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Oil Rig Operator Jobs in North Dakota (NOW HIRING)

AXI Education Solutions

Rig Operator

Williston, ND · On-site

The Rig Operator, reporting to the assigned Tool Pusher, leads a 4-5-person workover rig crew, and ... Work outdoors in all weather conditions, including temperature extremes, around oil and gas well ...

AXI Education Solutions

Relief Rig Operator

Marmarth, ND · On-site

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

In the absence of the Rig Operator, the Relief Operator will perform all duties and ... Knowledge and experience in oilfield well servicing is required. * Must possess CDL B driver ...

Ranger

Operator - Rig

Belfield, ND · On-site

The Rig Operator supervises crewmembers while rig operations are in process, maintains productivity ... ABOUT THE COMPANY Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions ...

Ranger Energy Services LLC

Operator-Rig

Belfield, ND · On-site

Operator - Rig SUMMARY The primary duty of the Rig Operator is to work the controls and equipment ... is an oil & gas completion and production solutions company with a foundation built on well ...

Ranger Energy Services LLC

Operator-Rig

Williston, ND · On-site

Operator - Rig SUMMARY The primary duty of the Rig Operator is to work the controls and equipment ... is an oil & gas completion and production solutions company with a foundation built on well ...

Ranger Energy Services

Operator - Rig

Williston, ND · On-site

The Rig Operator supervises crewmembers while rig operations are in process, maintains productivity ... ABOUT THE COMPANY Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions ...

Ranger Energy Services

Operator - Rig

Belfield, ND · On-site

The Rig Operator supervises crewmembers while rig operations are in process, maintains productivity ... ABOUT THE COMPANY Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions ...

Ranger

Operator - Rig

Williston, ND · On-site

The Rig Operator supervises crewmembers while rig operations are in process, maintains productivity ... ABOUT THE COMPANY Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions ...

Steel Energy Services Ltd

TX Operator

Williston, ND · On-site

Operators' duties also include cleaning, fueling, repairing, and maintaining workover rig equipment to include greasing, changing oils and lubricants as needed and on a regularly scheduled basis. JOB ...

Steel Partners

TX Operator

Williston, ND · On-site

Operators' duties also include cleaning, fueling, repairing, and maintaining workover rig equipment to include greasing, changing oils and lubricants as needed and on a regularly scheduled basis. JOB ...

Steel Energy Services Ltd

ND Operator

Williston, ND · On-site

Operators' duties also include cleaning, fueling, repairing, and maintaining workover rig equipment to include greasing, changing oils and lubricants as needed and on a regularly scheduled basis. JOB ...

Steel Energy Services Ltd

ND Operator

Williston, ND · On-site

Operators' duties also include cleaning, fueling, repairing, and maintaining workover rig equipment to include greasing, changing oils and lubricants as needed and on a regularly scheduled basis. JOB ...

Steel Partners

ND Operator

Williston, ND · On-site

Operators' duties also include cleaning, fueling, repairing, and maintaining workover rig equipment to include greasing, changing oils and lubricants as needed and on a regularly scheduled basis. JOB ...

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All JobsOil Rig Operator JobsOil Rig Operator Jobs in North Dakota

Oil Rig Operator information

See North Dakota salary details

$7

$16

$27

How much do oil rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for oil rig operator in North Dakota is $16.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $8.89 and $21.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an oil rig operator do?

An Oil Rig Operator is responsible for overseeing the daily operations on an oil drilling rig, ensuring that drilling activities are conducted safely and efficiently. They manage the rig crew, monitor drilling equipment, and coordinate with engineers to achieve production targets. Operators are also tasked with troubleshooting mechanical issues, maintaining safety protocols, and keeping accurate records of drilling progress. Their role is critical in the extraction of oil and gas from underground reservoirs.

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

To thrive as an Oil Rig Operator, you need a solid understanding of drilling operations, equipment maintenance, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant technical training. Familiarity with drilling control systems, heavy machinery, and certifications such as Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET) are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and the ability to stay calm under pressure help operators excel in challenging offshore environments. These skills are vital for ensuring safe, efficient operations and minimizing risks on the oil rig.

What are some common challenges oil rig operators face when working offshore, and how can they prepare for them?

Oil Rig Operators working offshore often encounter challenges such as extended periods away from home, working in harsh weather conditions, and adhering to strict safety protocols. The work environment is physically demanding and requires operators to be vigilant and adaptable, as operational needs can change rapidly. To prepare, it's important to develop resilience, maintain physical fitness, and complete all required safety and technical training. Building strong communication skills also helps operators effectively collaborate with their crew and respond to emergencies.

What is the difference between Oil Rig Operator vs Drilling Technician?

AspectOil Rig OperatorDrilling Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, technical trainingHigh school diploma, safety certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentOffshore oil rigs, on-site operationsOffshore rigs, drilling sites, maintenance areas
Job RoleOperates and monitors drilling equipment, ensures safety protocolsAssists with drilling operations, maintains equipment, troubleshooting

Oil Rig Operators and Drilling Technicians share similar credentials and work environments, often collaborating on offshore rigs. While Oil Rig Operators focus on operating drilling machinery and overseeing safety, Drilling Technicians assist with technical tasks and equipment maintenance. Both roles are essential for efficient drilling operations in the oil industry.

How much money do oil rig operators make?

Oil rig operators typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, with experienced workers and those working offshore or in specialized roles earning higher wages. Compensation often includes shift differentials, overtime pay, and benefits due to the demanding environment and required certifications.
Oil Rig Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Oil Rig Operator job openings in North Dakota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,211 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Rig Operator

AXI Education Solutions

Williston, ND • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Perform and safely operate well workover components and services according to company procedures and customer requirements.

  • Inspect, maintain, and operate the assigned workover rig, including setting up, taking down, and transporting the rig.

  • Support the workover crew by performing operating functions, troubleshooting equipment, and ensuring safety procedures are followed.

Job description

***This job has preference to qualified local job seekers within 60 miles of Axis Williston, ND facility.
The Rig Operator, reporting to the assigned Tool Pusher, leads a 4-5-person workover rig crew, and is responsible for performing and safely operating well workover components and services. The primary responsibilities include and is not limited to preparation of crew members, inspection, maintenance, and operations of assigned workover rig, in accordance with company procedures and customer requirements. Additional functions may be specified by the assigned Tool Pusher or other designated operations management. All duties are expected to be performed safely and effectively to maximize the safety of the entire crew while meeting customer expectations and being a solution to their projects by Axis operating safety and performance standards.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:
  • Confirms all scheduled shift times that the full crew are prepared for work at the assigned rig.
  • Supports the workover crew and is responsible for performing operating functions, including driving the workover rig as necessary to the job site, with direction from the field supervisor/Tool Pusher, and/or the customer company representative.
  • Inspects the setting up, taking down and transportation of the assigned workover rig.
  • Conducts routine inspection and troubleshooting on all service equipment.
  • Monitors, tests, installs, lifts, and removes equipment using proper job and safety procedures.
  • May train and direct the crew on safety and job procedures.
  • Handles job safety analysis and daily maintenance program for the rig, ensuring the crew understands the programs and procedures.
  • May be requested to work outside of the assigned work schedule to meet customer needs.
  • Depending on project and rig assignment, may be required to perform other functional duties as assigned by Tool Pusher/Field Supervisor

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)
  • High school diploma, GED, or the equivalent.
  • Must have valid state issued driver license with acceptable motor vehicle records (MVR); Class A or B CDL a plus/preferred.
  • Required five (5) years of workover rig experience; production experience a plus; minimum two (2) years Rig Operator experience required and at least two (2) years (prefer 3 years) operational and safety experience as a Derrick Hand and Floor Hand required.
  • Working knowledge of basic service mechanical functions.
  • Ability to access the work environment by use of a ladder at heights of 50 ft. or more.
  • Long periods of standing, squatting, kneeling, reaching or similar activities may be necessary.
  • Able to perform duties with protective equipment, H2S respirator where required; potential hazards include working near or with heavy tools and moving machinery.
  • Must be able to travel as job requires.
  • Work may be performed in all weather conditions.
  • Ability to effectively communicate, both verbally and written; English preferred.
  • Ability to interact with others in a team environment and work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks at once.
  • Basic problem solving and organizational skills.
  • Excellent customer service skills, to provide world class value to Axis customers.
  • Have dependable form of communication - cell phone preferred.
  • Dependable transportation.
  • Ability for qualified clearance on background checks, pre-employment drug and alcohol and job-relevant screens.

Physical Demands and Work Environment
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions.
  • Frequently lift and carry up to 50 lbs.; team lift up to 100 lbs. as required for rig operations, equipment handling, and job-site support.
  • Stand approximately 7 hours, walk approximately 3 hours, and sit approximately 2 hours during a typical 12-hour shift.
  • Frequently bend, kneel, climb, push, pull, and perform manual handling activities while rigging up/down, inspecting equipment, and supporting workover operations.
  • Climb ladders and access work areas at heights up to 50 ft. or more, including workover rig structures and related service equipment.
  • Safely operate and handle workover rig equipment, hand tools, and service equipment; demonstrate grip strength of approximately 80-100 lbs. for tool and equipment operation.
  • Work outdoors in all weather conditions, including temperature extremes, around oil and gas well sites and heavy/moving machinery.
  • Work in high-noise environments requiring adequate hearing, communication awareness, and use of required hearing protection and other job-specific PPE.
  • Travel approximately 75% and work a typical 14/7 rotation schedule, subject to customer, district, and operational needs.
  • Maintain adequate vision, hearing, mobility, strength, and stamina to safely perform essential functions and communicate in hazardous oilfield operating environments.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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