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Oil Rig Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

TETRA Technologies

Rig Up Operator

Midland, TX · On-site

In addition to providing products and services to the oil and gas industry and calcium chloride for ... Assists in the Rig up and Rig Down of a job and in the cleanup, repair, and preparation of the ...

TETRA Technologies

Rig Up Operator

Midland, TX · On-site

In addition to providing products and services to the oil and gas industry and calcium chloride for ... Assists in the Rig up and Rig Down of a job and in the cleanup, repair, and preparation of the ...

TETRA Technologies

Rig Up Operator

Pleasanton, TX · On-site

In addition to providing products and services to the oil and gas industry and calcium chloride for ... Assists in the Rig up and Rig Down of a job and in the cleanup, repair, and preparation of the ...

TETRA Technologies

Rig Up Operator

Pleasanton, TX · On-site

In addition to providing products and services to the oil and gas industry and calcium chloride for ... Assists in the Rig up and Rig Down of a job and in the cleanup, repair, and preparation of the ...

Ranger Energy Services LLC

Supervisor - Rig

Bowie, TX · On-site

Ability to understand Hazard ID cards and near hit cards, as well as follow standard operating ... is an oil & gas completion and production solutions company with a foundation built on well ...

Ranger Energy Services

Supervisor - Rig

Odessa, TX

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 ...

Ranger Energy Services LLC

Supervisor-Rig

Midland, TX · On-site

Ability to understand Hazard ID cards and near hit cards, as well as follow standard operating ... is an oil & gas completion and production solutions company with a foundation built on well ...

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All JobsOil Rig Operator JobsOil Rig Operator Jobs in Texas

Oil Rig Operator information

See Texas salary details

$6

$14

$24

How much do oil rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for oil rig operator in Texas is $14.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $7.84 and $18.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Oil rig operators can earn around $2,000 or more per day, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and working offshore in remote environments. High-paying roles often require certifications, physical endurance, and the ability to work long shifts in challenging conditions.

Is it hard to get hired at an oil rig?

Getting hired as an oil rig operator can be competitive and requires relevant experience, certifications, and physical fitness. Employers often look for technical skills, safety training, and the ability to work in challenging environments, which can make the hiring process rigorous.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Oil Rig Operator, and why are they important?

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.

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 high-demand areas earning higher wages. Compensation often includes shift differentials, overtime pay, and benefits due to the demanding environment and specialized skills required.

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.

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.

How much do you get paid on oil rigs?

Oil rig operators typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, with experienced workers and those working offshore or in high-demand areas earning higher wages. Compensation often includes shift differentials, overtime pay, and benefits, and requires technical skills and safety certifications.
What cities in Texas are hiring for Oil Rig Operator jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Oil Rig Operator job openings:
Oil Rig Operator jobs near you
P&A - Operator - Rig

P&A - Operator - Rig

Ranger Energy Services LLC

Midland, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Ranger Energy Services rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

172nd of 218 rated repair and maintenance companies

Job description

Operator I - Rig
SUMMARY
The primary duty of the Rig Operator is to work the controls and equipment on a rig. The Rig Operator supervises crewmembers while rig operations are in process, maintains productivity standards, and works closely with customer representatives to provide safe, reliable, and quality service.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Promote RES concept of Stop Work Accountability
  • Promote RES safety policies and procedures
  • Perform Meet and Greet at location sites
  • Be aware of Simultaneous Operations and able to coordinate vendor and contractor groups on location as needed
  • Operate the rig safely during rig up/down and pulling operations
  • Operate the crown and ground saver
  • Check brake systems and confirm functionality
  • Pull and lay down rods, tubing, casing, and other equipment as needed
  • Understands job steps and arranges rods and tubing in derrick correctly
  • Understand the rig's hydraulic, pneumatic and electrical systems
  • Perform all required equipment inspections-workover rig, fall arrest system, derrick, hoisting and mud pump
  • Able to instruct floor and derrick hands in use of all safety equipment
  • Able to instruct the floor and derrick hand in use of all rig and pumping equipment
  • Operate the power swivel
  • Perform Blowout Preventer (BOP) inspection, testing and installation as needed
  • Assist HSE, DOT, and all other applicable departments with document completion, collection, and management
  • Complete field tickets in a timely manner and turn in to appropriate department for processing
  • Troubleshoot maintenance issues; to include performing worn equipment recognition checks and turning in maintenance requests for repair or replacement of equipment as needed
  • Accurately perform torque calculations and specs
  • Oversee JSA/DWP and tail gate meetings as scheduled
  • Oversee pipe tallying, rigging up and down, nipple up and down of BOP units, and pipe handling
  • Responsible for keeping work site, equipment, and tools clean and in good working order
  • Oversee day to day lubrication and minor adjustments of equipment
  • Oversee use of Hazard ID programs and means of documenting hazards
  • Oversee daily inspection and maintenance of equipment
  • Perform and oversee energy isolation procedures
  • Train and mentor crew members on day to day operations
  • Responsible to stop work if conditions are unsafe and report concerns immediately
  • Report all incidents as per the standard operating procedures
  • Other duties as assigned

REQUIRED EDUCATION, QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
  • High school diploma or equivalent, preferred
  • Seven (7) years' of experience working on a well servicing rig preferred
  • 5 years of experience working on a well servicing rig preferred
  • 2 years of experience as a relief operator preferred
  • Must be able to successfully perform the duties of a Floor Hand III 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
  • Competent communication, people, and leadership skills
  • Must be able to multi-task in a fast-paced environment
  • Must have understanding of workover/completions operations
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule

COMPUTER
  • Basic knowledge of MS Office preferred
  • Able to use the company's HSE Management Platforms

PRE-EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS
  • Must complete and pass all required pre-employment drug 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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