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Oil Rig Operator Jobs in North Dakota (NOW HIRING)

Ability to understand Hazard ID cards and near hit cards, as well as follow standard operating ... ABOUT THE COMPANY Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions ...

Ability to understand Hazard ID cards and near hit cards, as well as follow standard operating ... ABOUT THE COMPANY Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions ...

Relief Operator

Belfield, ND · On-site

$18.50 - $25/hr

Performing services on oil and gas wells as part of a 3/5 person crew of a well service rig ... operating mud pumps * Supervisory level of well control training * Class B CDL license to drive ...

Relief Operator

Williston, ND · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Performing services on oil and gas wells as part of a 3/5 person crew of a well service rig ... operating mud pumps * Supervisory level of well control training * Class B CDL license to drive ...

Operator-Relief

Belfield, ND · On-site

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

Performing services on oil and gas wells as part of a 3/5-person crew of a well service rig ... operating mud pumps * Supervisory level of well control training * Class B CDL license to drive ...

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 ...

Operator-Relief

Williston, ND · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Performing services on oil and gas wells as part of a 3/5-person crew of a well service rig ... operating mud pumps * Supervisory level of well control training * Class B CDL license to drive ...

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 ...

Relief Operator

Belfield, ND · On-site

$18.50 - $25/hr

Performing services on oil and gas wells as part of a 3/5 person crew of a well service rig ... operating mud pumps * Supervisory level of well control training * Class B CDL license to drive ...

Relief Operator

Williston, ND · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Performing services on oil and gas wells as part of a 3/5 person crew of a well service rig ... operating mud pumps * Supervisory level of well control training * Class B CDL license to drive ...

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 ...

ND Relief Operator

Williston, ND · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Relief 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 ...

TX Relief Operator

Williston, ND · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Relief 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 ...

TX Relief Operator

Williston, ND · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Relief 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 ...

ND Relief Operator

Williston, ND · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Relief 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 ...

ND Relief Operator

Williston, ND · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Relief 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 ...

ND Relief Operator

Williston, ND · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Relief 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 ...

Showing results 21-40

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.
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.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Ranger Energy Services rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

162nd of 283 rated repair and maintenance companies


Job description

SUMMARY

The Rig Supervisor manages crew members, maintains productivity standards and works closely with customers ensuring that quality products and services are being safely provided. The Rig Supervisor will need to be able to exhibit working knowledge of all parts on a Workover Rig and should be able to troubleshoot the mechanics of the rig and equipment on site. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

  • Communicates with the management team on the logistics and workflow of rig
  • Works closely with District Manager with regard to the manning and scheduling of the rig, operational, and personnel matters
  • Provides proper guidance and direction to rig crew on job tasks to be performed
  • Performs BOP inspection and testing as needed
  • Assist HSE, DOT, and all other required departments with document management
  • Operates the power swivel, crown and ground saver if needed
  • Accurately perform torque calculations and specs
  • Performs fall protection donning and doffing as required
  • Assist in racking of rod tubing if needed
  • Performs daily operation of the Tong’s if needed
  • Pulls and lays down rods, tubing, casing, and other equipment as needed
  • Responsible for keeping work site, equipment, and tools clean and in good working order
  • Ability to understand Hazard ID cards and near hit cards, as well as follow standard operating procedure for completion of cards
  • Assist in the daily inspection and maintenance of equipment
  • Successfully perform elevator handling, hardline construction, and energy isolation procedures
  • Ensure efficient maintenance and utilization of all equipment
  • Train, mentor and demonstrate proper utilization of down-hole tools, power swivels and compressors
  • Track costs, labor and revenues associated with jobs. Provide weekly cost analysis to the operations manager to ensure budgets components are met, as well as time constraints
  • Maintain and coordinate repair of all equipment and tools
  • Provide technical assistance, supervision and training to other team members on location to ensure work is carried out according to set schedules and procedures
  • Establish and maintain a positive work environment for rig crew, including training and coaching them in carrying out their assigned duties
  • Other duties as assigned

REQUIRED EDUCATION, QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

  • 5-8  years’ of experience working on a well servicing rig preferred
  • Must be able to successfully perform the duties of a rig operator, floor hand, and derrick hand
  • Must be familiar with pump and tank operations
  • Must have a valid state issued driver’s license, CDL, or the ability to obtain one
  • Ability to perform manual labor required to operate well servicing equipment
  • Ability to show knowledge of running tongs and all other Ranger Energy equipment
  • Good communication, people, and leadership skills
  • Must be able to multi-task in a fast-paced environment
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States

COMPUTER

  • Proficient knowledge of MS Office preferred

PRE-EMPLOYMENT REQUIRMENTS

Must complete and pass all required pre-employment screenings. 

ABOUT THE COMPANY

Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions company with a foundation built on well servicing, wireline, and natural gas processing. Ranger Energy is committed to providing employees with a benefits program that is both comprehensive and competitive. The programs are designed to invest in you and the things you care about – your health, your family, and your future. Come join our team of highly skilled, motivated employees, working on state-of-the-art equipment with outstanding compensation and additional benefits, including:

  • Medical/Dental/Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account/Health Savings Account
  • Life Insurance
  • Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with Employer Match
  • PTO (depending on eligibility)

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