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Oil Rig Mechanic Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Overview The Rig-Up Specialist is responsible for installing, maintaining, and operating lay flat ... The ideal candidate has hands-on oilfield experience, strong mechanical skills, and the ability to ...

Overview The Rig-Up Specialist is responsible for installing, maintaining, and operating lay flat ... The ideal candidate has hands-on oilfield experience, strong mechanical skills, and the ability to ...

Basic mechanical skills and understanding of rig equipment * Physical ability to handle demanding tasks in various environmental conditions. * Strong communication skills and teamwork orientation.

Basic mechanical skills and understanding of rig equipment * Physical ability to handle demanding tasks in various environmental conditions. * Strong communication skills and teamwork orientation.

High School Diploma/GED * 1+ years Experience Working on a drilling rig or in the oilfield rigging up and rigging down Preferred: * Strong work ethic * Mechanical aptitude * Familiar with hand/power ...

... the Oil & Gas industry High School Diploma PREFERRED Technical Certificate from accredited ... Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to work with tools and equipment * Understanding of safety ...

High School Diploma/GED * 1+ years Experience Working on a drilling rig or in the oilfield rigging up and rigging down Preferred: * Strong work ethic * Mechanical aptitude * Familiar with hand/power ...

Safely inspect, troubleshoot, and repair rig and oilfield equipment, applying advanced mechanical knowledge to diagnose issues and restore equipment to safe operating condition * Perform scheduled ...

Assists mechanics, electricians, welders, forklift drivers and derrickhands. * Relieves floorhands ... Inside enclosed oil rig and outside in elements. Hazardous conditions may include a wet, oily, icy ...

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Oil Rig Mechanic information

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$49.5K

$65K

$79K

How much do oil rig mechanic jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for oil rig mechanic in the United States is $65,000.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,500.00 and $72,500.00 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Oil Rig Mechanic, and why are they important?

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.

What cities are hiring for Oil Rig Mechanic jobs? Cities with the most Oil Rig Mechanic job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Oil Rig Mechanic jobs? The most popular types of Oil Rig Mechanic jobs are:
What states have the most Oil Rig Mechanic jobs? States with the most job openings for Oil Rig Mechanic jobs include:
Infographic showing various Oil Rig Mechanic job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 78% Physical, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,000 per year, or $31.2 per hour.
Rig Up Specialist

Rig Up Specialist

Danos, LLC

Orla, TX • On-site

Other

Posted 14 days ago


Danos rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th of 74 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

Overview
The Rig-Up Specialist is responsible for installing, maintaining, and operating lay flat water line systems used to transport water to and from wellsite locations. This role primarily supports water transfer operations, ensuring efficient and safe movement of water between sources and frac or tubing operations. The ideal candidate has hands-on oilfield experience, strong mechanical skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced field environment.
Responsibilities
  • Install, connect, and maintain lay flat water lines for water transfer operations
  • Run water lines from source locations to wellsites, ensuring proper routing and secure connections
  • Monitor water transfer systems and adjust flow as needed to support operations
  • Assist with rig-up and rig-down of pumps, hoses, and related water transfer equipment
  • Inspect lines, fittings, and connections to prevent leaks or failures
  • Coordinate with frac and tubing crews to ensure water supply meets operational needs
  • Operate and assist with equipment used in water transfer, including pumps and support equipment
  • Perform basic troubleshooting and maintenance on water transfer systems
  • Maintain a clean and safe work environment in compliance with all safety policies
  • Assist with loading, unloading, and transporting equipment as needed

Qualifications
  • 1+ years of oilfield experience, in water transfer or rig-up operations required.
  • Experience working with lay flat hose and water transfer systems required.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to work with hoses, pumps, and fittings
  • Experience operating skid steer and/or man lift (sky lift) is a required.
  • Bilingual (English/Spanish) is a plus
  • Valid driver's license with a clean driving record
  • Ability to lift 50+ lbs and work in physically demanding conditions
  • Willingness to work long hours, rotational schedules, and travel as needed
  • Basic safety certifications (PEC Safeland, H2S) preferred
  • Must meet conditional job offer requirements including background, drug test, MVR check, fit for duty and agility.

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