... rig design through test facility construction, commissioning, and ultimately integrated plant ... Candidates from oil & gas, aerospace propulsion, industrial turbomachinery, or power generation are ...
... rig design through test facility construction, commissioning, and ultimately integrated plant ... Candidates from oil & gas, aerospace propulsion, industrial turbomachinery, or power generation are ...
Director Instrumentation, Control, and Electrical - Power Conversion
Torrance, CA · On-site
$225 - $300/hr
... rig design through test facility construction, commissioning, and ultimately integrated plant ... Candidates from oil & gas, aerospace propulsion, industrial turbomachinery, or power generation are ...
New
Director Instrumentation, Control, and Electrical - Power Conversion
Torrance, CA · On-site
$225 - $300/hr
... rig design through test facility construction, commissioning, and ultimately integrated plant ... Candidates from oil & gas, aerospace propulsion, industrial turbomachinery, or power generation are ...
New
Maintenance Mechanic
Nipton, CA · On-site
$81K - $147K/yr
Communicate effectively verbally and in writing with management and other personnel Preferred ... Ability to climb ladders to rig heavy chainfalls, use air impact wrenches, heavy equipment and ...
Maintenance Mechanic
Nipton, CA · On-site
$81K - $147K/yr
Communicate effectively verbally and in writing with management and other personnel Preferred ... Ability to climb ladders to rig heavy chainfalls, use air impact wrenches, heavy equipment and ...
Maintenance Technician
Mountain Pass, CA · On-site
$35.70 - $47.18/hr
Complete any other tasks as needed or as directed by management. Basic Qualifications: * Five (5) ... Must be able to demonstrate the ability to properly rig a 1,000 lb. unbalanced load in a short ...
Quick apply
Maintenance Technician
Mountain Pass, CA · On-site
$35.70 - $47.18/hr
Complete any other tasks as needed or as directed by management. Basic Qualifications: * Five (5) ... Must be able to demonstrate the ability to properly rig a 1,000 lb. unbalanced load in a short ...
MAINTENANCE MECHANIC I-1ST SHIFT
Hacienda Heights, CA · On-site
$21.72 - $28/hr
Knowledge of forklift operation and rig heavy equipment. Familiar with Lock-out/Tag-out procedures ... manager(s), contractors, vendors, customers, suppliers, etc. on issues in the areas of safety ...
MAINTENANCE MECHANIC I-1ST SHIFT
Hacienda Heights, CA · On-site
$21.72 - $28/hr
Knowledge of forklift operation and rig heavy equipment. Familiar with Lock-out/Tag-out procedures ... manager(s), contractors, vendors, customers, suppliers, etc. on issues in the areas of safety ...
Maintenance Mechanic
$81K - $147K/yr
Communicate effectively verbally and in writing with management and other personnel Preferred ... Ability to climb ladders to rig heavy chainfalls, use air impact wrenches, heavy equipment and ...
Maintenance Mechanic
$81K - $147K/yr
Communicate effectively verbally and in writing with management and other personnel Preferred ... Ability to climb ladders to rig heavy chainfalls, use air impact wrenches, heavy equipment and ...
Maintenance Mechanic
CA · On-site
$81K - $147K/yr
Communicate effectively verbally and in writing with management and other personnel Preferred ... Ability to climb ladders to rig heavy chainfalls, use air impact wrenches, heavy equipment and ...
Maintenance Mechanic
CA · On-site
$81K - $147K/yr
Communicate effectively verbally and in writing with management and other personnel Preferred ... Ability to climb ladders to rig heavy chainfalls, use air impact wrenches, heavy equipment and ...
AIRCRAFT MECHANIC
Travis Air Force Base, CA · On-site
$55K/yr
... Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook X-118C for WG-8800 - Aircraft Overhaul Family ... Ability to rig, operationally test, and/or troubleshoot systems; determine when they are operating ...
AIRCRAFT MECHANIC
Travis Air Force Base, CA · On-site
$55K/yr
... Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook X-118C for WG-8800 - Aircraft Overhaul Family ... Ability to rig, operationally test, and/or troubleshoot systems; determine when they are operating ...
AIRCRAFT MECHANIC
Travis Air Force Base, CA · On-site
$55K/yr
... Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook X-118C for WG-8800 - Aircraft Overhaul Family ... Ability to rig, operationally test, and/or troubleshoot systems; determine when they are operating ...
AIRCRAFT MECHANIC
Travis Air Force Base, CA · On-site
$55K/yr
... Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook X-118C for WG-8800 - Aircraft Overhaul Family ... Ability to rig, operationally test, and/or troubleshoot systems; determine when they are operating ...
... Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook X-118C for WG-8800 - Aircraft Overhaul Family ... Ability to rig, operationally test, and/or troubleshoot systems; determine when they are operating ...
... Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook X-118C for WG-8800 - Aircraft Overhaul Family ... Ability to rig, operationally test, and/or troubleshoot systems; determine when they are operating ...
... Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook X-118C for WG-8800 - Aircraft Overhaul Family ... Ability to rig, operationally test, and/or troubleshoot systems; determine when they are operating ...
... Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook X-118C for WG-8800 - Aircraft Overhaul Family ... Ability to rig, operationally test, and/or troubleshoot systems; determine when they are operating ...
AIRCRAFT MECHANIC
Beale Air Force Base, CA · On-site
$55K/yr
... Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook X-118C for WG-8800 - Aircraft Overhaul Family ... Ability to rig, operationally test, and/or troubleshoot systems; determine when they are operating ...
AIRCRAFT MECHANIC
Beale Air Force Base, CA · On-site
$55K/yr
... Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook X-118C for WG-8800 - Aircraft Overhaul Family ... Ability to rig, operationally test, and/or troubleshoot systems; determine when they are operating ...
AIRCRAFT MECHANIC
Beale Air Force Base, CA · On-site
$55K/yr
... Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook X-118C for WG-8800 - Aircraft Overhaul Family ... Ability to rig, operationally test, and/or troubleshoot systems; determine when they are operating ...
AIRCRAFT MECHANIC
Beale Air Force Base, CA · On-site
$55K/yr
... Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook X-118C for WG-8800 - Aircraft Overhaul Family ... Ability to rig, operationally test, and/or troubleshoot systems; determine when they are operating ...
Oil Rig Manager information
See California salary details
$22.7K - $29.8K
4% of jobs
$29.8K - $37K
10% of jobs
$42.7K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$37K - $44.1K
14% of jobs
$44.1K - $51.2K
16% of jobs
The median wage is $57.3K / yr.
$51.2K - $58.4K
7% of jobs
$58.4K - $65.5K
10% of jobs
$69.1K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$65.5K - $72.6K
29% of jobs
$72.6K - $79.8K
4% of jobs
$79.8K - $86.9K
3% of jobs
$86.9K - $94K
1% of jobs
$94K - $101.2K
2% of jobs
$22.7K
$60.5K
$101.2K
How much do oil rig manager jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for oil rig manager in California is $60,548.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,400.00 and $68,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What does an oil rig manager do?
An Oil Rig Manager, also known as a rig superintendent or toolpusher, oversees the operations and crew on an oil drilling rig. They are responsible for ensuring that drilling activities are carried out safely, efficiently, and in compliance with regulations. Their duties include coordinating with engineers and geologists, managing equipment and supplies, supervising personnel, and handling emergencies. Oil Rig Managers also maintain detailed records and reports of drilling progress and safety incidents.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an oil rig manager?
To thrive as an Oil Rig Manager, you need extensive experience in drilling operations, strong leadership abilities, and typically a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with drilling management software, safety compliance systems, and certifications such as IWCF or NEBOSH are commonly required. Exceptional communication, decision-making, and problem-solving skills help manage crews and respond to critical situations. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective operations in a high-risk environment.
What are some common challenges oil rig managers face in coordinating teams on offshore rigs?
Oil Rig Managers often encounter challenges such as managing diverse teams working long shifts in remote locations, ensuring clear communication across language and cultural barriers, and maintaining rigorous safety standards under pressure. They must also adapt to rapidly changing weather and operational conditions, which require quick decision-making and strong leadership. Building trust and morale within the team is essential to maintaining productivity and a safe working environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Oil Rig jobs in California?
The most popular types of Oil Rig jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Oil Rig Manager jobs in California?
For Oil Rig Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Oil Rig Manager jobs in California look for?
The top searched job categories for Oil Rig Manager jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Oil Rig Manager jobs?
Cities in California with the most Oil Rig Manager job openings:
Director Instrumentation, Control, and Electrical - Power Conversion
Torrance, CA • On-site
Full-time
Medical, PTO
Posted 21 days ago
Job description
About Valar Atomics
At Valar Atomics, we're redefining what's possible in energy. Our mission is to make clean, high-temperature nuclear power scalable-unlocking abundant energy for industry, hydrogen, and next-generation manufacturing. We are a team of builders, engineers, and operators who believe nuclear energy should be fast to deploy, factory-made, and built for the real world. Our first pilot plant in Orangeville, Utah will demonstrate how advanced nuclear systems and fuel fabrication can power the future. Joining Valar Atomics means becoming part of a company where autonomy, ownership, and impact exist at every level.
The Role
Our HTGR power conversion system will be built around a secondary loop Brayton cycle, high-speed turbomachinery operating on helium, sCO2, and even air at extreme temperatures and pressures, paired with development generator sets and a purpose-built test facility program. The Director of IC&E for Power Conversion owns the full instrumentation, control, and electrical architecture across this system: from early R&D and rig design through test facility construction, commissioning, and ultimately integrated plant operation.
This role demands someone who can operate at two levels simultaneously with a hands-on technical authority who understands turbomachinery dynamics, high-speed generator control, and test system instrumentation at a deep level, and a team leader who builds and develops the IC&E organization around the power conversion program. Candidates from oil & gas, aerospace propulsion, industrial turbomachinery, or power generation are strongly preferred. Nuclear background is a plus, not a prerequisite.
Key Responsibilities
Technical Leadership - Turbomachinery & Power Conversion
Test Facility Design, Construction & Commissioning
Program & Team Leadership
Phase Continuity
You Will Be Successful in This Role If
Basic Qualifications
Preferred Skills and Experience
What We Offer
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Valar Atomics is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.
We are committed to providing a workplace free of discrimination and harassment and will provide reasonable accommodation as required by law.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States as a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder).
Salary
$225,000-$300,000 USD
At Valar Atomics, we're redefining what's possible in energy. Our mission is to make clean, high-temperature nuclear power scalable-unlocking abundant energy for industry, hydrogen, and next-generation manufacturing. We are a team of builders, engineers, and operators who believe nuclear energy should be fast to deploy, factory-made, and built for the real world. Our first pilot plant in Orangeville, Utah will demonstrate how advanced nuclear systems and fuel fabrication can power the future. Joining Valar Atomics means becoming part of a company where autonomy, ownership, and impact exist at every level.
The Role
Our HTGR power conversion system will be built around a secondary loop Brayton cycle, high-speed turbomachinery operating on helium, sCO2, and even air at extreme temperatures and pressures, paired with development generator sets and a purpose-built test facility program. The Director of IC&E for Power Conversion owns the full instrumentation, control, and electrical architecture across this system: from early R&D and rig design through test facility construction, commissioning, and ultimately integrated plant operation.
This role demands someone who can operate at two levels simultaneously with a hands-on technical authority who understands turbomachinery dynamics, high-speed generator control, and test system instrumentation at a deep level, and a team leader who builds and develops the IC&E organization around the power conversion program. Candidates from oil & gas, aerospace propulsion, industrial turbomachinery, or power generation are strongly preferred. Nuclear background is a plus, not a prerequisite.
Key Responsibilities
Technical Leadership - Turbomachinery & Power Conversion
- Own the IC&E design basis for the primary to secondary coolant loop Brayton cycle power conversion unit (PCU), including compressor, turbine, recuperator, and intercooler control systems
- Define instrumentation strategy for high-speed rotating machinery - shaft dynamics, vibration monitoring, tip clearance, temperature, pressure, and flow measurement in helium environments
- Develop control system architecture for turbomachinery startup, shutdown, load following, trip logic, and speed/load governing
- Lead IC&E design for development generator sets - excitation systems, voltage regulation, synchronization, protection relays, and grid interface or islanded operation schemes
- Establish electrical power distribution design for the power conversion facility: MV/LV switchgear, variable frequency drives (VFDs), power electronics, and auxiliary systems
Test Facility Design, Construction & Commissioning
- Lead IC&E scope for the design and construction of turbomachinery development and test facilities - from instrumentation layout and data acquisition architecture through facility electrical design
- Own IC&E commissioning planning and execution
- Establish instrumentation calibration programs, measurement uncertainty budgets, and data quality standards for development testing
Program & Team Leadership
- Build, lead, and mentor the power conversion IC&E engineering team across disciplines, controls, instrumentation, electrical, and data systems
- Define team structure, staffing plans, and competency roadmap as the program scales from R&D through construction and commissioning phases
- Manage IC&E scope, schedule, and budget within the broader power conversion program
- Select and manage IC&E vendors, system integrators, and instrumentation suppliers; define qualification, calibration, and acceptance requirements
- Collaborate closely with turbomachinery, mechanical, thermal-hydraulics, systems engineering, and the reactor IC&E team to ensure integrated plant control architecture is coherent across the PCU-reactor interface
Phase Continuity
- Carry IC&E ownership across all power conversion program phases: conceptual design → detailed engineering → test facility procurement and construction → commissioning and integrated testing → reactor plant integration
You Will Be Successful in This Role If
- You enjoy solving first-of-a-kind engineering challenges where there is no existing playbook
- You communicate effectively with executives, regulators, customers, and engineering teams, translating complex technical concepts into clear decisions.
- You thrive in fast-moving environments where priorities evolve, but safety and engineering quality remain uncompromising.
Basic Qualifications
- 15+ years of engineering experience in instrumentation, control systems, and/or electrical design for rotating machinery, turbomachinery, or high-performance industrial systems
- Demonstrated hands-on experience with turbomachinery control systems - speed governing, surge protection, bearing monitoring, trip logic, or equivalent
- Experience leading IC&E scope on test facilities, development rigs, or capital construction projects
- Strong foundation in electrical systems design: switchgear, motor drives, protection and controls, and facility power distribution
- Experience managing IC&E teams and vendor relationships across multiple project phases
Preferred Skills and Experience
- Experience with high-speed generators, excitation systems, and power conversion electronics
- Background in Brayton cycle, gas turbine, or compressor-expander systems
- Familiarity with helium or other working fluid systems and associated instrumentation challenges (low viscosity, high thermal conductivity, leak detection)
- Experience with high-bandwidth data acquisition systems and dynamic measurement in rotating machinery applications
- Nuclear industry experience, commercial, defense, or national laboratory particularly in power conversion or balance-of-plant systems
- Knowledge of relevant standards: API 670 (machinery protection), IEEE 1023 (nuclear BOP control), IEC 61511 (functional safety), NFPA 70/79
- PE license (Instrumentation, Control, or Electrical) a plus
What We Offer
- Competitive base salary
- Equity ownership in a rapidly growing advanced energy company
- Comprehensive medical benefits
- Unlimited PTO
- Free daily lunch and dinner provided onsite
- Generous PPE stipend
- High-impact startup environment with significant ownership and autonomy
- Opportunities for rapid career growth and internal advancement
- Direct collaboration with experienced operators, engineers, and industry leaders
- The opportunity to help build and scale transformative energy technology from the ground up
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Valar Atomics is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.
We are committed to providing a workplace free of discrimination and harassment and will provide reasonable accommodation as required by law.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States as a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder).
Salary
$225,000-$300,000 USD