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Mwd Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Scientific Drilling

MWD Operator - Midland, TX

Odessa, TX

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

Scientific Drilling is looking for a MWD Operator to work in Midland, TX . The MWD Operator will provide quality service related to job preparation and planning. Assist the Senior and Lead MWD ...

Patterson-UTI

Tech 1 Quality MSD

Conroe, TX · On-site

$16 - $21.75/hr

The MWD Shop Technician will work under the direction of the Shop Manager. Detailed Description ... Basis skills at operating and interpreting lab equipment such as oscilloscopes, voltmeters ...

Patterson-UTI

Tech 1 Quality MSD

Conroe, TX · On-site

$16 - $21.75/hr

The MWD Shop Technician will work under the direction of the Shop Manager. Detailed Description ... Basis skills at operating and interpreting lab equipment such as oscilloscopes, voltmeters ...

TGNR HOLDCO LLC

Sr. Staff Geologist

Houston, TX · On-site

... operated and non-operated opportunities. Responsibilities Perform integrated geological ... Integrate drilling events, mud log shows, gas data, and LWD/MWD responses to update interpretations ...

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All JobsMwd Operator JobsMwd Operator Jobs in Texas

Mwd Operator information

See Texas salary details

$12

$22

$35

How much do mwd operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for mwd operator in Texas is $22.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.69 and $25.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 is an MWD operator?

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.

What are the typical challenges faced by an MWD operator 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 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 are popular job titles related to Mwd Operator jobs in Texas? For Mwd Operator jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mwd Operator jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Mwd Operator jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Mwd Operator jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Mwd Operator job openings:
Mwd Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mwd Operator job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,239 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

MWD Operator - Midland, TX

Scientific Drilling Inc.

Odessa, TX • On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Scientific Drilling International rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

471st of 487 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Scientific Drilling is looking for a MWD Operator to work in Midland, TX. The MWD Operator will provide quality service related to job preparation and planning. Assist the Senior and Lead MWD Operators in supervision, training, and development of the MWD Operator Trainees. Scientific Drilling is an independent directional drilling and wellbore navigation, surveying and logging Service Company serving customers worldwide. Our industry leading navigation systems provide definitive wellbore placement information, enabling safer and more efficient placement of tightly spaced wellbores throughout the world. We are motivated by crafting innovative and elegant solutions to technically challenging problems.
Key Job Functions:
  • Assists and supports Senior and Lead MWD Operators at the well site.
  • Learns through hands on training while focusing on achieving necessary level of proficiency.
  • Assists in the initiation, investigation and close out of non-conformance reports.
  • Assists in the management of inventory and supplies required at the well site.
  • Becomes familiar with the oilfield in general and company specific tools and services.
  • Works under the supervision of other company MWD Operators.
  • Provides pre-job and post-job support to MWD Operators.
  • Able to rig-up and rig-down at the well site.
  • Able to prepare MWD and basic LWD tools.
  • Assists in LWD log generation and delivery.
  • Assists shop technicians in checking and preparing MWD/LWD equipment for the job.
  • Assists in the management of inventory and supplies required at the well site.
  • Assists the Senior and Lead MWD Operators in the preparation of required reports.
  • Participates in post job debriefings.
  • Perform other relevant duties as required.
  • Actively supports Quality Management Systems, requirements, and initiatives.

Key Job Competencies:
  • Learns quickly and adapts to new problems and situations.
  • Pursues every job with drive and determination.
  • Uses logic to solve problems with effective solutions.
  • Is personally committed to continual improvement and customer satisfaction.
  • Listens and is able to communicate effectively with managers and peers, both written and verbally.
  • Able to understand and follow instructions.
  • Presents self with professional appearance and behavior.
  • Ability to multi-task.

Education, Experience, Certification and Training:
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent required.
  • 6 months minimum MWD Operator Trainee experience or equivalent.
  • Bachelor's degree (preferred but not required).

Work Environment, Physical Job Requirements and PPE:
  • Ability to walk, stand, sit, kneel, push, stoop, reach above the shoulder, grasp, pull, bend repeatedly, climb stairs, identify colors, hear with aid, see, write, count, read, speak, analyze, alphabetize, lift, and carry under 45 lbs., perceive depth, and operate a motor vehicle.
  • Conditions include working inside and outside in all types of weather. Working around moving objects, moving vehicles and machines with moving parts. Working around radiant and electrical energy. Working closely with others, working alone, working extended, or irregular hours, and travelling by all possible modes of transportation. Working environment may include but not limited to excessive, intermittent, or constant noise, fumes, smoke, gases, grease, dust, oils and solvents.
  • Equipment (machines, tools, devices) used in performing the essential job function include but not limited to computer and related equipment, calculator, special instrumentation, forklift, pallet jack, hand tools, power tools, air tools, telephone, and automobile. Ability to wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE), including but not limited to, safety glasses, hardhat, reinforced toed shoes, coveralls, gloves & hearing protection.

Limitations and Disclaimer:
This job description describes the general duties and responsibilities, and physical requirements associated with the position; it is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or skills required for the position.
The general duties and responsibilities and physical requirements associated with the position are subject to modification in order to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. Some physical requirements may exclude individuals who pose a threat or risk to the health or safety to themselves or others.
This job description neither states nor implies that the listed general duties and responsibilities and physical requirements associated with the position are the only tasks expected of an employee. An employee is also required to follow any other job-related instructions and perform any other job-related tasks requested by their supervisor and not in violation of any applicable laws, regulations, or rules.
Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills, and abilities. To perform this job successfully, an employee must possess the abilities and aptitudes to perform each duty, responsibility, and physical requirement proficiently.
Continued employment remains on an "at-will" basis.

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