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Oil Drilling Rig Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Highlands Drilling LLC

Driller

Weston, WV · 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 ...

NABORS

Drilling Rig Up Project Manager

Crosby, TX

$23.25 - $31.75/hr

Minimum of 3-5 years' experience within the oil and gas industry; experience in drilling operations ... Supervise two or more rig-up crews in the yard, including performance evaluations, disciplinary ...

Coastal Well Service LLC

Driller

Morgantown, WV

$23.75 - $32.25/hr

Operating and monitoring the essential systems of the drilling rig including: the hoisting, well ... Previous drilling experience in the oil/gas industry * 2+ years of previous derrickhand experience ...

Patterson-UTI

Field Maintenance Tech

Saint Clairsville, OH

$16.75 - $22.75/hr

Various levels of knowledge and experience repairing multiple types of oilfield drilling equipment and systems, or related equipment Job Requirements: * Ability to safely navigate drilling rig work ...

Patterson-UTI

Field Maintenance Tech PDC

Tyler, TX

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

Various levels of knowledge and experience repairing multiple types of oilfield drilling equipment and systems, or related equipment Job Requirements: * Ability to safely navigate drilling rig work ...

Patterson-UTI

Field Maintenance Tech PDC

Tyler, TX · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

Various levels of knowledge and experience repairing multiple types of oilfield drilling equipment and systems, or related equipment Job Requirements: * Ability to safely navigate drilling rig work ...

Patterson-UTI

Field Maintenance Tech

Saint Clairsville, OH · On-site

$16.75 - $22.75/hr

Various levels of knowledge and experience repairing multiple types of oilfield drilling equipment and systems, or related equipment Job Requirements: * Ability to safely navigate drilling rig work ...

Patterson-UTI

Field Maintenance Tech PDC - WTX

Midland, TX · On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

Various levels of knowledge and experience repairing multiple types of oilfield drilling equipment and systems, or related equipment Job Requirements: * Ability to safely navigate drilling rig work ...

Patterson-UTI

Field Maintenance Tech PDC - WTX

Midland, TX

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

Various levels of knowledge and experience repairing multiple types of oilfield drilling equipment and systems, or related equipment Job Requirements: * Ability to safely navigate drilling rig work ...

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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 Jul 14, 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 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 rig?

Getting hired as an oil rig worker 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 prior industry knowledge. The job environment is demanding, with long shifts and remote locations, which can also influence hiring considerations.

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.

How much do drilling rigs make?

Oil drilling rig operators and related workers typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and shift schedules. Skilled workers with certifications and experience in high-demand areas can earn higher wages, especially in offshore or remote environments.

What jobs pay $4000 a week without a degree?

Oil drilling rig jobs, such as roustabouts or roughnecks, can pay around $1,500 to $3,000 per week, but some specialized roles like drilling supervisors or toolpushers with experience and certifications can earn over $4,000 weekly. These positions often require physical stamina, technical skills, and safety training but typically do not require a college degree. High-paying roles depend on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the rig operations.

How much does it pay to work at an oil rig?

Oil rig workers typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, with experienced personnel and specialized roles such as drillers or engineers earning higher wages. Compensation often includes hazard pay, overtime, and benefits, and workers usually operate on rotational schedules that can impact overall earnings.

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 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.
More about Oil Drilling Rig jobs
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What states have the most Oil Drilling Rig jobs? States with the most job openings for Oil Drilling Rig jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Oil Drilling Rig jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Oil Drilling Rig jobs are:
Oil Drilling Rig jobs near you
Driller

Driller

Highlands Drilling LLC

Weston, WV • On-site

$21.50 - $29.25/hr

Other

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

 Company:

  •  Highlands Drilling

 Position:

  •  Driller

Department:

  • Operations

Location:

  • Various/Field-Based

Direct Report:

  • Rig Manager

Responsibilities:

  • Operating and monitoring the essential systems of the drilling rig including: the hoisting, well control, mud and power systems found on all drilling rigs
  • Assisting and supervising rig up/down procedures
  • Responsible for ensuring full rig compliance with all mandatory company, client, state and federal rules and regulations that relate to the drilling rig
  • Supervises, trains and coordinates the activities of the drill crew
  • Performs duties of other crew members when needed
  • Ensures safety is a top priority for all rig personnel
  • Manages and directs the daily activities of the rig crew in the tool pushers absence.
  • Adhere to all company policies, procedures and Government safety regulations pertaining to the worksite.
  • Participate in safety initiatives.
  • Assist in moving 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 righand and as a derrickhand
  • Previous experience in a high paced safety sensitive work environment

Skills & Abilities:

  • Ability to lead and direct subordinates
  • Ability to delegate work site activities and verify their completion
  • Ability to interrupt drilling conditions and operate rig accordingly
  • Ability to communicate and comprehend the efforts of others
  • Ability to think and act quickly
  • Ability to work in a team environment
  • Ability to communicate and comprehend the efforts of others
  • Ability to think and act quickly
  • Ability to work in a team environment
  • Ability to be attentive to details in a fast paced working environment
  • Ability to multi-task, stay organized and close out assigned tasks
  • Ability to operate independently and make safe decisions regarding personal conduct
  • Ability to work for extended periods of time in harsh weather conditions
  • Ability to think and act independently to ensure personal and team success and safety
  • Ability to work flexible hours and travel

Certifications:

  • MSHA Part 48 is preferred
  • OHSA 10 Certification is preferred
  • SafeLand Certification is preferred

Travel:

  • Required

Physical Requirements:

  • The individual must be able to wear and properly utilize appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to work or visit within areas where it is required.  This includes hard hat, safety glasses, life vest, respirators, ear plugs, steel toed shoes, or other protective equipment as required by the work performed and location the work is being done
  • Walking, stepping, climbing or otherwise moving from one location on the job site to another, and normally involves physically getting into and out of equipment through the use of vertical mounted ladders up to and including 10' or more in height
  • Visually seeing driving operations well (either naturally or with corrective lenses)
  • Standing, stooping kneeling, squatting, climbing and sitting
  • Repetitive movements by feet, shoulders, arms, wrists, hands and back in performance of work
  • Working at elevated heights
  • Lifting 50 lb. objects occasionally
  • Carrying 50 lb. objects occasionally
  • Adapting to outdoor conditions and prolonged exposure to sometimes adverse weather conditions
  • Remaining calm during emergencies and respond appropriately as dictated by the circumstance of the incident
  • Exposure to working outdoors in all-weather conditions
  • Ability to work more than 40 hours in any given week including weekend assignments and holidays as required

EEO:

  • SDI HD Holding LLC DBA Highlands Drilling is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabilities and protected veteran status

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