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Oil Rig Operator Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

NABORS

AUTOMATION ENGINEER II

Houston, TX

Minimum three years of oil and gas industry experience , with working knowledge of drilling rig ... Ability to travel to domestic and international rig-up yards, test yards, and operating drilling ...

National Oilwell Varco

Senior FP&A Analyst

Houston, TX

$78K - $98K/yr

... Rig Technologies NOV is a leading provider of technology, equipment, and services to the global oil ... Prepare, coordinate, and maintain annual operating budgets, quarterly forecasts, and long-range ...

NOV, Inc.

Senior FP&A Analyst

Houston, TX · On-site

$78K - $98K/yr

... Rig Technologies NOV is a leading provider of technology, equipment, and services to the global oil ... Prepare, coordinate, and maintain annual operating budgets, quarterly forecasts, and long-range ...

NOV, Inc.

Senior FP&A Analyst

Houston, TX

$78K - $98K/yr

... Rig Technologies NOV is a leading provider of technology, equipment, and services to the global oil ... Prepare, coordinate, and maintain annual operating budgets, quarterly forecasts, and long-range ...

Beusa Energy Group

Frac Move Tech

The Woodlands, TX · On-site

$18.50 - $23/hr

Follow and enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), lockout/tagout, and environmental ... Equipment Setup and Movement * Assist in the rig up, rig down, and transportation of large bore ...

Evolution Workspace

Frac Move Tech

The Woodlands, TX

$18.50 - $23/hr

Follow and enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), lockout/tagout, and environmental ... Equipment Setup and Movement * Assist in the rig up, rig down, and transportation of large bore ...

Evolution Workspace

Frac Move Tech

The Woodlands, TX · On-site

$18.50 - $23/hr

Follow and enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), lockout/tagout, and environmental ... Equipment Setup and Movement * Assist in the rig up, rig down, and transportation of large bore ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsOil Rig Operator JobsOil Rig Operator Jobs in Houston, TX

Oil Rig Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

$6

$14

$24

How much do oil rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for oil rig operator in Houston, TX is $14.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $8.03 and $19.04 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.

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Oil Rig Operator jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Oil Rig Operator job openings:

Oil Rig Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Oil Rig Operator job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,877 per year, or $14.8 per hour.

Project Manager - Western Hemisphere - Brandt

NOV, Inc.

Houston, TX

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

NOV rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

121st of 499 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Overview
The Project Manager is responsible for planning and executing solids control projects across land and offshore drilling operations. This role ensures equipment, personnel, and services are delivered safely, on time, and in line with customer expectations. The position sits between operations, service technicians, field crews, and the client, with full accountability for project performance.

Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage solids control projects from planning to mobilization through execution.
Coordinate equipment, personnel, and logistics for land and offshore rigs.
Work closely with internal stake holders, 3rd party contractors, drilling contractors, and operators to align on scope and execution.
Monitor daily operations, performance, and cost against plan.
Ensure compliance with all HSE standards and company procedures.
Identify operational risks early and resolve issues in real time.
Manage vendors, transportation, and equipment readiness.
Track project financials including cost control, invoicing, and margin performance.
Provide clear reporting to internal leadership and customers.
Support field teams and step in when escalation is needed.

Requirements
Experience in solids control, drilling fluids, or related oilfield services.
Proven track record managing field operations or projects in oil and gas.
Strong understanding of drilling operations, rig workflows, and equipment.
Ability to operate in high pressure environments with tight timelines.
Strong communication skills with both field personnel and customers.
Willingness to travel to field locations, including offshore as required.

Preferred
Experience with centrifuges, shakers, and related solids control equipment.
Offshore experience and relevant certifications (BOSIET, HUET, etc.).
PMP or equivalent project management training.

Success Looks Like
Safe execution with zero incidents.
Equipment on location and running when the rig needs it.
Minimal non productive time tied to solids control.
Projects delivered on budget with strong margins.
Customers who trust you to solve problems without escalation.

What NOV employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About NOV

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Throughout every region in the world and across every area of drilling and production, our family of companies has provided the technical expertise, advanced equipment and operational support necessary for success. We have the people, capabilities and vision to serve the needs of a challenging and evolving industry. One the world can’t live without. We are a global family of thousands of individuals, working as one team to create lasting impact for ourselves, our customers and the communities where we live and work. We take responsibility for each other and our company’s future, knowing that personal ownership leads to broader success. We believe in purposeful innovation because we see what others do not and we act. Through business innovation, product creation and service delivery, we are driven to power the industry that powers the world better.

Industry

Oil and gas extraction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1841

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