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Oil Rig Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

$24 - $28/hr

Interpret Engineering Drawings * Forklift and rig parts into correct orientation for Plasma Cut ... oil/gas, nuclear and renewable energy with state-of-the-art heat exchangers. In addition to ...

Showing results 21-26

Oil Rig Engineer information

See California salary details

$58.7K

$110.2K

$200.3K

How much do oil rig engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for oil rig engineer in California is $110,170.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,400.00 and $130,800.00 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 job categories do people searching Oil Rig Engineer jobs in California look for?

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

Infographic showing various Oil Rig Engineer job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,170 per year, or $53 per hour.

General Technican - Plasma Cobalt Machine

On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

General Technician for Plasma Cobot Machine

Our current team at VPE Thermal is offering an opportunity for a general technician with a strong practical mechanical background. As an addition to the team, you will have the opportunity to learn from experts in the field with decades of experience and draw on your own background to contribute to projects that result in heat exchangers that power the world.

Pay Range: $24-28/hour, depending on experience

A Plasma Cobot Technician teaches the robotic arm its movement sequence and locations by positioning the robotic arm in the desired location and angle in relation to the part to produce the desired part according to specifications. This is accomplished by understanding the drawings/specifications and application of stretch-out patterns to locate the cut path for plasma cutting.

Job Description:

  • Understand the relationship between the development or stretch-out (2D) to the material to be cut (3-D).
  • Position the stretch-out on to the materials to be cut.
  • Identify and teach the robotic arm locations along the cut line with the appropriate angle of cut.
  • Verify cut parameters (dry run); speed, cut height, angle, direction, kerf size.
  • Perform and monitor torch during the cutting process
  • Verify cut is to specifications
  • Monitor Cobot consumables and change out as needed
  • Load and unload cutting table
  • Interpret Engineering Drawings
  • Forklift and rig parts into correct orientation for Plasma Cut
  • Ability to work long hours on feet wearing breathing respirators and earing protection while machine is running.
  • Ability to move and position heavy parts.
  • Help in other departments as needed.


Required Experience:

  • More than two years of experience working in a fast-paced industrial setting
  • More than two years operating heavy machinery/equipment and forklift
  • Ability to interpret work instructions and engineering drawings
  • Ability to interface with other technicians (welders, machinists), engineers, or subcontractors
  • Knowledge of or exposure to manufacturing processes including cutting, milling, forming, and welding of metals
  • Ability to measure and layout in inches and millimeters

Desired Experience:

  • Basic drafting ability to produce drawings for supplier communications
  • Ability or perform structural mild steel MIG welding
  • Prior work experience in ISO/AS9100 environment

Education and/or Experience

Associate's degree (A. A.) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school; or 2 years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Preferred degree is in mechanics, electronics, or manufacturing.

Physical Demands The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand. The employee is occasionally required to walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms and talk or hear. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, peripheral vision and ability to adjust focus.

VPE Thermal is a world-renowned leader in compact heat exchanger design and manufacturing. Our company serves a wide range of industries with commercial products including power generation, chemical processing, oil/gas, nuclear and renewable energy with state-of-the-art heat exchangers. In addition to commercial products, we maintain a strong culture of internal R&D with exciting projects using cutting edge manufacturing technology and design/analysis tools to invent the heat exchangers of tomorrow.

Employment Type: Full Time
Salary: $24 - $28 Annual
Bonus/Commission: No