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

Acquire oil and gas leases by contacting mineral and leasehold owners to negotiate the purchase of ... Maintain outside operated wells where the company has interest by researching the company ...

Acquire oil and gas leases by contacting mineral and leasehold owners to negotiate the purchase of ... Maintain outside operated wells where the company has interest by researching the company ...

Our mission is to empower operators with the data, tools, and insights they need to ensure safer ... Participate in all work site/rig-based safety programs * Plan, coordinate, and manage well control ...

Our mission is to empower operators with the data, tools, and insights they need to ensure safer ... Participate in all work site/rig-based safety programs * Plan, coordinate, and manage well control ...

Our mission is to empower operators with the data, tools, and insights they need to ensure safer ... Participate in all work site/rig-based safety programs * Plan, coordinate, and manage well control ...

Our mission is to empower operators with the data, tools, and insights they need to ensure safer ... Participate in all work site/rig-based safety programs * Plan, coordinate, and manage well control ...

Our mission is to empower operators with the data, tools, and insights they need to ensure safer ... Participate in all work site/rig-based safety programs * Plan, coordinate, and manage well control ...

Our mission is to empower operators with the data, tools, and insights they need to ensure safer ... Participate in all work site/rig-based safety programs * Plan, coordinate, and manage well control ...

... including operating and maintaining drilling fluid pumping, treatment, and mixing systems. This ... Checks and monitors oil levels of machinery in mud pump and mud processing rooms. * Maintains ...

Head of Supply Chain 90330

Houston, TX

$173K - $196K/yr

... rig operations. Reporting to the Director of Supply Chain, the role owns the global Supply Chain ... Preferred * 5+ years' experience in oilfield services, drilling, or related manufacturing and ...

... including operating and maintaining drilling fluid pumping, treatment, and mixing systems. This ... Checks and monitors oil levels of machinery in mud pump and mud processing rooms. * Maintains ...

... including operating and maintaining drilling fluid pumping, treatment, and mixing systems. This ... Checks and monitors oil levels of machinery in mud pump and mud processing rooms. * Maintains ...

Minimum 1 year of forklift operating experience. Experience receiving materials and maintaining ... rig equipment. Experience working in oil & gas, industrial, manufacturing, or equipment rental ...

... of oil and gas operations. NOV Rig Technologies makes and supports the world's most advanced ... Mainly operating Mazak Intergrex machine tools and having the ability to edit and program not only ...

... of oil and gas operations. NOV Rig Technologies makes and supports the world's most advanced ... Mainly operating Mazak Intergrex machine tools and having the ability to edit and program not only ...

Mazak Integrex Machinist - 2nd Shift

Houston, TX · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

... of oil and gas operations. NOV Rig Technologies makes and supports the world's most advanced ... Mainly operating Mazak Intergrex machine tools and having the ability to edit and program not only ...

Mazak Integrex Machinist - 2nd Shift

Houston, TX · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

... of oil and gas operations. NOV Rig Technologies makes and supports the world's most advanced ... Mainly operating Mazak Intergrex machine tools and having the ability to edit and program not only ...

Showing results 41-60

Oil Rig Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

$6

$14

$24

How much do oil rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 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 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?

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 specialized roles earning higher wages. Compensation often includes shift differentials, overtime pay, and benefits, reflecting the demanding environment and technical skills required for the job.

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.

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

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

Infographic showing various Oil Rig Operator job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 44% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,877 per year, or $14.8 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


NOV rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

178th of 490 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

NOV is a leading provider of technology, equipment, and services to the global oil and gas industry that supports customers' full-field drilling, completion, and production needs. Since 1862, NOV has pioneered innovations that improve the cost-effectiveness, efficiency, safety, and environmental impact of oil and gas operations. We're continually pushing our own standards higher to deliver the safest, most efficient, and most reliable drilling solutions in the world. Join us as we continue to power the industry that powers the world. NOV Rig Technologies makes and supports the world's most advanced drilling solutions. To learn more about Rig Technologies products and services, please visit us at https://www.nov.com/about/our-company-structure/rig

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Troubleshoot, diagnose and repair equipment and facilities.
  • Perform adjustment of repair of items as required.
  • Perform preventive maintenance duties that detect early signs of failure or maladjustment.
  • Communicate and listen to operators, vendors and other maintenance personnel to ensure production readiness of machines.
  • Work from machine design drawings, specifications and handbooks.
  • Perform other work related tasks as assigned.
  • Comply with all NOV Company and HSE policies and procedures.

FACILITY/GROUP SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Able to lift 45 pounds.
  • Ability to learn on the job and apply.
  • Ability to work with heavy equipment.
  • Performs other work tasks as assigned by the Maintenance Manager.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATIONS

  • Minimum of 3-years of maintenance experience.
  • High school diploma, GED, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

  • Sunday on an as needed basis.
  • Exposed to loud noise while in the warehouse.
  • Exposed to moving parts while on the shop floor.
  • Follows daily work scheduled hours to include working occasional weekends (Saturday and/or 
  • Performs duties as the on-call Maintenance Technician on an as needed basis.
  • Exposed to occasional hot and/or cold weather depending on outside climate conditions and warehouse temperature since the shop floor is neither airconditioned nor heated.

BEHAVIORAL COMPETENCIES

  • Wears proper PPE while in the warehouse.
  • Communicates well with other employees.
  • Works well alone and in team environments.
  • Reads and follows all applicable job related JHA's.
  • Adheres to facilities safety policies and attends all monthly safety training.
  • Attends all Human Resource directed training via classroom or HUB Learning CBT.

TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES

  • Operates both JIB and overhead cranes.
  • Operates Class II & IV Forklifts (Hyster 50 - 170 & Order Picker).
  • Wears a Fall Protection Harness when performing work at heights.
  • Operates Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWP Scissor lift and JLG) Aerial Lifts.

COMPETITIVE BENEFITS: (visit usbenefits.nov.com for more information about our benefits offerings)

  • 401(k) Retirement Plan - NOV matches every dollar up to 5% of base pay and overtime for every dollar you invest.
  • Competitive medical plans that are effective your date of hire. Visit usbenefits.nov.com/cost-for-coverage for more information.
  • FREE MDLIVE virtual visits (when enrolled in an NOV medical plan).
  • FREE preventative medical and dental care for the entire family (when enrolled in an NOV medical/dental plan and seeing an in-network physician).
  • FREE Basic Life and AD&D insurance at 2 times your annual salary (for full-time employees).
  • All regular full-time employees start with 3 weeks of paid vacation per year (prorated based on start date). Pre-NOV relevant experience (years of service) may be considered for vacation accruals.
  • All regular full-time employees receive up to 11 paid holidays per year.

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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