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Oil Rig Worker Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

AJ's Services

Pipe Tester

El Dorado, KS · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

... hard-working. Position Overview : Carries out a variety of physical activities on the well ... Assists in servicing of gas and oil wells; transports rig and other vehicles to locations, rigs up ...

All JobsOil Rig Worker JobsOil Rig Worker Jobs in Kansas

Oil Rig Worker information

See Kansas salary details

$6

$23

$41

How much do oil rig worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for oil rig worker in Kansas is $23.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $32.36 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.

How much does a person on an oil rig get paid?

Oil rig workers' salaries vary based on experience, role, and location, but they typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually. Skilled positions such as drillers and engineers tend to earn higher wages, often supplemented by offshore hazard pay and shift differentials. Many workers also receive benefits like housing, meals, and safety training.

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.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

Oil rig workers can earn $10,000 or more per month, especially those with experience in offshore drilling, safety certifications, and working long shifts. High-paying roles often require physical stamina, technical skills, and the ability to work in challenging environments, but they typically do not require a college degree.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Oil rig workers, especially those in senior or specialized roles such as drillers or offshore supervisors, can earn around $2,000 or more per day due to the demanding environment, skills required, and overtime pay. High-paying roles often require extensive experience, certifications, and working in remote offshore locations for extended periods.

How much do oil rig workers make?

Oil rig workers typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and role. Skilled positions such as drillers and engineers tend to have higher salaries, and workers often receive additional compensation for overtime and hazardous conditions.
More about Oil Rig Worker jobs
What are popular job titles related to Oil Rig Worker jobs in Kansas? For Oil Rig Worker jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Oil Rig Worker jobs in Kansas look for? The top searched job categories for Oil Rig Worker jobs in Kansas are:
Oil Rig Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Oil Rig Worker job openings in Kansas as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,294 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Drilling Rig Operator

Lighthouse Drilling, LLC

El Dorado, KS • On-site

$26 - $29/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Position Overview:

Operators lead a three-to-five-person rig crew while safely operating drilling rig components. This is a safety-sensitive position. They are responsible for rig up and down activities, general equipment repairs, and maintenance of rig components. Operators conduct safety meetings and assign activities on the rig floor or derrick. They supervise the mud-mixing duties and other duties performed by floor hands & derrick hands. Operators are responsible for their crew performing these duties safely and efficiently.
This is a safety-sensitive position.
Major Duties:
  • Ensures all crew members are at the rig and prepared to work at the scheduled time.
  • Performs routine operating functions and troubleshooting on all equipment with direction from operation personnel and the client company representative.
  • Operates the draw works and assesses downhole conditions and well pressures.
  • Handles jack stands and instructs crew on securing the guy wires.
  • Provides operating reports (via Pason) to the Field Supervisor-Rigs or Toolpusher.
  • Tested and monitored equipment using correct procedures.
  • Trained and directed the crew on safety and job procedures.
  • Establishes daily maintenance & housekeeping program for the rig.
  • Oversees the setting up, taking down, and transportation of drilling rigs & equipment.
  • May be requested to work outside of regular work schedule to meet customer needs.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Basic Requirements:
  • We expect more out of our drillers than most contractors. We need them to be driven and able to direct crew members to work hard.
  • We also expect our Drillers to lead by example via. their good work ethic.
  • Previous Drilling Experience on a Kelly Drive Rig.
  • A valid Driver's License is required (CDL Preferred but not required).
  • Knowledge of basic mechanical functions.
  • Oilfield industry experience.
  • Must pass pre-employment drug and alcohol screening & background check.
  • Able to work well with & lead a team 

Preferred (not required):
  • High School diploma, GED, or equivalent education.
  • Clean Driving Record.
  • CDL.
  • 2+ years of previous drilling rig operations experience (required).

Physical Requirements:
  • Able to lift, move, or carry up to 85 pounds.
  • Able to regularly walk and climb stairs up to 15' high.
  • Able to stay alert and attentive for a 12-hour tour while performing sometimes repetitive tasks.
  • Able to open/close valves requiring upwards of 160 lbs of torque.
  • Able to pull drill slips with another employee and latch/unlatch tongs.
  • Able to listen for unusual noises that signify equipment and machinery problems.

Mental Alertness Requirements:
  • Work in a constant state of alertness and sin a afe manner.
  • Have, display & maintain the ability to perform tasks involving high levels of cognitive function and judgment.
  • Not being mentally or physically impaired from any cause can adversely affect an employee’s ability to safely and completely perform the duties of the position.
  • Have, display & maintain the ability to cope with sudden changes in surroundings and/or emergencies and/or alarms.
  • Have, display & maintain, and demonstrate a caring, committed, and concerned attitude about personal and crewmember safety.

Typical working conditions and hazards:
  • Work is performed in all weather conditions.
  • Able to perform duties with protective equipment.
  • Potential hazards include working near or with heavy tools and moving machinery.
  • Occasional work will be done on slick surfaces due to weather, drilling mud, or oil/grease.

Not Your Typical Drilling Company:
Founded in 2018, Lighthouse Drilling, LLC is a family-owned and & operated drilling company with a quickly growing reputation in Central Kansas, Northern Oklahoma, and Southern Nebraska. Lighthouse offers a family-friendly, enjoyable work atmosphere and provides advancement opportunities for individuals who are humble and hard-working.
Core Values:

Integrity  - Safety  - Performance

Our motto is "Excellence in Drilling" and we mean it.
For full-time employees, Lighthouse provides:
  • Highly competitive salaries
  • Company Driver (Pickup Truck) 
  • Advancement Opportunities
  • Per Diem
  • Health Benefits
  • Dental Benefits
  • Vision Benefits
  • Paid Time Off (starting at 12 months of employment)
  • 100% company-matched IRA program
  • Annual allowance for work clothes 
  • Annual Reimbursements for Gear / Boots & Overalls
  • Performance-based bonuses & incentives
  • Company Uniforms
  • Paid Holidays 

Drug-Free Environment - Consistent Work Schedule - Lots of Overtime Available - Established and Growing Company.
Check out our website: www.LighthouseDrilling.com
Thanks!