values

Continuous Improvement & Best Practices

  • Champion Lean, continuous improvement, and operational best practices
  • Partner with cross-functional teams to implement process improvements and efficiency initiatives
  • Ensure adherence to quality systems and operational standards

Financial & Business Performance

  • Manage divisional financial performance, including full P&L accountability
  • Ensure execution of plans within budget and achievement of annual performance targets
  • Balance operational efficiency with strategic investment for long-term success

Qualifications- 7-10+ years of progressive leadership experience in a manufacturing or labor-intensive production environment- Proven success in plant or operations management roles- Strong financial acumen, including P&L responsibility- Demonstrated ability to lead teams, drive accountability, and deliver results- Experience with Lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and quality systems- Skilled at operating in fast-paced, evolving environments- Track record of developing leaders and building high-performing teams- Hands-on, collaborative leadership style with a strong executive presence- Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Supply Chain, or related field preferred- Lean Six Sigma Green Belt (or similar) certification preferred- Experience in metal finishing is a plus

Tom tat loi ich

We offer the following benefits to All Employees immediately upon hire:

  • Next-Day Pay: Don't wait for payday; access your daily pay the next day!
  • Quarterly Incentive Program: Paid based on hours worked and business results
  • Paid company holidays
  • Shift Differentials for 2nd and 3rd shift
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Wellness Program
  • On-the-Job Training and Advancement Opportunities
  • Employee Recognition and Rewards Program
  • Fun Recognition Events and more!

Full-Time Employees (30 + hours per week) may participate in the following benefits:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance (Eligibility begins on the 1stof the month, following your start date)
  • Paid Time Off: 80 Hours earned in your first year
  • Access to Garner Incentive or a Health Savings Account up to $3,000 annually
  • 401(k) plan with a company match of up to 2% of bi-weekly contribution
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Company-paid Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment insurance
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Additional benefits for employee purchase: life insurance, critical illness, voluntary accident, and accidental death & dismemberment
  • LiveHealth Online, virtual doctor visits
Employment Type: FULL_TIME