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Oil Rig Work Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

F-18 Aircraft Mechanic II with Security Clearance

San Diego, CA · On-site

$30.50 - $40/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Contractor personnel shall rig, adjust, and perform preflight tests on various flight systems ... Fabricates fuel, oil, and vacuum hose lines, makes modifications of aircraft fuel equipment as ...

F-18 Aircraft Mechanic II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$30.50 - $40/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Contractor personnel shall rig, adjust, and perform preflight tests on various flight systems ... Fabricates fuel, oil, and vacuum hose lines, makes modifications of aircraft fuel equipment as ...

F-18 Aircraft Mechanic II

San Diego, CA

$30.50 - $40/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Contractor personnel shall rig, adjust, and perform preflight tests on various flight systems ... Fabricates fuel, oil, and vacuum hose lines, makes modifications of aircraft fuel equipment as ...

Sailboat Rigger

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$22 - $35/hr

You'll need to be deeply familiar with how boats work and what it takes to repair them in order to ... De-rig and rig masts * Install and test mast electrical components * Carry out various repair and ...

P&A Tech II

Santa Paula, CA · On-site

$25/hr

... work instructions. While this is a generic covering all levels of the Field Operator position, all ... More senior roles may have leadership responsibilities at the rig site of other Field Operators.

$24 - $28/hr

Forklift and rig parts into correct orientation for Plasma Cut * Ability to work long hours on feet ... oil/gas, nuclear and renewable energy with state-of-the-art heat exchangers. In addition to ...

P&A Tech II

Santa Paula, CA · On-site

$25/hr

... work instructions. While this is a generic covering all levels of the Field Operator position, all ... More senior roles may have leadership responsibilities at the rig site of other Field Operators.

Maintenance Technician

Orange, CA · On-site

$26 - $32/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Safely rig and move heavy machinery or components using proper lifting and material handling ... Maintain accurate work order documentation and communicate equipment status clearly to supervisors ...

Maintenance Technician

Orange, CA

$26 - $32/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Safely rig and move heavy machinery or components using proper lifting and material handling ... Maintain accurate work order documentation and communicate equipment status clearly to supervisors ...

Showing results 41-60

Oil Rig Work information

See California salary details

$14

$22

$37

How much do oil rig work jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 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.

What job categories do people searching Oil Rig Work jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Oil Rig Work jobs in California are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Oil Rig Work job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,576 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

USC - Truck Driver California

ensignenergy

Bakersfield, CA

$25.50 - $27.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

USC - Truck Driver California

Position Summary

The Bed Truck Driver, Levels 1–3, is responsible for safely transporting drilling rigs and related equipment during rig moves and on-location operations. This role reports to the Truck Pusher and works closely with field, yard, maintenance, and operations personnel to support safe, efficient moves.

Pay Range: Starting pay is $25.50–$27.50 per hour, based on experience.

Internal Relationships

Truck Pusher; other Truck Drivers; Yard Hands; Mechanics; Rig Managers; Yard Office personnel; Service Manager; and Shop Supervisor.

External Relationships

Third-party contractors.

Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities

  • Safety and Compliance: Work in a safe, healthy, and environmentally responsible manner; follow all safety policies, DOT laws, rules, and regulations; identify, report, and correct unsafe work practices or hazards; and participate in all required safety programs, processes, and training.
  • Rig Moves and Equipment Handling: Move drilling rigs and related equipment between current and new locations; follow all load securement requirements; and maintain clear communication with supervisors and Rig Managers throughout each move.
  • Documentation and Records: Keep all required paperwork in the truck and accurately complete trip sheets, interstate mileage records, logbooks, pre-trip inspection records, and other documentation in accordance with Ensign standards.
  • Equipment Care: Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment and perform light maintenance on assigned units.
  • Availability and Training: Travel when and where requested; work long hours, weekends, and short-notice assignments as needed; and attend Operations Training up to two times per year for up to five days per session at designated locations.
  • Additional Duties: Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Level 1 Responsibilities

  • Understands and is proficient in Haul Truck Level 3 duties.
  • Performs pre-trip and post-trip inspections.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of truck capabilities.
  • Checks lines for wear or breakage.
  • Communicates effectively and completes paperwork and logs accurately.

Level 2 Responsibilities

  • Understands and is proficient in Bed Truck Driver Level 1 duties.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of proper bed truck lifting capabilities.
  • Cleans and maintains the truck.
  • Ensures the truck has the proper rigging equipment to perform work safely.
  • Assists in the yard when requested.
  • Responds to after-hours duty calls when needed.
  • Mentors Bed Truck Driver Level 1 employees.

Level 3 Responsibilities

  • Understands and is proficient in Bed Truck Driver Levels 1 and 2 duties.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of where all pieces of equipment are set.
  • Completes required paperwork daily.
  • Assists with other operations as needed.
  • Mentors Bed Truck Driver Levels 1 and 2 employees.

Additional Duties, Responsibilities, and Accountabilities

  • Business Ethics: Understand and apply Ensign’s ethics policy in all business dealings, including contractual agreements and contract negotiations.
  • Business Policies: Understand and follow all Ensign policies, directives, and procedures outlined in the Ensign Company Policy and Basic Directives Handbook for Employees.
  • Certifications and Training: Maintain valid First Aid and CPR certifications, along with any technical and safety certifications required by the company or government agencies; remain current on all OSHA, EUSD, and other required training.
  • Drug-Free Workplace: Comply with Ensign’s drug-free workplace requirements and do not work while under the influence of mind-altering prescription or non-prescription drugs, including alcohol or other drugs of abuse.
  • Occupational Health and Safety: Understand Ensign’s Health and Safety policy; accept responsibility for personal safety and the safety of others; and use required protective clothing and equipment properly.
  • Hazard Reporting: Report any workplace hazard that cannot be self-corrected, as well as any work-related injury, no matter how minor.
  • Manual Handling: Reduce the risk of injury from manual handling tasks by using risk assessment, appropriate mechanical handling equipment, and proper manual handling techniques.

Technical Competencies

  • Able to read and understand all safety and training requirements and materials.
  • Demonstrates basic mechanical and technical knowledge.
  • Communicates effectively, both verbally and in writing.

Behavioral Competencies

  • Works in a manner that protects personal safety and the safety of fellow employees.
  • Maintains professional, effective, and respectful relationships with Ensign employees and suppliers.
  • Continuously develops job-related knowledge and proficiency.
  • Works well as a team member and willingly shares knowledge to help advance the skills of others.
  • Respects the chain of command and follows through on instructions.

Minimum Education and Experience

  • Level 1: High school diploma or GED preferred.
  • Level 2: High school diploma or GED and one year of experience preferred.
  • Level 3: High school diploma or GED and three years of experience preferred.

Qualifications

Employees must meet the following requirements:

  • Be at least 21 years of age, in accordance with USDOT regulations.
  • Pass a post-offer physical examination, fitness testing, safety aptitude test, drug testing, and background check.
  • Provide proof of, and maintain, legal authorization to work in the United States.
  • Arrange reliable transportation to and from work and training locations.
  • Speak and read English well enough to understand verbal and written safety postings, alerts, and announcements; communicate with co-workers; and participate in job safety analysis meetings.
  • Maintain a valid CDL Class A license, preferably with Hazmat and Tanker endorsements, along with a good driving record and medical card.
  • Meet Ensign insurance requirements to drive, including authorization for release of driver records.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: Ensign United States Drilling Inc. is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. Ensign provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by law. Ensign takes affirmative action to employ, advance in employment, and otherwise treat qualified individuals without discrimination, as required by law.