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Oil Rig Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Key Energy Services

Rig Operator - 1793

Kilgore, TX · On-site

Key Energy Services, LLC has provided services in the oil and gas industry since 1977! We have been ... Here is what Key Rig Operators do: • They work closely with the Supervisor and our valued ...

Ranger Energy Services LLC

Operator-Rig

Belfield, ND · On-site

Operator - Rig SUMMARY The primary duty of the Rig Operator is to work the controls and equipment ... is an oil & gas completion and production solutions company with a foundation built on well ...

Ranger

Operator - Rig

Big Spring, TX · On-site

The Rig Operator supervises crewmembers while rig operations are in process, maintains productivity ... ABOUT THE COMPANY Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions ...

Ranger Energy Services LLC

Operator-Rig

Andrews, TX · On-site

Operator I - Rig SUMMARY The primary duty of the Rig Operator is to work the controls and equipment ... is an oil & gas completion and production solutions company with a foundation built on well ...

Ranger Energy Services LLC

Operator - Rig

Bowie, TX · On-site

Operator I - Rig SUMMARY The primary duty of the Rig Operator is to work the controls and equipment ... is an oil & gas completion and production solutions company with a foundation built on well ...

Ranger Energy Services

Operator - Rig

Odessa, TX

The Rig Operator supervises crewmembers while rig operations are in process, maintains productivity ... ABOUT THE COMPANY Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions ...

Ranger

Operator - Rig

Belfield, ND · On-site

The Rig Operator supervises crewmembers while rig operations are in process, maintains productivity ... ABOUT THE COMPANY Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions ...

Ranger

Operator - Rig

Kilgore, TX · On-site

The Rig Operator supervises crewmembers while rig operations are in process, maintains productivity ... ABOUT THE COMPANY Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions ...

Ranger Energy Services

Operator - Rig

Bowie, TX

The Rig Operator supervises crewmembers while rig operations are in process, maintains productivity ... ABOUT THE COMPANY Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions ...

Ranger Energy Services

Operator - Rig

Artesia, NM

The Rig Operator supervises crewmembers while rig operations are in process, maintains productivity ... ABOUT THE COMPANY Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions ...

Ranger Energy Services LLC

Operator-Rig

Hobbs, NM · On-site

Operator I - Rig SUMMARY The primary duty of the Rig Operator is to work the controls and equipment ... is an oil & gas completion and production solutions company with a foundation built on well ...

Ranger Energy Services LLC

Operator - Rig

Wharton, TX · On-site

Operator I - Rig SUMMARY The primary duty of the Rig Operator is to work the controls and equipment ... is an oil & gas completion and production solutions company with a foundation built on well ...

Ranger Energy Services LLC

Operator-Rig

Williston, ND · On-site

Operator - Rig SUMMARY The primary duty of the Rig Operator is to work the controls and equipment ... is an oil & gas completion and production solutions company with a foundation built on well ...

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Oil Rig Operator information

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How much do oil rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for oil rig operator in the United States is $15.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $8.41 and $19.95 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.
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Oil Rig Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Oil Rig Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,333 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Rig Operator, Dickinson, ND - 2067

Key Energy Services

Dickinson, ND • On-site

Full-time

Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Are you ready to make a difference? Key Energy Services has immediate openings in our Dickinson, ND location for Rig Operators!
Key Energy Services, LLC has provided services in the oil and gas industry since 1977! We have been around for a long time and looking for individuals who want to help us continue to grow into the future!
Our Rig Operators take pride in their crew and their rigs! Are you an experienced Rig Operator that has 2 or more years as an Operator? Are you ready to be a part of a team that values you and your experience? A job as a Rig Operator with Key is just what you have been waiting for!
Job Type
This position is full-time shift work led by a Supervisor.
Here is what Key Rig Operators do:
  • They work closely with the Supervisor and our valued customer to ensure that Key Energy delivers outstanding service quality!
  • Operating a workover rig to perform maintenance and repair services on oil and gas wells is only part of the job, working with a team is the other part! Our Rig Operators look out for the crew and make sure that everyone is following the customer and Key's processes.
  • There are a lot of skills that new employees need to learn! We look to our experienced Rig Operators for their knowledge to teach and train the Short Service Employees (SSE's), and make sure that the other employees are gaining valuable knowledge!
  • Ensures that quality products and services are provided to the customers including maintaining productivity standards for all rig functions, following safety procedures for a safe working environment for all rig employees, and adhering to all applicable governmental regulations for compliance.
  • Ensures efficient maintenance of assigned rig and equipment.
  • Establishes and maintains a positive and safe work environment for the assigned rig crew, including training and coaching them in carrying out their assigned duties on the rig.
  • There are always odds and ends tasks to be done, your Supervisor may be assigned other duties from time to time.

What's in this for you?
  • Key Energy believes that paying people for their hard work and dedication is important. Therefore, we strive to be competitive with wages.
  • We offer training delivered by employees who understand the position and are willing to work to help you succeed! We want to know what your goals for your career with us are, so we developed a career progression program to help you achieve those goals!
  • We have a choice of medical plans, so you can pick the best for you and your family. We also offer dental, vision, short-term, and long-term insurance. Our benefits start the 1st day of the month after you are hired!
  • Are you planning for your future? We offer a 401(K) plan that you can contribute to.
  • No need to run out and buy a bunch of FR work wear! Key will provide you with what you need for your outer layer! We even provide the warm outer clothing for North Dakota winters!

Are you ready? Here is what we need from you:
  • As a front-line leader in the field, we need you to have the experienced skill level in rigging up/rigging down so that you can pass a competency evaluation.
  • Along with the well servicing knowledge, we need you to help effectively lead the crew!
  • The rigs and other equipment need to move! Having a Class B CDL and knowledge to road a rig is a very big bonus!
  • Our working environment is fast paced! We need you to be able to work with the other members of the team to communicate and solve problems. Our customers rely on you too, so we need you to be able to work with them to be able to provide stellar service!
  • We need you to be able to work long hours and a long stretch of days (sometimes these days are holidays).
  • Everyone has rules to follow. We need you to follow our policies, those are our rules!
  • Safety is one of our top priorities! We need you to work safely and watch out for your co-workers. Key and our customers have made this easy for you by putting all the procedures down for you to review.
  • Engagement is Key! We need you to come to work each day ready and engaged so the team can deliver excellent customer service! Your participation in our Job Safety Analysis (JSA) meetings is important so everyone can be on the same page and work safely!
  • Because we care about your safety and the safety of others, we need you to be able to pass a pre-employment WorkSTEPS® physical designed for this position, it is a physical job, so we want to make sure that you can lift heavy objects and stand for long periods of time. A pre-employment drug and alcohol screen are also required.
  • We also need you to have an acceptable criminal and motor vehicle background check.
  • We need you to be able to be able to provide proof that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

Education Requirements:
High school diploma, GED, or the equivalent is preferred.
Key Energy Services, LLC is committed to our policy for Equal Employment Opportunity. This means that we will not discriminate against an applicant or employee based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, marital status, or any other legally recognized protected status under federal, state or local laws, regulations, or ordinances. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, applicants with disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodation under the act or any laws that apply. If you need an accommodation for the application process, please reach out to the HR representative with your needs.
Key Energy Services (Key) is an equal opportunity employer. Key does not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, disability, national origin, age, genetic information, military status, status as a Vietnam-era or special disabled veteran, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local laws.

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