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Oil Rig Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Crane Operator - All Levels

San Diego, CA · On-site

$33.15 - $36.50/hr

Inspects crane for defective parts and performs routine maintenance and inspection procedures ... Rig machinery and material in and out of ships. * Provide data into log books relating to lifts.

Crane Operator - All Levels

San Diego, CA · On-site

$33.15 - $36.50/hr

Inspects crane for defective parts and performs routine maintenance and inspection procedures ... Rig machinery and material in and out of ships. * Provide data into log books relating to lifts.

Crane Operator - All Levels

San Diego, CA · On-site

$33.15 - $36.50/hr

Inspects crane for defective parts and performs routine maintenance and inspection procedures ... Rig machinery and material in and out of ships. * Provide data into log books relating to lifts.

Showing results 41-47

Oil Rig Inspector information

See California salary details

$12

$26

$51

How much do oil rig inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for oil rig inspector in California is $27.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $31.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an oil rig inspector do?

An Oil Rig Inspector is responsible for ensuring that oil rigs comply with safety, environmental, and operational regulations. They conduct regular inspections of equipment, procedures, and working conditions to identify potential hazards or violations. Their work helps prevent accidents, protect workers, and ensure that drilling operations run smoothly and within legal requirements. Oil Rig Inspectors often work both offshore and onshore, and must be knowledgeable about industry standards and government regulations.

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

To thrive as an Oil Rig Inspector, you need a solid background in engineering or safety management, industry certifications such as API or OSHA, and experience with drilling operations. Familiarity with inspection tools, non-destructive testing equipment, and regulatory compliance systems is typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and effective communication are critical soft skills in this role. These skills ensure oil rig safety, regulatory compliance, and the prevention of costly accidents or environmental incidents.

What are some common challenges faced by oil rig inspectors during offshore inspections?

Oil Rig Inspectors often encounter challenges such as harsh weather conditions, remote locations, and the need to adhere to strict safety and regulatory protocols. The role requires adaptability, as inspections may involve unconventional hours and extended periods away from shore. Effective communication and collaboration with diverse teams, including engineers and rig operators, are essential to ensure compliance and address issues promptly. Inspectors must also stay current with evolving industry standards and technology to perform thorough assessments.

What is the difference between Oil Rig Inspector vs Oil & Gas Technician?

AspectOil Rig InspectorOil & Gas Technician
CertificationsAPI Inspector Certifications, safety trainingTechnical certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentOffshore oil rigs, industrial sitesOffshore platforms, drilling sites, refineries
Employer & Industry UsageOil companies, inspection firmsOil companies, service providers
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Oil Rig Inspectors focus on inspecting equipment, safety compliance, and ensuring regulatory standards on offshore rigs. Oil & Gas Technicians perform technical tasks like maintenance, troubleshooting, and operational support. While both roles work in the oil industry and may share certifications, their primary responsibilities differ, with inspectors emphasizing safety and compliance, and technicians focusing on operational tasks.

How do you become an oil rig inspector?

To become an oil rig inspector, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or certification in offshore safety, inspection procedures, or engineering. Many inspectors gain experience in the oil and gas industry or related fields, and certifications such as API (American Petroleum Institute) certifications can enhance job prospects.

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Oil Rig Inspector job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,159 per year, or $27 per hour.

Plug & Abandonment Technician - Intervention Services & Drilling Tools

Weatherford

Santa Paula, CA • On-site

$25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Weatherford rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 87 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

Job Summary                                     
The Plug & Abandonment Technician role undertakes hands-on tasks and utilizes Weatherford's equipment, machinery and systems. The role applies techniques and practices to complete assignments using technical manuals, procedures and work instructions. While this is a generic job description covering all levels of the Field Operator position, all aspects of the roles and responsibilities are relevant. More senior roles may have leadership responsibilities at the rig site of other Field Operators.
 
Hourly Rate: $25/hour + field bonus eligible
 
Responsibilities
Performs duties according to documented Weatherford policies and complies with all Standard Operating Procedures and Work Place Practices
Participates in all daily operations & safety meetings, toolbox, Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) and reports any issues promptly using the appropriate tools
Maintains equipment, facilities and work area in a presentable and safe working condition
Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of all policies & procedures, related operational & non-operational documentation, support systems, complies with all Technical Work Instructions, carrying out work assignments to the highest quality level and within time constraints as required
Performs functional tests, inspection and monitoring of equipment with strict adherence to specific work instructions against their level of training & competence
Inspects used parts to determine changes in dimensional requirements, using rules, calipers, micrometers, or other measuring instruments
Follows maintenance processes & procedures to undertake the following; unloading, disassembly, cleaning, pressure testing, visual checking, assembly, loading, and storage of tools, completing all necessary documentation as required against their level of training & competence
Rigs up / down equipment with strict adherence to specific work instructions against their level of training & competence
Cleans, lubricates, repairs and operates equipment as per work instructions against their level of training & competence
Services and maintains mechanical, electronic and hydraulic components as per work instructions against their level of training & competence
Drives Vehicles such as Pickups, trucks and truck-mounted units to well sites
Maintains a satisfactory driving record In senior positions, the employee will often lead other field operators in undertaking all the assignments detailed above. This includes Planning and Coordination of jobs from beginning to end, operation of equipment, troubleshooting equipment issues, implementing corrective actions, and providing access to all related documented policies, procedures, work instructions, and technical manuals allowing the team to complete their work effectively and efficiently. They will provide leadership, act as a mentor and perform competency assessments for other co-workers.
Senior roles might lead the workshop, defining and distributing the work assignment schedules while evaluating the quality, proficiency, and efficiency of the work being carried out through performing regular inspections to ensure compliance with standard operating procedures
Performs other duties and activities safely as assigned by supervisor within physical constraints of the job
 
 
Skills/Education Required
1 - 2 years of experience in the Oil & Gas industry.
High School Diploma
Basic Mathematics
Perform maintenance, repair, troubleshooting, and monitoring of equipment
Critical thinking, active learning & listening, complex problem solving
Good reading and writing skills, strong judgment and decision-making to be in line with policies & procedures
Time management
Quality Control Analysis to ensure the product meets required standards
Capable to meet the physical demands that the role requires
Information & task ordering & ability to identify when a problem may occur and, where possible, to understand the solution
Ability to react effectively and efficiently in operating tools and machinery
Ability to imagine how tools and products will look when preparing for assembly, repair, or modifications
 

 
Skills/Education Preferred
Basic Computer Skills
 

 
Travel Requirement
This role may require domestic and potentially international travel of up to 50-75%
 
 
About Us:
Weatherford is a leading global energy services company. Our world-class experts partner with customers to optimize their resources and realize the full potential of their assets. Across our operating locations, including manufacturing, research and development, service, and training facilities, operators choose us for strategic solutions that add efficiency, flexibility, and responsibility to any energy operation.
When you join Weatherford, you instantly feel connected to something bigger - a community that is grounded by our core values and driven to create innovative solutions for our customers. We celebrate each other's successes, grow together, and learn from each other constantly. Individually, we are impressive. Together, we are unstoppable. We are One Weatherford.
Weatherford is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.
 
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