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Oil Rig Work Jobs in North Carolina (NOW HIRING)

S. T. Wooten

Certified Crane Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

... properly rig loads for each piece of equipment operated. 3.) Perform the upkeep and general ... continuously work around any or all of the following: noise, dust, heat, cold, oil and heavy ...

S. T. Wooten

Certified Crane Operator

Morrisville, NC · On-site

... properly rig loads for each piece of equipment operated. 3.) Perform the upkeep and general ... continuously work around any or all of the following: noise, dust, heat, cold, oil and heavy ...

ECS Ltd

Driller Helper

Charlotte, NC · On-site

Performing drill rig and support truck maintenance; reporting repair and maintenance issues to the drilling supervisor * Following company safety procedures and guidelines for maintaining a safe work ...

ECS Ltd

Driller Helper

Wilmington, NC · On-site

Performing drill rig and support truck maintenance; reporting repair and maintenance issues to the drilling supervisor * Following company safety procedures and guidelines for maintaining a safe work ...

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All JobsOil Rig Work JobsOil Rig Work Jobs in North Carolina

Oil Rig Work information

See North Carolina salary details

$13

$20

$34

How much do oil rig work jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for oil rig work in North Carolina is $20.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $26.01 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 are popular job titles related to Oil Rig Work jobs in North Carolina?

For Oil Rig Work jobs in North Carolina, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

What cities in North Carolina are hiring for Oil Rig Work jobs?

Cities in North Carolina with the most Oil Rig Work job openings:

Oil Rig Work jobs near you
Infographic showing various Oil Rig Work job openings in North Carolina as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,890 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Vertical Drill Rig Operator

Appalachian Drilling Company LLC

China Grove, NC • On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Appalachian Drilling Company is seeking a highly skilled and safety-focused Drill Rig Operator to join our deep foundations team. In this role, you will be responsible for operating heavy rotary drilling rigs to excavate large diameter drilled shafts (caissons) for commercial, industrial, and infrastructure projects.


Key Responsibilities

  • Rig Operation: Safely and efficiently operate large rotary drilling rigs to excavate large-diameter drilled shafts according to engineering blueprints and project specifications. From 2' to 10' diameters
  • Casing & Slurry: Manage the installation and extraction of temporary or permanent steel casings. Work effectively with wet-hole construction methods, including polymer slurry systems, when required.
  • Equipment Maintenance: Perform daily pre-shift and post-shift equipment inspections. Conduct routine preventative maintenance, grease moving parts, and promptly report any mechanical issues to the maintenance team.
  • Concrete Placement: Coordinate and assist with concrete pouring operations, including the setup of tremie pipes & pump lines.
  • Rebar & Anchor Bolt Setting: Assist in rigging and lowering heavy rebar cages. Accurately set, align, and secure anchor bolts and anchor templates to exact engineering tolerances prior to and during the concrete pour.

Qualifications & Skills

  • Experience: Minimum of [3–5] years of proven experience operating large foundation drilling rigs specifically for drilled shafts/caissons.
  • Technical Knowledge: Strong understanding of drilling techniques through various subsurface conditions (soil, cobble, hard rock, ground water).
  • Certifications: Current OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification preferred. NCCCO Drill Rig Operator certification is a major plus.
  • Driver’s License: Valid driver’s license required. A Class A CDL is highly preferred for moving equipment and materials.
  • Problem-Solving: Ability to read project plans, adapt to changing soil conditions, and troubleshoot minor equipment issues on the fly.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

  • Ability to work safely outdoors in all weather conditions (extreme heat, cold, rain, etc.).
  • Physical stamina to climb on and off heavy machinery, lift up to [50 lbs], and stand or sit for extended periods.
  • Willingness to work long hours, overtime, and occasional weekends as project schedules demand.
  • Willingness to travel to various job sites within the Southeastern US

What We Offer

  • Competitive hourly wage
  • Daily Per Diem
  • Comprehensive benefits package (Health, Dental, Vision).
  • Paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays.
  • Opportunities for ongoing training and career advancement.