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Oil Drilling Rig Jobs (NOW HIRING)

High School Diploma/GED * 1+ years Experience Working on a drilling rig or in the oilfield rigging up and rigging down Preferred: * Strong work ethic * Mechanical aptitude * Familiar with hand/power ...

High School Diploma/GED * 1+ years Experience Working on a drilling rig or in the oilfield rigging up and rigging down Preferred: * Strong work ethic * Mechanical aptitude * Familiar with hand/power ...

This position requires the coordination of the crews that perform different tasks on the oil rig ... Document daily activities and drilling progress in Tour Book. Supervise crew during rig up/out ...

This position requires the coordination of the crews that perform different tasks on the oil rig ... Document daily activities and drilling progress in Tour Book.Supervise crew during rig up/out ...

Driller

Midland, TX ยท On-site

$39.50/hr

... oil company, making sure that the work of the crew follows all company policies as well as ... Document daily activities and drilling progress in Tour Book. Supervise crew during rig up/out ...

Rig Manager

Midland, TX ยท On-site

Communicating with the oil company representative (clients). Ensure compliance to policies and programs for all individuals reporting to the drilling site. Ensuring maintenance of the rig equipment ...

Oil and gas industry/drilling rig experience preferred. * Oil and gas industry training a plus, ie. Safeland, Fall Protection training, OSHA, Equipment Operator cards, H2S awareness, First Aid/CPR ...

Driller

Weston, WV

$21.50 - $29.25/hr

... the rig, rigging up and rigging down. Education: * High School Diploma or GED, preferred Experience : * 5+ years of experience in an oil/gas drilling experience * Previous experience working as a ...

Driller

Weston, WV ยท On-site

$21.50 - $29.25/hr

... the rig, rigging up and rigging down. Education: * High School Diploma or GED, preferred Experience : * 5+ years of experience in an oil/gas drilling experience * Previous experience working as a ...

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Oil Drilling Rig information

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$14

$24

$35

How much do oil drilling rig jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for oil drilling rig in the United States is $24.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $34.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Oil Drilling Rig Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Oil Drilling Rig Worker, you need strong mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with specialized training or certifications such as Well Control or H2S safety. Proficiency with drilling machinery, safety monitoring systems, and rig-specific software is commonly required. Effective teamwork, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities are vital soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining operational efficiency, ensuring safety, and minimizing downtime in a hazardous and demanding environment.

What are some common challenges faced by workers on an oil drilling rig, and how are they typically addressed?

Workers on oil drilling rigs often face challenges such as harsh weather conditions, long shifts, and the need for strict adherence to safety protocols. The work environment is physically demanding and requires constant vigilance to prevent accidents. Teamwork and clear communication are essential, as daily tasks involve coordination with drillers, engineers, and safety personnel. Most companies provide extensive safety training and implement rotation schedules to help manage fatigue and maintain a high level of safety on site.

What are oil drilling rigs?

Oil drilling rigs are large, complex structures used to drill wells into the earth's subsurface to extract oil and natural gas. These rigs can be located on land (onshore) or at sea (offshore), and they include machinery and equipment for drilling, lifting, and processing the extracted resources. Oil drilling rigs are staffed by specialized crews who ensure safe and efficient operations, often working in challenging and hazardous environments. The design and technology of rigs vary depending on the location and depth of the oil reservoir.

What is the difference between Oil Drilling Rig vs Oil Rig Worker?

AspectOil Drilling RigOil Rig Worker
RoleEquipment and structure used to drill oil wellsPersonnel operating and maintaining the rig
CredentialsEngineering, technical certifications for rig operationTechnical training, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentStationary or mobile offshore/onshore sitesOn-site at drilling locations
Industry UsageComponent of oil extraction processHands-on workers on the rig

While the oil drilling rig is the structure used for drilling, the oil rig worker is the personnel operating and maintaining that equipment. Both roles are essential in the oil extraction industry, with the rig serving as the workspace and the worker as the skilled operator ensuring safe and efficient drilling operations.

More about Oil Drilling Rig jobs
What cities are hiring for Oil Drilling Rig jobs? Cities with the most Oil Drilling Rig job openings:
What states have the most Oil Drilling Rig jobs? States with the most job openings for Oil Drilling Rig jobs include:

Drilling Rig Operator

Lighthouse Drilling, LLC

El Dorado, KS โ€ข On-site

$26 - $29/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Position Overview:

Operators lead a three-to-five-person rig crew while safely operating drilling rig components. This is a safety-sensitive position. They are responsible for rig up and down activities, general equipment repairs, and maintenance of rig components. Operators conduct safety meetings and assign activities on the rig floor or derrick. They supervise the mud-mixing duties and other duties performed by floor hands & derrick hands. Operators are responsible for their crew performing these duties safely and efficiently.
This is a safety-sensitive position.
Major Duties:
  • Ensures all crew members are at the rig and prepared to work at the scheduled time.
  • Performs routine operating functions and troubleshooting on all equipment with direction from operation personnel and the client company representative.
  • Operates the draw works and assesses downhole conditions and well pressures.
  • Handles jack stands and instructs crew on securing the guy wires.
  • Provides operating reports (via Pason) to the Field Supervisor-Rigs or Toolpusher.
  • Tested and monitored equipment using correct procedures.
  • Trained and directed the crew on safety and job procedures.
  • Establishes daily maintenance & housekeeping program for the rig.
  • Oversees the setting up, taking down, and transportation of drilling rigs & equipment.
  • May be requested to work outside of regular work schedule to meet customer needs.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Basic Requirements:
  • We expect more out of our drillers than most contractors. We need them to be driven and able to direct crew members to work hard.
  • We also expect our Drillers to lead by example via. their good work ethic.
  • Previous Drilling Experience on a Kelly Drive Rig.
  • A valid Driver's License is required (CDL Preferred but not required).
  • Knowledge of basic mechanical functions.
  • Oilfield industry experience.
  • Must pass pre-employment drug and alcohol screening & background check.
  • Able to work well with & lead a teamย 

Preferred (not required):
  • High School diploma, GED, or equivalent education.
  • Clean Driving Record.
  • CDL.
  • 2+ years of previous drilling rig operations experience (required).

Physical Requirements:
  • Able to lift, move, or carry up to 85 pounds.
  • Able to regularly walk and climb stairs up to 15' high.
  • Able to stay alert and attentive for a 12-hour tour while performing sometimes repetitive tasks.
  • Able to open/close valves requiring upwards of 160 lbs of torque.
  • Able to pull drill slips with another employee and latch/unlatch tongs.
  • Able to listen for unusual noises that signify equipment and machinery problems.

Mental Alertness Requirements:
  • Work in a constant state of alertness and sin a afe manner.
  • Have, display & maintain the ability to perform tasks involving high levels of cognitive function and judgment.
  • Not being mentally or physically impaired from any cause can adversely affect an employeeโ€™s ability to safely and completely perform the duties of the position.
  • Have, display & maintain the ability to cope with sudden changes in surroundings and/or emergencies and/or alarms.
  • Have, display & maintain, and demonstrate a caring, committed, and concerned attitude about personal and crewmember safety.

Typical working conditions and hazards:
  • Work is performed in all weather conditions.
  • Able to perform duties with protective equipment.
  • Potential hazards include working near or with heavy tools and moving machinery.
  • Occasional work will be done on slick surfaces due to weather, drilling mud, or oil/grease.

Not Your Typical Drilling Company:
Founded in 2018, Lighthouse Drilling, LLC is a family-owned and & operated drilling company with a quickly growing reputation in Central Kansas, Northern Oklahoma, and Southern Nebraska. Lighthouse offers a family-friendly, enjoyable work atmosphere and provides advancement opportunities for individuals who are humble and hard-working.
Core Values:

Integrityย  - Safetyย  - Performance

Our motto is "Excellence in Drilling" and we mean it.
For full-time employees, Lighthouse provides:
  • Highly competitive salaries
  • Company Driver (Pickup Truck)ย 
  • Advancement Opportunities
  • Per Diem
  • Health Benefits
  • Dental Benefits
  • Vision Benefits
  • Paid Time Off (starting at 12 months of employment)
  • 100% company-matched IRA program
  • Annual allowance for work clothesย 
  • Annual Reimbursements for Gear / Boots & Overalls
  • Performance-based bonuses & incentives
  • Company Uniforms
  • Paid Holidaysย 

Drug-Free Environment - Consistent Work Schedule - Lots of Overtime Available - Established and Growing Company.
Check out our website: www.LighthouseDrilling.com
Thanks!