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Oil Rig Worker Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Swift Lumber

Sawmill Relief Machine Operator

Atmore, AL · On-site

$18/hr

Operate automated equipment, such as head rig, saws and planing machines , to cut, trim, and shape ... Clean and oil machinery, clear jams from equipment and conveyors, and perform other routine tasks ...

All JobsOil Rig Worker JobsOil Rig Worker Jobs in Alabama

Oil Rig Worker information

See Alabama salary details

$6

$24

$42

How much do oil rig worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for oil rig worker in Alabama is $24.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.38 and $32.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Oil Rig Worker vs Drilling Engineer?

AspectOil Rig WorkerDrilling Engineer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, safety certificationsEngineering degree, specialized drilling certifications
Work EnvironmentOffshore oil rigs, outdoor, physically demandingOnshore/offshore offices, technical and supervisory
Employer & Industry UsageOil and gas companies, drilling contractorsOil companies, engineering firms, project management

Oil Rig Workers perform hands-on tasks on offshore rigs, focusing on safety and equipment operation. Drilling Engineers plan and oversee drilling operations, requiring technical engineering skills. While both roles are essential in oil extraction, Oil Rig Workers handle physical tasks, whereas Drilling Engineers focus on planning and management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an oil rig worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Oil Rig Worker, you need physical stamina, basic mechanical aptitude, safety awareness, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with heavy machinery, drilling equipment, and safety certifications like H2S and Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET) are highly valued. Teamwork, communication, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are essential soft skills for this demanding environment. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safety, operational efficiency, and the successful execution of complex tasks in challenging offshore conditions.

What does an oil rig worker do?

An oil rig worker is responsible for operating and maintaining the equipment used to extract oil and gas from beneath the earth's surface, either on land or offshore. Their duties include drilling, monitoring machinery, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and performing routine maintenance. Oil rig workers often work long shifts in challenging environments and must be physically fit and safety-conscious. They play a vital role in ensuring the continuous and safe production of energy resources.

What does an oil rig worker do?

As an oil rig worker, your responsibilities involve supporting oil and gas drilling and extraction operations on an offshore oil platform. You may perform a specific job on the rig, or your duties may focus on general labor tasks. Oil rig positions such as a derrickman and driller work directly with the equipment needed to drill and extract the oil. You may also perform other tasks such as catering, cleaning, or providing medical services.

What are some common challenges oil rig workers face during their shifts, and how are they addressed?

Oil rig workers often face challenges such as long hours, physically demanding tasks, and extended periods away from home. The work environment can be harsh, with exposure to extreme weather and the need to adhere to strict safety protocols. To address these challenges, companies typically provide comprehensive safety training, implement rotating shift schedules to manage fatigue, and offer amenities on-site to support worker well-being. Teamwork and clear communication are also emphasized to ensure efficiency and safety on the rig.

How much do oil rig workers make?

Oil rig workers typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and specific roles such as roustabout, roughneck, or driller. Many positions also include overtime pay, hazard pay, and benefits due to the demanding environment and shift schedules.
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Oil Rig Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Oil Rig Worker job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,098 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Sawmill Relief Machine Operator

Swift Lumber

Atmore, AL • On-site

$18/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

The sawmill machine operator trainee will learn the skills to control automated equipment in the sawmill to process timber into lumber, which involves monitoring machinery, ensuring optimal cuts, maintaining equipment, and performing quality control. Key duties include operating saws to cut logs, planing rough lumber to specific dimensions, clearing jams, performing maintenance, and following strict safety protocols to maximize lumber recovery and minimize waste.

Key Responsibilities

  • Machine Operation: Operate automated equipment, such as head rig, saws and planing machines, to cut, trim, and shape logs and rough lumber into finished lumber products of various sizes.
  • Process Monitoring: Monitor equipment performance, lumber flow, and computer screens to ensure machinery is operating efficiently and that cuts meet specifications.
  • Quality Control: Ensure the correct flow of wood, correct orientation of optimization systems, and optimal cutting to maximize recovery and minimize waste.
  • Maintenance: Clean and oil machinery, clear jams from equipment and conveyors, and perform other routine tasks to keep the equipment in working order.
  • Safety: Adhere to strict safety protocols and maintain a safe work environment by following established procedures.

Required Skills

  • Mechanical Aptitude: Ability to understand and operate complex machinery.
  • Attention to Detail: To monitor cuts and ensure quality and precision in processing.
  • Problem-Solving Skills: To identify and resolve issues such as equipment jams or inefficiencies.
  • Physical Stamina: The job can involve a lot of standing and physical work.
  • Safety Consciousness: A strong commitment to safety procedures.

Preferred Skill

  • Head Rig operation experience