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Oil Rig Work Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

NABORS

RigCLOUD Technician I - California

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$20.50 - $28/hr

Experience with oilfield drilling or service rigs is an asset. * PHYSICAL AND WORK ENVIORNMENT ... Frequent exposure to outdoor elements, drilling rig environments, and electronic devices. * Must be ...

Liberty Lift

Field Service Technician

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

Work with basic hand tools on daily basis * Work outside on a daily basis for long hours, in ... Properly rig materials to be lifted * Complete all required field paperwork for job location and ...

Liberty Lift

Field Service Technician

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

Work with basic hand tools on daily basis * Work outside on a daily basis for long hours, in ... Properly rig materials to be lifted * Complete all required field paperwork for job location and ...

Noble Drilling Services Inc.

Work under the direction of the Crane Operator as necessary to support on-going rig operations. Assist in handling freight to or from helicopters and boats. Implement and uphold safety and ...

53 Stations

Mechanical Design Engineer II (PCS)

Torrance, CA · On-site

$78K - $105K/yr

You will support test rig design and instrumentation placement, then take what the data says about ... Work with Mechanical, Electrical, Safety, and Nuclear teams to ensure the designs meet the overall ...

Pbf Energy

Crane Operator/Rigger Mechanic

Martinez, CA · On-site

$57.54/hr

... oil refineries and related facilities. We have an opportunity at our Martinez Refinery in ... Work Schedule: * Participation in callout/standby coverage * Occasionally an altered work schedule ...

Antares

Mechanical Design Engineer II (PCS)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$81K - $111K/yr

You will support test rig design and instrumentation placement, then take what the data says about ... Work with Mechanical, Electrical, Safety, and Nuclear teams to ensure the designs meet the overall ...

Antares

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer (PCS)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$97K - $133K/yr

You will support test rig design and instrumentation placement, then take what the data says about ... Work with Mechanical, Electrical, Safety, and Nuclear teams to ensure the designs meet the overall ...

PBF Energy

Crane Operator/Rigger Mechanic

Martinez, CA · On-site

$57.54/hr

... oil refineries and related facilities. We have an opportunity at our Martinez Refinery in ... Work Schedule: * Participation in callout/standby coverage * Occasionally an altered work schedule ...

Antares

Mechanical Design Engineer II (PCS)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$115K - $185K/yr

You will support test rig design and instrumentation placement, then take what the data says about ... Work with Mechanical, Electrical, Safety, and Nuclear teams to ensure the designs meet the overall ...

World Oil

Commercial Truck Driver - Class A CDL

Dixon, CA · On-site

$29.62/hr

... Oil Environmental Services we strive to be an employer of choice by recruiting, developing, retaining, a high performing and diverse workforce. As a family-owned company, our focus in work life ...

World Oil

Commercial Truck Driver - Class A CDL

Dixon, CA · On-site

$29.62/hr

... Oil Environmental Services we strive to be an employer of choice by recruiting, developing, retaining, a high performing and diverse workforce. As a family-owned company, our focus in work life ...

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All JobsOil Rig Work JobsOil Rig Work Jobs in California

Oil Rig Work information

See California salary details

$14

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How much do oil rig work jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for oil rig work in California is $22.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $28.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is oil rig work?

Oil rig work refers to a variety of jobs performed on offshore or onshore drilling platforms, where oil and gas are extracted from beneath the earth's surface. Workers on oil rigs may handle equipment, assist with drilling operations, perform maintenance, or ensure safety protocols are followed. The work is often physically demanding and can involve long shifts in challenging environments, but it offers competitive pay and opportunities for advancement. Safety training and certifications are typically required, and workers may spend extended periods away from home.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in oil rig work, and why are they important?

To thrive in Oil Rig Work, you need physical stamina, mechanical aptitude, and a basic understanding of safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant vocational training. Familiarity with drilling equipment, safety certifications such as H2S or Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET), and operating control systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills due to the challenging and collaborative environment. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure operational efficiency, safety, and the ability to respond effectively to emergencies in demanding offshore conditions.

What are some common challenges faced by workers on an oil rig, and how are they addressed?

Oil rig workers often encounter challenges such as long shifts, physical demanding tasks, and extended periods away from home. Safety is a top priority, and rigorous protocols and training are in place to minimize risks associated with hazardous conditions. Teams typically work in rotating shifts to ensure proper rest periods and support, and strong camaraderie is fostered to help crew members cope with the isolation and unique work environment. Employers also provide comprehensive safety gear, regular drills, and mental health resources to support workers’ well-being.

What is the difference between Oil Rig Work vs Oil Platform Technician?

AspectOil Rig WorkOil Platform Technician
CertificationsBasic safety training, H2S, BOSIETSimilar safety certifications, plus technical skills
Work EnvironmentOffshore rigs, harsh conditions, remote locationsOil platforms, on-site maintenance and operations
Job FocusGeneral rig operations, drilling supportEquipment maintenance, troubleshooting, technical repairs
Employer & IndustryOil & gas companies, offshore drillingOil & gas companies, offshore facilities

Oil Rig Work involves general support roles on offshore drilling rigs, focusing on operations and safety. Oil Platform Technicians specialize in maintaining and repairing equipment on oil platforms. Both roles require safety certifications and involve offshore work, but technicians have a more technical focus on equipment maintenance.

How much do you get paid on oil rigs?

Oil rig workers' salaries vary based on experience, role, and location, but they typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually. Entry-level positions like roustabouts may start around $40,000, while specialized roles such as drillers or engineers can earn over $100,000 per year, often with additional shift differentials and overtime pay.

How much does someone get paid to work on an oil rig?

Oil rig workers typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, role, and location. Positions such as roustabouts, roughnecks, and engineers often come with different pay scales, and many workers receive additional compensation for working long shifts and in remote environments.

Is it hard to get hired at an oil rig?

Getting hired for oil rig work can be competitive and often requires relevant experience, physical fitness, and safety certifications such as H2S or BOSIET. Employers look for candidates with technical skills, the ability to work in challenging environments, and a willingness to work long shifts offshore.

What cities in California are hiring for Oil Rig Work jobs?

Cities in California with the most Oil Rig Work job openings:

Oil Rig Work jobs near you
Infographic showing various Oil Rig Work job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,576 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

RigCLOUD Technician I - California

Bakersfield, CA • On-site

NABORS
See more jobs at NABORSexternal

$20.50 - $28/hr

Full-time

Re-posted just now

Job description

The ideal candidate will possess a strong mechanical or electrical background, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to operate independently in high-pressure situations. You will represent the company on the front lines, ensuring optimal performance of our hardware and software solutions on drilling and service rigs.

In addition to traditional field service responsibilities, this role requires foundational IT technician capabilities, including basic networking, system configuration, and technical support for computer-based monitoring equipment.

Nabors is a leading provider of advanced technology for the energy industry. With operations in about 20 countries, Nabors has established a global network of people, technology and equipment to deploy solutions that deliver safe, efficient and responsible hydrocarbon production. By leveraging its core competencies, particularly in drilling, engineering, automation, data science and manufacturing, Nabors aims to innovate the future of energy and enable the transition to a lower carbon world.
Equal Opportunity Employer

Nabors is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibiting discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, religion, age, color, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.  This applies to all terms and conditions of employment including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leave of absence, compensation, and training.  To learn more about our Fair Employment practices, please refer to the Nabors Code of Conduct.
  • Background in electrical, mechanical, or electronic systems is highly desirable.
  • Strong understanding of instrument calibration procedures, pressure/temperature/flow measurement devices, and signal processing.
  • Proficient in the use of multimeters, pressure calibrators, HART communicators, and related diagnostic tools.
  • Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (e.g., Modbus, CANbus, Ethernet/IP).
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills (both verbal and written).
  • Well-developed problem-solving and analytical abilities with a high degree of personal initiative.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision in remote field environments.
  • Comfortable working irregular hours, including long shifts (12+ hours), and being on call.
  • Sales-minded with the ability to recognize opportunities and promote products/services
  • PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Associate degree in electronics, mechanics, or related technical field, or equivalent work experience preferred.
  • Minimum 2+ years of field service or technical experience preferred.
  • Experience with oilfield drilling or service rigs is an asset.
  • PHYSICAL AND WORK ENVIORNMENT:
  • Must be able to lift up to 75lbs and perform physical labor including climbing ladders/stairs and working in confined spaces.
  • Frequent exposure to outdoor elements, drilling rig environments, and electronic devices.
  • Must be able to drive long distances and travel extensively (75%+ travel required).
  • Willingness to work a rotational or extended shift schedule (e.g., 14 days on / 7 days off or 14 days on / 14 days off).

Work Authorization Requirement: Candidates must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Nabors does not provide work visa sponsorship for this position, now or in the future.

  • Install, commission, test, and calibrate company products at customer sites in accordance with safety and quality standards.
  • Provide on-site training to customers on the proper and safe use of equipment and software systems.
  • Perform field upgrades and maintenance of hardware and software components.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues to ensure customer satisfaction.
  • Manage and maintain inventory, company assets, and service documentation.
  • Monitor rig movement and activity in assigned regions; assist with developing customer targeting strategies.
  • Record and report equipment performance, service activities, and customer feedback in company databases.
  • Recommend product or service enhancements by evaluating customer needs and system performance.
  • Provide technical and sales support in collaboration with account management teams.
  • Work closely with Field Leads and other technicians to ensure alignment and service consistency.
  • Adhere to and promote company safety standards and procedures at all times.
  • Other duties as assigned by the supervisor or field support management.

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