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Oil Rig Labor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Experience with oilfield drilling or service rigs is an asset. * PHYSICAL AND WORK ENVIORNMENT ... Must be able to lift up to 75lbs and perform physical labor including climbing ladders/stairs and ...

Oil Rig Labor information

See California salary details

$14

$22

$37

How much do oil rig labor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for oil rig labor in California is $22.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $28.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an oil rig labor?

An Oil Rig Labor job involves physically demanding work on offshore or land-based drilling rigs. Responsibilities include assisting with equipment maintenance, handling materials, cleaning work areas, and supporting drillers and other crew members. Workers must follow strict safety protocols and be prepared for long shifts in challenging conditions. This role is essential for the efficient operation of oil and gas drilling projects. No prior experience is required for entry-level positions, but physical fitness and a strong work ethic are essential.

How much do you get paid on oil rigs?

Oil rig laborers typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, with experienced workers and those in supervisory roles earning higher wages. Pay can vary based on location, experience, certifications, and the demanding nature of offshore work, which often includes shift work and hazardous conditions.

How much do oil rig laborers make?

Oil rig laborers typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, with experienced workers and those in offshore positions often earning higher wages. Overtime, hazard pay, and certifications can increase total compensation, and the job requires physical stamina and safety training.

What are the working conditions and schedule like for an oil rig labor?

Oil Rig Labor jobs typically involve working outdoors in challenging weather conditions and around heavy machinery, often in remote locations. Shifts are generally long and may follow a rotation schedule, such as two weeks on the rig followed by two weeks off, with 12-hour workdays being common. Teamwork is essential, as you will regularly collaborate with other crew members to complete tasks safely and efficiently. Adherence to strict safety protocols is a daily priority, making attention to detail and communication skills vital for success and well-being in this role.

What skills and qualifications are needed for an oil rig labor?

To thrive as an Oil Rig Laborer, you need physical stamina, mechanical aptitude, and a strong safety awareness, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with rig machinery, personal protective equipment (PPE), and safety certifications like HAZWOPER or first aid/CPR are commonly required. Dependability, teamwork, and the ability to follow instructions under pressure are valuable soft skills in this environment. These abilities are critical for maintaining safe and efficient operations in physically demanding and potentially hazardous conditions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Oil Rig Labor jobs in California? The most popular types of Oil Rig Labor jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Oil Rig Labor jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Oil Rig Labor jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Oil Rig Labor jobs? Cities in California with the most Oil Rig Labor job openings:
Infographic showing various Oil Rig Labor job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,576 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

USC - WE ARE HIRING! Drilling | California Region | Driller, Assistant Driller, Derrickhand, Moto...

ensignenergy

Bakersfield, CA

$37.80/hr

Other

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

USC – WE ARE HIRING! Drilling | California Region | Driller, Assistant Driller, Derrickhand, Motorhand, and Floorhand

Job Summary

The Drilling Team (USC) Driller, Assistant Driller, Derrickhand, Motorhand, and Floorhand performs the duties of general manual labor on the rig and supports and assists other members of the drilling crew during all rig operations. 

  • Drilling – Floorhand (USC) Bakersfield, California $27.00 an hour
  • Drilling – Motorhand (USC) Bakersfield, California $28.08 an hour
  • Drilling – Derrickhand (USC) Bakersfield, California $31.86 an hour
  • Drilling – Assistant Driller (USC) Bakersfield, California $32.94 an hour
  • Drilling - Driller (USC) Bakersfield, California $37.80 an hour

 Specific Responsibilities and Accountabilities

  • Works in a safe, healthy, and environmentally protective manner
  • Operates tongs, picks up/lays down pipe and latches tubing in elevators
  • Manages tools on the work floor
  • Operates the mud pump
  • Nipples up/down BOP
  • Tallys the stands (pipe)
  • Assists in daily maintenance and housekeeping
  • Reports and corrects any unsafe work practices and safety hazards
  • Participates in all safety programs, processes and requirements
  • Attends Operations Training up to two times per year and up to five days per training at designated locations
  • Performs other duties as directed by management

Technical Competencies

  • Understands and is capable of reading all safety / training requirements and materials
  • Develops an understanding of all major rig components and the necessary servicing

Behavioral Competencies

  • Works in a manner that insures personal safety and the safety of fellow crewmembers
  • Maintains a professional, effective, and polite relationship with other Ensign employees and suppliers
  • Strives continuously to develop a greater knowledge of the total operations, including the duties and responsibilities of each position
  • Works well as a team player and demonstrates willingness to share knowledge to advance knowledge and skills of others
  • Respects chain of command and follows thru on instructions

Education and Experience

  • Prior experience in oil field, heavy industry or construction is beneficial
  • High School diploma or GED is preferred

Qualifications

  • The employee must:
    • Be at least 18 years of age
    • Pass a post-offer physical examination, fitness testing, safety aptitude test, drug tests & background check
    • Provide proof of and maintain proper legal authorization to work in the United States
    • Arrange for reliable transportation to and from work and training locations
    • Speak and read English well enough  to understand verbal and written safety postings, alerts and announcements, communicate with co-workers and be able to participate in job safety analysis meetings

Other Accountabilities

  • Business Ethics – Understands fully Ensign’s ethics policy and its application in all business dealings including contractual agreements and contract negotiations
  • Business Policies - Understands and agrees to follow all of Ensign’s Policy and Directives and procedures as set forth in the Ensign Company Policy and Basic Directives Handbook for Employees
  • Certifications – Maintains technical and safety certifications required by company or government agencies; remains current on all OSHA, EUSD and other required training
  • Drug-free workplace - Conforms to a drug-free workplace, not be under the influence of mind-altering prescription or non-prescription drugs, including alcohol and other drugs of abuse.

Occupational Health and Safety – Understands fully the Ensign Health and Safety policy and self-responsibility for own health and safety at work; Demonstrates responsibility to avoid adversely affecting the health and safety of others through any act or omission

  • Uses the correct protective clothing and equipment as provided by Ensign and guards against misuse or damage to such equipment
  • Reports any hazardous situations arising in the workplace that cannot be self-corrected, or injury incurred during the course of work, no matter how minor
  • Avoids injury resulting from manual handling tasks, by use of risk assessment, correct mechanical handling equipment and correct manual handling techniques

 Ensign United States Drilling Inc. is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer.  Ensign provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.  Ensign takes affirmative action to employ, advance in employment and otherwise treat qualified individuals without discrimination as required by law.