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Mwd Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Mwd Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$24

$37

How much do mwd operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for mwd operator in California is $24.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $27.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is MWD a good job?

Mud Logging and Drilling (MWD) operators play a key role in oil and gas drilling by providing real-time data on well conditions using specialized tools. The job often involves shift work, physical activity, and technical skills, with opportunities for advancement and competitive pay in the energy industry.

What is the difference between Mwd Operator vs Drilling Engineer?

AspectMwd OperatorDrilling Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires certifications in MWD technology, basic drilling knowledgeRequires engineering degree, advanced technical certifications
Work EnvironmentOn-site at drilling rigs, operating MWD toolsOffice-based, overseeing drilling operations and planning
Industry UsageCommonly used in oil and gas drilling projectsInvolved in designing and optimizing drilling programs

The Mwd Operator focuses on operating measurement while drilling tools on-site, ensuring real-time data collection. The Drilling Engineer designs and manages drilling plans, often working in an office setting. While both roles are essential in drilling operations, they differ in responsibilities, credentials, and work environment.

What are MWD Operators?

MWD Operators, or Measurement While Drilling Operators, are professionals in the oil and gas industry responsible for monitoring and transmitting real-time data from downhole sensors during the drilling process. They operate specialized tools and equipment that measure parameters such as direction, inclination, and geological information while drilling is underway. This data helps drilling engineers make informed decisions to optimize well placement, improve safety, and increase efficiency. MWD Operators often work on-site at drilling locations, collaborating closely with drilling teams to ensure accurate data collection and reporting.

How much do MWD hands make?

Mud Logging While Drilling (MWD) operators typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the drilling operations. They often work in offshore or remote environments and may receive additional compensation for overtime, travel, and certifications such as well control or safety training.

What are the typical challenges faced by MWD Operators during drilling operations and how are they addressed?

MWD Operators often encounter challenges such as equipment malfunctions, signal interference, and real-time data transmission issues while monitoring drilling parameters. To address these, operators rely on strong troubleshooting skills, regular equipment calibration, and close coordination with drilling engineers and the rig crew. Working in remote or high-pressure environments also requires adaptability and clear communication to ensure safe and efficient drilling operations. Continuous training and adherence to safety protocols help MWD Operators effectively manage these challenges.

What is the highest paid oil rig job?

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

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

For a Mwd Operator, high-paying roles in the oil and gas industry can reach $4,000 or more per week, especially with experience and specialized skills in directional drilling, well control, or hydraulic fracturing. These positions often require technical training, certifications, and working in remote or demanding environments, but they typically do not require a college degree.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an MWD Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an MWD Operator, you need a background in engineering or geoscience, strong mathematical abilities, and relevant field experience, often supported by technical training or certification in Measurement While Drilling. Familiarity with MWD/LWD tools, data acquisition systems, and downhole telemetry technology is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work well under pressure and in remote environments help an operator excel. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring accurate wellbore placement, optimizing drilling performance, and maintaining safety standards in challenging oilfield operations.
What job categories do people searching Mwd Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Mwd Operator jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Mwd Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Temporary. Highlights an 60% In-person, 20% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,040 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

MWD Water Reuse Co-Op Intern - MWD - #721853572

Cal Poly Pomona Foundation, Inc.

Pomona, CA

$15 - $19.50/hr

Other

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Cal Poly Pomona Enterprises Employment Services

ANNOUNCEMENT OF POSITION VACANCY

JOB POSITION: Part-Time, MWD Water Reuse Co-Op Intern

DEPARTMENT: Cooperative Education

DATE AVAILABLE: August 2026

WORK LOCATION: PWSC, inside the Los Angeles County Sanitation District (LACSD)'s A.K. Warren Water Resource Facility in Carson.

ABOUT US: As the largest employer of students on the Cal Poly Pomona campus, the Foundation offers valuable work experience and hands-on training to approximately 1,500 Cal Poly Pomona students each year. The Foundation offers positions in various fields; whether it is in the area of technology, science, retail, culinary arts, hospitality1500 management, leadership or research grants, these student employees participate in Cal Poly Pomona's learn-by-doing philosophy and acquire practical skills in their designated field of study.

The Foundation also contributes operating support to nearly 1,100 Foundation and scholarship programs every year, including Bronco Athletics and the Norman J. Priest Scholarship. In addition, the Foundation administers grants and contracts, contributes to campus security, and supports several university publications. The Foundation contributes over $1 million annually to Cal Poly Pomona.

SUMMARY: The Metropolitan Water District's Water Quality Section is seeking one (1) Co-Op intern to join the Water Reuse and Process Development (WRPD) Team. The WRPD Team is responsible for operating and maintaining the demonstration plant for Pure Water Southern California (PWSC). This position requires a commitment of approximately 8-10 hours per week, Monday through Friday, between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Work should preferably be scheduled in blocks of at least four hours. During the summer months, work hours may be extended to up to 20 hours per week.

SOME OF THE THINGS THAT YOU WILL GET TO DO (this is just a small sampling of work variety):

Under the direction of Water Quality (WQ) Technicians, WQ Specialists, and process engineers, you may perform the following:

  • Provide both field and laboratory support for the Pure Water Southern California Demonstration Plant.
  • Interpret process flow diagrams (PFD's) and apply this knowledge by reviewing the treatment process design and verifying and documenting treatment processes.
  • Assist with sample collection and preparation, water quality testing, data entry, general laboratory cleanliness, and organization.
  • Organizing and plotting datasets
  • Provide technical report writing, editing, and literature research.
  • Experience handling chemicals in the laboratory
  • Knowledge of laboratory safety practices
  • Experience following standard operating procedures
  • Experience using computer software in a Microsoft Windows environment
  • Familiarity with chemical/physical instrumentation and laboratory measurement techniques
  • Knowledge of general laboratory calculations
  • Self-motivated team player able to work effectively with minimal supervision

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Currently enrolled in an accredited four-year degree program in Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry or Environmental Engineering.
    • A minimum overall GPA of 2.5 in relevant coursework (i.e. chemistry, mathematics, physics, etc.) is required.
  • Sophomore, junior, or early senior status with approximately two years remaining before graduation is required.

DRIVING REQUIREMENTS: Any students driving their personal vehicles to Metropolitan work and project locations, including Union Station, must provide proof to the Foundation of a valid California Driver's License and personal automobile Liability Insurance as required by the State of California Department of Motor Vehicles prior to beginning service with Metropolitan, if selected.

BACKGROUND CHECK POLICY: Cal Poly Pomona Enterprises is committed to protecting the health, well-being, and safety of its campus community and assets. In furtherance of these goals, Cal Poly Pomona Enterprises will make a conditional offer of employment to final job candidates, pending the satisfactory completion of a background check (including a criminal records check).

The conditional offer of employment may be rescinded if the background check reveals disqualifying information, and/or it is discovered that the candidate knowingly withheld or falsified information.

In determining the suitability of the candidate for the position, Cal Poly Pomona Enterprises will give an individualized assessment to any information regarding the criminal conviction history that the applicant submits for consideration such as the nature, gravity and recency of the conviction, the candidate's conduct, performance or rehabilitation efforts since the conviction and the nature of the job applied for.

CSU along with Cal Poly Pomona Foundation strongly recommend faculty, staff, and students who are accessing campus facilities to be immunized against COVID-19 or declare an exemption from doing so. The systemwide policy can be found at COVID-19 Vaccination Interim Policy and any questions may be sent to fdnhr@cpp.edu.

Cal Poly Pomona Foundation, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Cal Poly Pomona Foundation, Inc. may provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodation with the employer.