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Oil Rig Helper Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Oil Rig Helper information

See New York salary details

$11

$19

$25

How much do oil rig helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for oil rig helper in New York is $19.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $20.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an oil rig helper?

Oil Rig Helpers, also known as roustabouts or floorhands, are entry-level workers on oil rigs who assist with the maintenance, repair, and general operation of drilling equipment and facilities. Their tasks may include cleaning and preparing the rig, handling materials and supplies, assembling or repairing equipment, and supporting more experienced crew members. Oil Rig Helpers play a vital role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of drilling operations and often work long shifts in challenging environments. This position is often a starting point for those wishing to advance in the oil and gas industry.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an oil rig helper?

To thrive as an Oil Rig Helper, you generally need physical stamina, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with basic hand and power tools, personal protective equipment (PPE), and safety certifications such as H2S awareness or first aid are typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and the ability to follow safety protocols are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are important to ensure safe, efficient operations and to minimize risks in a demanding and hazardous environment.

What are some common challenges oil rig helpers face during their shifts, and how can they prepare for them?

Oil Rig Helpers often work long hours in physically demanding and sometimes harsh outdoor environments. Common challenges include adapting to rotating shifts, maintaining safety standards in potentially hazardous conditions, and performing repetitive manual labor. To prepare, candidates should focus on building physical stamina, learning about industry safety protocols, and developing teamwork skills, as close collaboration with crew members is essential for both efficiency and safety on the rig.

How do you get into working on an oil rig?

To become an oil rig helper, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, physical fitness, and the ability to work in challenging environments. Entry-level positions often require on-the-job training, and obtaining safety certifications such as OSHA or BOSIET can improve job prospects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Oil Rig jobs in New York?

The most popular types of Oil Rig jobs in New York are:

What are popular job titles related to Oil Rig Helper jobs in New York?

For Oil Rig Helper jobs in New York, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in New York are hiring for Oil Rig Helper jobs?

Cities in New York with the most Oil Rig Helper job openings:

Infographic showing various Oil Rig Helper job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,415 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Directional Driller Operator

Henkels & McCoy, Inc.

Manhattan, NY • On-site

$60 - $75/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Henkels & McCoy rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Overview

Henkels & McCoy is an industry‑leading utility construction firm providing critical infrastructure construction and maintenance services for the power, oil & gas pipeline, gas distribution, and communication markets throughout North America. Founded in 1923, Henkels & McCoy adapts over 95 years of experience to the dynamic and evolving infrastructure needs of today. Henkels & McCoy has been recognized with an E. I. DuPont Safety Excellence Award and is a founding member of the ET&D Partnership, a collaborative industry partnership working to reduce fatalities, injuries, and illnesses in the electric line construction industry. H&M is a subsidiary of MasTec, a certified Minority‑Controlled Company by the National Minority Supplier.

As a Directional Driller Operator, operates horizontal/directional drill rigs, locates equipment, and product support equipment. Perform semi‑skilled activities related to HDD locating must be familiar with industry standards, policies, guidelines, and procedures. Join the MasTec family and help us provide the highest level of quality service to our customers and communities while maintaining our commitment to safety!

Responsibilities
  • Operate the drill rig efficiently.
  • Prepare job and drill so that the shot can be performed safely.
  • Pothole all utilities that will either be paralleled or crossed during the bore shot.
  • Verify existing utilities.
  • Fill water tanks with water.
  • Combine water with chemicals for boring according to the ground you are drilling in.
  • Locate the drill head from point A to point B without hitting any utilities at the correct depth.
  • Hook up swivel, reamer, and pipe product that will be pulled back to complete the bore shot.
  • Before the bore shot is started, walk out bore shot to ensure all utilities have been located and develop a plan for going above or below each utility or obstacle in the bore path.
  • Pull back the product with the correct hole opener and utilize the correct mud mixture to ensure that the product makes it from point B to point A.
  • Inspect and maintain job equipment.
  • Perform other duties as required and/or assigned.
Qualifications
  • A High School Diploma, or equivalent.
  • 1 year of relevant experience.
  • CDL Class A license or obtain one in 90 Days.
  • OSHA 10 Certification.
  • Precise hand‑eye coordination.
  • Good written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to perform operator level trouble shooting and maintenance of drill equipment/mixing unit.
  • Clarity of vision at 20 feet or more and 20 inches or less, with the ability to judge distance and space relationships.
  • Ability to identify and distinguish colors of utility flags and markings on the ground.

Preferred Qualifications

  • 3 or more years of experience.
  • Ability to clearly communicate instructions to assist with training.
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