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Oil Rig Mechanic Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SIFCO Industries

Maintenance Technician

Orange, CA · On-site

$26 - $32/hr

... mechanical repairs. (High-voltage certification or electrical experience is a plus.) * Safely rig ... Oils, airborne particles, and industrial conditions * Occasional wet or humid conditions

SIFCO Industries

Maintenance Technician

Orange, CA · On-site

$26 - $32/hr

... mechanical repairs. (High-voltage certification or electrical experience is a plus.) * Safely rig ... Oils, airborne particles, and industrial conditions * Occasional wet or humid conditions

MP Materials Corp.

Maintenance Technician

Mountain Pass, CA · On-site

$35.70 - $47.18/hr

The Mechanic must be able to demonstrate proficiency in pump rebuilding, equipment alignment, and ... Must be able to demonstrate the ability to properly rig a 1,000 lb. unbalanced load in a short ...

VPE Thermal LLC

$24 - $28/hr

... mechanical background. As an addition to the team, you will have the opportunity to learn from ... Forklift and rig parts into correct orientation for Plasma Cut * Ability to work long hours on feet ...

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All JobsOil Rig Mechanic JobsOil Rig Mechanic Jobs in California

Oil Rig Mechanic information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$64.1K

$78K

How much do oil rig mechanic jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for oil rig mechanic in California is $64,148.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,700.00 and $71,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an oil rig mechanic do?

As an oil rig mechanic, you work with a gas and oil company perform daily maintenance tasks. Your responsibilities are to repair, install, and maintain well equipment used for drilling. You must also know how to work on the operating pump. Your duties may have you working on hydraulic and pneumatic equipment, maintaining accurate maintenance records, and participating in inventory purchase orders. You work in a team environment, so you may handle various sections or focus on a specific part of the rig. You may also mentor junior mechanics. If this is an off-shore rig, you may spend several weeks at a time away from home.

What does an oil rig mechanic do?

An oil rig mechanic is responsible for maintaining, repairing, and ensuring the safe operation of mechanical equipment on oil rigs, such as engines, pumps, and drilling machinery. They perform regular inspections, troubleshoot mechanical issues, and perform preventative maintenance to minimize downtime. Oil rig mechanics may work on offshore or onshore rigs and must follow strict safety protocols due to the hazardous nature of the environment. Their work is essential for efficient and safe oil extraction operations.

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

To thrive as an Oil Rig Mechanic, you need strong mechanical aptitude, technical troubleshooting skills, and a background in industrial or mechanical engineering, often supported by relevant certifications or vocational training. Familiarity with hydraulic systems, heavy machinery, and maintenance management software is typically required, along with certifications such as HAZMAT, H2S, and offshore safety training. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for this demanding environment. These skills ensure the safety, reliability, and efficiency of critical equipment on oil rigs, minimizing downtime and hazards.

What are some common challenges faced by oil rig mechanics, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Oil Rig Mechanics often work in remote, offshore environments where equipment is subjected to extreme conditions like saltwater exposure, high pressure, and vibration. Common challenges include diagnosing complex mechanical failures under tight time constraints and ensuring all repairs meet rigorous safety standards. To address these challenges, mechanics rely on thorough preventive maintenance routines, clear communication with the rig crew, and ongoing training in the latest technologies and safety protocols. Teamwork and adaptability are essential, as the role often requires collaborating with engineers and other specialists to resolve issues quickly and safely.

What is the difference between Oil Rig Mechanic vs Oil Rig Electrician?

AspectOil Rig MechanicOil Rig Electrician
CertificationsMechanical certifications, such as ASE or equivalentElectrical certifications, such as NABCEP or equivalent
Work EnvironmentMechanical equipment, engines, and hydraulic systems on rigsElectrical systems, wiring, and control panels on rigs
Industry UsageCommonly employed for maintenance and repair of mechanical systemsSpecialized in electrical system installation and troubleshooting

Both Oil Rig Mechanics and Oil Rig Electricians work in offshore environments, maintaining essential equipment on oil rigs. While their roles differ—mechanics focus on mechanical and hydraulic systems, electricians handle electrical systems—they often collaborate to ensure rig safety and efficiency. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the oil industry.

How much do oil rig mechanics get paid?

Oil rig mechanics typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, with experienced workers and those working offshore earning higher wages. Compensation often includes overtime pay, hazard pay, and benefits due to the demanding environment and specialized skills required.
More about Oil Rig Mechanic jobs

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Oil Rig Mechanic jobs?

Cities in California with the most Oil Rig Mechanic job openings:

Oil Rig Mechanic jobs near you
Infographic showing various Oil Rig Mechanic 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 $64,148 per year, or $30.8 per hour.

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

ensignenergy

Bakersfield, CA

$37.80/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operates drilling equipment such as tongs, mud pump, and BOP to support rig operations.

  • Assists in daily maintenance, housekeeping, and safety procedures on the rig.

  • Participates in safety programs, training, and reports unsafe practices or hazards.

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.

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