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

... Rig Technologies NOV is a leading provider of technology, equipment, and services to the global oil ... operating procedures, inspection criteria, bill of materials and defining final acceptance test ...

Head of Supply Chain 90330

Houston, TX · On-site

$180 - $280/hr

... rig OMCs are supported and trained on Company policies. Lead common management and coordination of procurement processes across operating areas, ensuring adherence to policy and full use of global ...

Python Developer

Houston, TX · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Lab testing of all software with the rig simulator * Provide technical support to field technicians ... Basic understanding ROS (robotic operating system) * Basic understanding of pub/sub protocols like ...

Joining Fervo's Geoblock Factory organization means operating where subsurface innovation meets ... Establish and enforce HSE standards and practices across all rig sites, ensuring full compliance ...

Experience overseeing operational readiness activities including scheduling, mobilization, rig-up ... Experience working directly with oilfield operators, production teams, completions teams, and field ...

Experience overseeing operational readiness activities including scheduling, mobilization, rig-up ... Experience working directly with oilfield operators, production teams, completions teams, and field ...

EOR Project Manager

Houston, TX · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Experience overseeing operational readiness activities including scheduling, mobilization, rig-up ... Experience working directly with oilfield operators, production teams, completions teams, and field ...

Experience overseeing operational readiness activities including scheduling, mobilization, rig-up ... Experience working directly with oilfield operators, production teams, completions teams, and field ...

Provide technical leadership for remote-operated and automated TRS equipment and services. * Act as ... Review customer requirements, well programs, rig interfaces, and project scopes to define safe ...

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 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:

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.

Mechanical Engineer

NOV, Inc.

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 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

About NOV and Rig Technologies

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

  • Provide technical support during remanufacturing process for creating shop routers, standard operating procedures, inspection criteria, bill of materials and defining final acceptance test criteria for all product line.
  • Improve existing repair processes by defining new standards and processes.
  • Provide support on Repair dispositions and to the repair shop as needed while working in line with product engineering in order to streamline repair process definition globally.
  • Review of production standards and procedures.
  • Work with Product Engineering to create Design Verification Reviews and Procedures.
  • Review processes for validating conformance with API, ASME and other applicable standards.
  • Initiate ECR "Engineering Change Request" as needed and provide support during ECN process.
  • Responsible for reviewing/ approving the scope of work on rejected parts or equipment that require additional repair and/or remanufacturing process.
  • Provide dispositions for all non-conformances in a timely manner.
  • Provide engineering support to other remanufacturing locations and strategic supplier in order to make remanufacturing processes more efficient and technically robust.
  • Participate in creation/streamline of best practices and processes to improve quality, productivity, and efficiency.
  • Create, release, and manage repair process and welding drawings.
  • Identify and promote improvement opportunities and work with responsible departments on review and implementation.
  • Pursue continuous improvement in all activities and operations.
  • Comply with all NOV Company policies and procedures established by the Quality Management System, HSE, as well as all other corporate guidelines.
  • Perform other work-related tasks as assigned.

FACILITY/GROUP SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Be readily available to respond to questions from Bammel Repair departments regarding the overhaul and repair of NOV equipment.
  • Liaise between Product Engineering and Repair departments to evaluate equipment condition and repair processes.
  • Assist with the definition of acceptance criteria and preparation of corresponding customer acceptance testing documentation as required.
  • Assist with inspections and evaluations of equipment to be overhauled or repaired by Bammel Repair.
  • Provide technical expertise in regards to determination of suitable alternate materials and processes to facilitate repairs and overhauls of NOV equipment.
  • Follow department processes and procedures.
  • Other activities as assigned by supervisor.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Metallurgy or Manufacturing Engineering.
  • 3-5 years of experience in heavy mechanical equipment industry preferably oil and gas.
  • Location 5100 N. Sam Houston Pkwy, Houston TX. 77086.
  • Experience with AutoCAD, Solid Works and PTC Creo Elements/Pro and Team Center.
  • API, AWS, ASME codes experience is highly preferred (API - Q1, 6A, 16A, 16AR, 16D, 8B, AWS - D1.1, ASME BPVC Section VIII & IX)
  • Experience using MS Office Suite.
  • A solid aptitude of Metallurgy, GD&T, Machine Design, Hydraulics is necessary.
  • Strong mathematical & analytical skills.
  • Solid understanding of project cost calculations/accounting.
  • Basic understanding of electrical circuits, power engineering, instrumentation and electronics is preferred.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

  • Available as needed for project support outside of regular business hours.
  • Work in shop environment along with office work.

BEHAVIORAL COMPETENCIES

  • Work well as a team member.
  • Good communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Maintain focus in a highly dynamic environment.

TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES

  • Computer literacy (including good command of Microsoft Excel, Word and Outlook).
  • CAD Software Literate (such as AutoCAD, ProE, or SolidWorks)

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.

What NOV employees say

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NOV logo

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