ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Oil Rig Engineer Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

All JobsOil Rig Engineer JobsOil Rig Engineer Jobs in Alabama

Oil Rig Engineer information

See Alabama salary details

$53.9K

$101.2K

$184K

How much do oil rig engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for oil rig engineer in Alabama is $101,182.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,000.00 and $120,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an oil rig engineer do?

An Oil Rig Engineer is responsible for designing, maintaining, and overseeing the operation of equipment and systems used in the extraction of oil and gas from beneath the earth’s surface. They ensure that drilling processes are conducted safely, efficiently, and in compliance with environmental regulations. Their work often involves problem-solving on-site, coordinating with other engineers and technicians, and implementing new technologies to optimize production. Oil Rig Engineers may work offshore for extended periods and must be prepared for challenging and dynamic work environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an oil rig engineer?

To thrive as an Oil Rig Engineer, you need a strong background in mechanical, petroleum, or chemical engineering, often supported by a relevant engineering degree and industry certifications like IWCF or Well Control. Familiarity with drilling software, rig monitoring systems, and safety management tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills are essential for managing complex operations and working in challenging environments. These skills and qualifications are critical to ensure safe, efficient drilling processes and minimize operational risks on the rig.

What are some typical challenges oil rig engineers face when working offshore, and how can they prepare for them?

Oil Rig Engineers working offshore often encounter challenges such as adapting to extended periods away from home, unpredictable weather conditions, and the need to quickly solve technical problems in a high-pressure environment. They must be prepared to work long shifts and collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams to ensure safety and efficiency. To succeed, candidates should focus on developing strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and effective communication, as well as staying up-to-date with the latest safety protocols and industry technologies.

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

AspectOil Rig EngineerDrilling Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications in safety and drilling technologyBachelor's in Petroleum or Mechanical Engineering, similar certifications
Work EnvironmentOn offshore oil rigs, overseeing operations and safetyOnshore or offshore, planning and managing drilling operations
Employer & Industry UsageOil companies, drilling contractors, offshore platformsOil companies, drilling service companies, exploration firms

Oil Rig Engineers focus on the operation and safety of offshore rigs, while Drilling Engineers plan and execute drilling projects. Both roles require similar credentials and often work in overlapping environments, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

How to get an oil rig engineer job?

To become an oil rig engineer, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in petroleum engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field. Relevant experience, strong technical skills, and certifications such as H2S safety training or offshore survival are often required, along with the ability to work in challenging offshore environments and adhere to safety regulations.

What are popular job titles related to Oil Rig Engineer jobs in Alabama?

For Oil Rig Engineer jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Oil Rig Engineer jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Oil Rig Engineer jobs in Alabama are:

Oil Rig Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Oil Rig Engineer job openings in Alabama as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,182 per year, or $48.6 per hour.

Commercial Pump Rig Hand

Headland, AL • On-site

Hueman PE Talent Solutions
See more jobs at Hueman PE Talent Solutionsexternal

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Donald Smith Company is hiring a full-time Commercial Pump Rig Hand in Headland, AL.

Donald Smith Company is a family-owned and operated water well drilling and pump repair company that has been in business for over 80 years.

As a Commercial Pump Rig Hand, you will work alongside experienced pump installers and rig operators to safely install, remove, maintain, and troubleshoot commercial water well pump systems. This is a hands-on, physically demanding position that involves working outdoors, operating hand and power tools, handling heavy equipment and materials, and traveling to job sites. You’ll play an important role in helping the crew complete projects safely, efficiently, and on schedule.

Responsibilities

  • Assist with commercial water well pump installations and removals.
  • Handle and install pump column pipe, drop pipe, electrical cable, and related equipment.
  • Assist with pulling and setting submersible pump assemblies and vertical lineshaft turbine pump assemblies.
  • Operate hand tools, power tools, and rig-related equipment as directed.
  • Help set up, tear down, and move pump rigs and equipment between job sites.
  • Perform routine maintenance, cleaning, and inspection of equipment.
  • Assist with troubleshooting mechanical and pump-related problems.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area around the rig and job site.
  • Follow all company and job-site safety requirements.
  • Lift and move heavy equipment and materials and perform physically demanding outdoor work.
  • Work closely with the rig operator, pump installer, and other crew members to complete projects safely and efficiently.
  • Work professionally and collaboratively with coworkers, customers, engineers, and other job-site personnel.
  • Assist with occasional emergency weekend work, generally about once every two months.

Qualifications

  • Mechanical aptitude and a willingness to learn the water well pump trade.
  • Strong work ethic and reliable attendance.
  • Ability to take direction and work effectively as part of a team.
  • Valid driver's license and clean driving record.
  • Willingness to travel and stay overnight throughout the work week.
  • Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Ability to lift 50+ pounds repeatedly.
  • Ability to stand for extended periods and frequently bend, climb, reach, and work at heights.
  • Ability to work safely around heavy equipment, tools, and machinery.
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen.

Preferred Experience, But Not Required

  • Prior experience with heavy equipment, drilling rigs, construction, agriculture, or oilfield work.
  • Basic hand and power tool experience.
  • Forklift or equipment operation experience.
  • CDL or willingness to obtain a CDL.

Hours & Travel

  • Normal operating hours: 6:30 AM–4:30 PM, Monday–Friday.
  • Due to current demand, the team is averaging approximately 55 hours per week.
  • Crews typically work within a 4-hour radius of the shop, leaving Monday and returning home Friday.
  • Overnight travel is required when job sites are outside daily driving distance.
  • Company-paid lodging and per diem for meals are provided when traveling.
  • Employees ride in a company-provided truck while traveling with the crew.
  • Additional pay is provided for out-of-town work.
  • Occasional emergency weekend work may be required, generally about once every two months.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • 401(k), paid vacation, and 8 paid holidays
  • Career growth opportunities
  • Per diem and paid lodging when crews travel
  • Additional pay for out-of-town work
  • 90-day review with potential pay increase based on performance

If you are interested in learning more about a career with Donald Smith Company as a Commercial Pump Rig Hand, apply today!

#INDPE2023