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Oil Drilling Rig Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

NABORS

RigCLOUD Technician I - California

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$20.50 - $28/hr

Experience with oilfield drilling or service rigs is an asset. * PHYSICAL AND WORK ENVIORNMENT ... Frequent exposure to outdoor elements, drilling rig environments, and electronic devices. * Must be ...

California Resources Corporation

Electrician

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$26.50 - $36.25/hr

California Resources Corporation is a publicly traded oil and natural gas exploration and ... Respond to location emergencies * Assist in drilling rig and production rig moves * Provide ...

SIFCO Industries

Maintenance Technician

Orange, CA · On-site

$26 - $32/hr

Safely rig and move heavy machinery or components using proper lifting and material handling ... Oils, airborne particles, and industrial conditions * Occasional wet or humid conditions

SIFCO Industries

Maintenance Technician

Orange, CA

$26 - $32/hr

Safely rig and move heavy machinery or components using proper lifting and material handling ... Oils, airborne particles, and industrial conditions * Occasional wet or humid conditions

NRG Energy

Maintenance Mechanic

Nipton, CA

$81K - $147K/yr

Ability to operate machine shop equipment such as drill presses, lathes and boring mills. * Ability ... Ability to climb ladders to rig heavy chainfalls, use air impact wrenches, heavy equipment and ...

NRG

Maintenance Mechanic

CA · On-site

$81K - $147K/yr

Ability to operate machine shop equipment such as drill presses, lathes and boring mills. * Ability ... Ability to climb ladders to rig heavy chainfalls, use air impact wrenches, heavy equipment and ...

NRG

Maintenance Mechanic

Nipton, CA

$81K - $147K/yr

Ability to operate machine shop equipment such as drill presses, lathes and boring mills. * Ability ... Ability to climb ladders to rig heavy chainfalls, use air impact wrenches, heavy equipment and ...

All JobsOil Drilling Rig JobsOil Drilling Rig Jobs in California

Oil Drilling Rig information

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.

Is it hard to get hired at an oil drilling rig?

Getting hired at an oil drilling rig can be competitive and often requires relevant experience, physical fitness, and safety certifications such as H2S or BOSIET. Entry-level positions may be available, but advanced roles typically demand technical skills and industry training. The hiring process involves background checks, interviews, and sometimes physical assessments due to the demanding environment.

What are common challenges faced by workers on an oil drilling rig, and how are they 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 skills and qualifications are needed to work on an oil drilling rig?

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.

How much does a job on an oil drilling rig pay?

Jobs on oil drilling rigs typically pay between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, role, and location. Entry-level positions such as roustabouts start around $40,000 to $60,000, while specialized roles like drillers and engineers can earn significantly more, often exceeding $100,000 per year. Overtime, safety certifications, and working in remote environments can also impact compensation.

What is an oil drilling rig?

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.

How much do you get paid on oil drilling rigs?

Workers on oil drilling rigs typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, role, and location. Drilling rig operators and roughnecks often start at lower wages but can increase with skills and certifications such as Well Control or H2S safety training.

What are popular job titles related to Oil Drilling Rig jobs in California?

For Oil Drilling Rig jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Oil Drilling Rig jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Oil Drilling Rig jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Oil Drilling Rig jobs?

Cities in California with the most Oil Drilling Rig job openings:

Oil Drilling Rig jobs near you
Infographic showing various Oil Drilling Rig job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

RigCLOUD Technician I - California

NABORS

Bakersfield, CA • On-site

$20.50 - $28/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

The ideal candidate will possess a strong mechanical or electrical background, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to operate independently in high-pressure situations. You will represent the company on the front lines, ensuring optimal performance of our hardware and software solutions on drilling and service rigs.

In addition to traditional field service responsibilities, this role requires foundational IT technician capabilities, including basic networking, system configuration, and technical support for computer-based monitoring equipment.

Nabors is a leading provider of advanced technology for the energy industry. With operations in about 20 countries, Nabors has established a global network of people, technology and equipment to deploy solutions that deliver safe, efficient and responsible hydrocarbon production. By leveraging its core competencies, particularly in drilling, engineering, automation, data science and manufacturing, Nabors aims to innovate the future of energy and enable the transition to a lower carbon world.
Equal Opportunity Employer

Nabors is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibiting discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, religion, age, color, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.  This applies to all terms and conditions of employment including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leave of absence, compensation, and training.  To learn more about our Fair Employment practices, please refer to the Nabors Code of Conduct.
  • Background in electrical, mechanical, or electronic systems is highly desirable.
  • Strong understanding of instrument calibration procedures, pressure/temperature/flow measurement devices, and signal processing.
  • Proficient in the use of multimeters, pressure calibrators, HART communicators, and related diagnostic tools.
  • Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (e.g., Modbus, CANbus, Ethernet/IP).
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills (both verbal and written).
  • Well-developed problem-solving and analytical abilities with a high degree of personal initiative.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision in remote field environments.
  • Comfortable working irregular hours, including long shifts (12+ hours), and being on call.
  • Sales-minded with the ability to recognize opportunities and promote products/services
  • PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Associate degree in electronics, mechanics, or related technical field, or equivalent work experience preferred.
  • Minimum 2+ years of field service or technical experience preferred.
  • Experience with oilfield drilling or service rigs is an asset.
  • PHYSICAL AND WORK ENVIORNMENT:
  • Must be able to lift up to 75lbs and perform physical labor including climbing ladders/stairs and working in confined spaces.
  • Frequent exposure to outdoor elements, drilling rig environments, and electronic devices.
  • Must be able to drive long distances and travel extensively (75%+ travel required).
  • Willingness to work a rotational or extended shift schedule (e.g., 14 days on / 7 days off or 14 days on / 14 days off).

Work Authorization Requirement: Candidates must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Nabors does not provide work visa sponsorship for this position, now or in the future.

  • Install, commission, test, and calibrate company products at customer sites in accordance with safety and quality standards.
  • Provide on-site training to customers on the proper and safe use of equipment and software systems.
  • Perform field upgrades and maintenance of hardware and software components.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues to ensure customer satisfaction.
  • Manage and maintain inventory, company assets, and service documentation.
  • Monitor rig movement and activity in assigned regions; assist with developing customer targeting strategies.
  • Record and report equipment performance, service activities, and customer feedback in company databases.
  • Recommend product or service enhancements by evaluating customer needs and system performance.
  • Provide technical and sales support in collaboration with account management teams.
  • Work closely with Field Leads and other technicians to ensure alignment and service consistency.
  • Adhere to and promote company safety standards and procedures at all times.
  • Other duties as assigned by the supervisor or field support management.

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