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Offshore Oil Rig Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

... mining, oil and gas, and power generation, and for commercial applications such as pool and spa ... Whether driving locomotives, powering offshore platforms or keeping the lights on after a storm ...

... mining, oil and gas, and power generation, and for commercial applications such as pool and spa ... Whether driving locomotives, powering offshore platforms or keeping the lights on after a storm ...

... mining, oil and gas, and power generation, and for commercial applications such as pool and spa ... Whether driving locomotives, powering offshore platforms or keeping the lights on after a storm ...

Offshore Oil Rig Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$6

$14

$23

How much do offshore oil rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for offshore oil rig operator in Tennessee is $14.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $7.64 and $18.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Offshore Oil Rig Operator vs Drilling Technician?

AspectOffshore Oil Rig OperatorDrilling Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, technical trainingHigh school diploma, technical certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentOn offshore oil rigs, working in harsh, remote conditionsOn drilling sites, often onshore or offshore, focused on drilling operations
Industry UsageCommonly employed on oil rigs for operational tasksInvolved in drilling processes, often working closely with rig operators

Both Offshore Oil Rig Operators and Drilling Technicians work in the oil and gas industry, often on offshore platforms. While they share similar certifications and work environments, Offshore Oil Rig Operators focus on overall rig operations, whereas Drilling Technicians specialize in drilling processes. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right role for their skills and career goals.

Is it hard to get hired on an offshore oil rig?

Getting hired as an offshore oil rig operator can be competitive and requires relevant experience, certifications such as H2S and safety training, and physical fitness. Employers often seek candidates with technical skills, ability to work long shifts in challenging environments, and a willingness to undergo rigorous training and background checks.

Can you make 200k in the oil field?

Offshore oil rig operators can potentially earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with experience, overtime, and specialized skills. High-paying roles often require certifications, physical endurance, and working in remote environments with long shifts.

How can I get a job on an offshore oil rig?

To become an offshore oil rig operator, you typically need relevant technical training, such as certifications in safety and equipment operation, and experience in the oil and gas industry. Applying through staffing agencies or directly to oil companies, and being prepared for physically demanding work and shift schedules, are common steps in the hiring process.

How much money do oil rig operators make?

Oil rig operators typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, with experienced workers and those in supervisory roles earning higher salaries. Compensation often includes additional benefits such as overtime pay, hazard pay, and per diem allowances due to the demanding offshore environment.
What are popular job titles related to Offshore Oil Rig Operator jobs in Tennessee? For Offshore Oil Rig Operator jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Offshore Oil Rig Operator jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Offshore Oil Rig Operator job openings:

VPI Operator- 3rd Shift

Nidec Corporation

Lexington, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Nidec rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

304th of 487 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

We begin with dreams. Dreams drive our motivation. Dreams are our future. The world's dreams, people's dreams, our dreams. Our passion creates ideas that make dreams come alive. Technology and products that were only dreams become reality.
All for dreams. Dreams challenge and the Nidec-Group will continue to meet the challenge. For the world's and people's tomorrows; the world's first, the world's best technologies and products; we will continue our part in creating a better society.
Job Summary
Nidec is the world's No.1 comprehensive motor manufacturer handling "everything that spins and moves", miniature to gigantic. Nidec is a global enterprise comprised of over 300 subsidiaries/affiliates. We are a leading manufacturer of commercial motors, industrial motors, appliance motors, and controls. Our product line features a full line of high efficiency motors for industrial applications in water treatment, mining, oil and gas, and power generation, and for commercial applications such as pool and spa, condensers, cooling towers and large refrigeration units.
From keeping us comfortable in our homes to pumping clean water to making our cars more safe, electric motors are an indispensable part of our daily lives. At Nidec, our employees are on the forefront of developing new motor technologies. As we move deeper into the age of robotics, the impact of motors will only increase.
With over 140,000 employees stationed worldwide, Nidec continues to be a unique organization, and each location maintains its individual personality.
Whether driving locomotives, powering offshore platforms or keeping the lights on after a storm, Nidec electric power generation products impact the world on a daily basis. With over 1,000 employees in the Americas, we are moving forward with technology to solve our customers' electrical power needs for both prime and backup generation needs as the industry's leading manufacturer.
Job Description
Performs general manual labor tasks including loading, unloading, lifting, and moving materials. Assists a variety of functions with manual labor tasks as needed. May require a high school diploma or its equivalent with 0-2 years of experience in the field or in a related area. Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. Works under immediate supervision. Primary job functions do not typically require exercising independent judgment. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager.
Duties & Responsibilities Information:
  • Secures leads on unit to protect from varnish
  • Uses hoists and power lift trucks to move units
  • Uses sanding equipment to remove excess varnish
  • Makes general decisions as to setup sequences and process monitoring
  • Exercises good housekeeping in work area
  • Observes good safety practices in performance of job
  • Performs daily/weekly TPM tasks and completes checksheets
  • Performs other job duties as assigned by Supervisor or Team Leader

Necessary Skills:
  • Read and write, follow written process instructions, record information as required.

Additional Job Details
High School Diploma / GED Required May be Required
Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action at Nidec
Nidec is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Affirmative Action Employer encouraging diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to their age, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, genetic information, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. For more information regarding your (EEO) rights as an applicant, please visit the following website: http://www1.eeoc.gov/employers/upload/eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf
Work Shift Schedule
Third Shift (United States of America)
No Soliciting
Nidec will not accept unsolicited resumes from individual recruiters or third party recruiting agencies in response to Nidec job postings. No fee will be paid to third parties who submit unsolicited candidates directly to our hiring managers. Pre-approval from the Nidec Talent Acquisition team is required before any external candidate can be submitted and such candidate must be submitted to the Nidec Talent Acquisition team.

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