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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 ...

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Oil Rig Worker information

See Kansas salary details

$6

$23

$41

How much do oil rig worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 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.

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.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% 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 Floorhand/Derrickhand

Lighthouse Drilling, LLC

El Dorado, KS • On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Position Overview: 
Floorhands & Derrickhands are primarily responsible for performing various manual labor tasks throughout the rig site, including rig up and down activities, general equipment repairs and maintenance on rig components, conducting assigned activities on the rig floor or derrick, assisting with mud-mixing duties, and other various duties. The Floorhand & Derrickhand are responsible for performing these duties safely and efficiently under the direct supervision of the driller or the assistant driller. 
This is a safety-sensitive position.
Major Duties:
  • Performs rig up, down, and operating activities for up to 12+ hours per day.  Based on experience, this position includes catching samples, using of the tongs, slips, and chain  -  connecting and disconnecting drilling pipe, tubular and drilling bits or tools, and checking hoist lines and ropes for blocks.
  • Performs “nipping up or nipping down”.  This includes the monitoring and operation of the shakers.
  • Assist the Derrickman with mud-mixing duties. This includes assisting with the mud pit, mud pump, and chemical sack.
  • Performs general repairs and maintenance on significant and minor rig components.
  • Responsible for housekeeping activities on the drilling rig which includes at a minimum the cleaning of tools, equipment, and rig site. 
  • Performs emergency procedures as needed.
  • Reports safety hazards or maintenance issues to toolpushers, driller, or assistant driller.
  • Other tasks may be assigned as needed.

Requirements: 
  • A valid Driver's License is required.
  • Knowledge of basic mechanical functions.
  • Oilfield industry experience.
  • Must pass pre-employment drug and alcohol screening
  • Must work well with a team (applicants with a good sense of humor are automatically enrolled in the 'employee of the  century' club) 

Preferred (not required):
  • High School diploma, GED, or equivalent education.
  • Clean Driving Record.
  • CDL.
  • 6+ months of previous drilling rig floor and experience.

Physical Requirements:
  • Able to lift, move, or carry up to 125 pounds.  
  • Able to regularly walk and climb stairs up to 30' high.
  • Able to stay alert and attentive for a 12-hour tour while performing sometimes repetitive tasks.
  • Able to repetitively swing 20 lbs sledgehammers as well as torque on wrenches.
  • 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.

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:
Lighthouse Drilling, LLC is a family-owned owned & operated drilling company, with a solid reputation in Central Kansas. Lighthouse offers a family-friendly, enjoyable work atmosphere and provides advancement opportunities for individuals who are humble and hard-working.
Lighthouse Core Values: 
  • Integrity  
  • Safety
  • Performance 

For full-time employees, Lighthouse Provides:
  • Highly competitive salaries
  • Safety Bonuses
  • Advancement Opportunities
  • Per Diem
  • Health Benefits
  • Dental Benefits
  • Vision Benefits
  • Accident Benefits (Aflac)
  • Paid Time Off (starting at 12 months of employment) 
  • 100% Company Match IRA program
  • 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!