1

Oil Rig Worker Jobs in Nevada (NOW HIRING)

Driller - NV Surface RC

Elko, NV · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

... rig-down and site moves; fuel equipment and perform basic operator/PM service (greasing, oil ... and co-workers that you work with. * You will be responsible for the general condition and ...

... rig, align, move and setup machinery or equipment. 7. Follow plans/blueprints to verify material ... There is exposure to fuels, oils, cleaning solvents and fumes from machinery. Safety glasses must ...

Oil Rig Worker information

See Nevada salary details

$7

$27

$47

How much do oil rig worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for oil rig worker in Nevada is $27.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $36.97 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.
What are popular job titles related to Oil Rig Worker jobs in Nevada? For Oil Rig Worker jobs in Nevada, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Oil Rig Worker jobs in Nevada look for? The top searched job categories for Oil Rig Worker jobs in Nevada are:
What cities in Nevada are hiring for Oil Rig Worker jobs? Cities in Nevada with the most Oil Rig Worker job openings:
Infographic showing various Oil Rig Worker job openings in Nevada as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,284 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Driller - NV Surface RC

Boart Longyear

Elko, NV • On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 26 days ago


Boart Longyear rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 40 rated mining


Job description

SURFACE DRILLER - LEAD WITH SAFETY, GROW WITH STABILITY
Safety, Stability & Financial Security: For over 135 years, Boart Longyear has helped people build safe, stable careers with the opportunity to support their families and plan for secure futures.
You've mastered the rig. Now choose the employer that matches your standards. Join the team that runs reliable equipment, provides opportunities for growth, and sets a clear ladder from Lead Driller ➞ Field Supervisor ➞ Leadership - without forcing you behind a desk 24/7. Boart Longyear achieves drilling excellence by prioritizing our people. Reliable schedules, strong safety standards, and benefits designed for families - so you can focus on what matters most.
Why this Role Fits You:
• Predictable Home Time - 14-20 days on / 7-10 days off, with a regular cadence so your family calendar stays intact.
• Lead & Mentor - Run a crew of 2-3 assistants, teach safe habits, and earn bonuses tied to performance, safety, and zero-incident shifts.
• Performance Pay - Bonus structure rewards completed jobs, extra effort, and spotless safety record.
• If you're a hands-on leader who keeps rigs turning and crews safe, Boart Longyear will invest in your continued growth.
Responsibilities:
The following is a general list of duties and responsibilities that may be adjusted from time to time by your supervisor.
  • Safety is PARAMOUNT in our business. You must follow all established policies, procedures and best practices as well as the law at all times.
  • Operate the drill and lead a small crew while supporting all site operations: make/break connections (add/remove rods); handle rods/tools and perform manual material handling; haul supplies to/from the drill site; mix drilling fluids; collect, label, and organize samples and build chip trays; assist with rig-up/rig-down and site moves; fuel equipment and perform basic operator/PM service (greasing, oil changes, housekeeping); complete pre-start, daily site, and rig inspections; maintain accurate parts/supplies inventory; perform basic measurements/calculations; provide site inductions to visitors; and maintain/document the condition and service life of equipment and tooling.
  • Prepare daily reports of all drilling activities. Some examples of these reports are: reflect footage drilled, time spent performing other activities besides drilling, timekeeping for payroll purposes and reporting supplies consumed
  • Participate in weekly safety and daily line out meetings.
  • May be required to operate non-drilling equipment such as light or heavy vehicles, cranes, tele handlers, forklift, skidders, track-mounted utility vehicles, etc.
  • Monitor a safe workplace, maintain workplace safety and apply risk management processes for elimination of work-related injuries, damage to equipment and incident-related lost time.
  • Maintain accurate operating records, including daily drill reports and inventory logs.
  • Contribute to and establish effective workplace relationships.
  • Provide training through instruction and demonstration of work skills, coaching and mentoring to other field employees.
  • As an employee you must perform all your duties in a safe manner, taking care of the equipment and co-workers that you work with.
  • You will be responsible for the general condition and obtaining optimum life out of all site equipment and tools.
  • You may be responsible for the training of new Driller Assistants in a safe environment.
  • Be physically fit for work.
  • Work under the instructions of a driller/drilling field supervisor or division manager. Daily routine work is accomplished with more or less direction depending on the level of competency.
  • Work safely and follow EHS policies and procedures and conduct local risk control.
  • Have the ability to apply first aid.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • 2-3 year of consistent experience as a Driller or Driller Assistant in Drilling, Mining, or adjacent/related industry.
  • Previous experience in related positions such as: construction laborer, heavy laborer, mechanic, and mechanical work.
  • Excellent in communicating with clients and supervisor and be able to work positively with others
  • Must have a complete knowledge of mechanics as related to drill rigs, diesel, hydraulics, electrical
  • Ability to personally handle heavy wrenches, lift and/or carry heavy tools or supplies and operate levers with both hands
  • Willing to travel by plane or car to worksites throughout Nevada, Utah, Arizona, Idaho and other states where we do business.
  • Able to commute long distances for shifts (300+ miles)
  • Willing to work in remote locations and in all-weather elements
  • Willing to work at job sites for an extended period of time, 12+ hour shifts for 14-20 days at a time
  • Must have a valid U.S. Driver's License and capable of acquiring CDL.
  • Must have valid U.S. Work Authorization
  • Must pass background and drug screening
  • Must pass a Physical Functional Fitness Evaluation
  • High School diploma or GED or equivalent

Compensation, Benefits and Perks:
Boart Longyear matches your expertise with earning power and family support:
  • Strong Day Rate + Overtime - First-year total comp typically $95k-$125k with overtime & bonuses.
  • Medical, Dental, Vision - Full family coverage options from Day 1 of first full month of employment.
  • 401(k) Match & Financial Coaching - Plan for long-term security.
  • Travel on Us, Per Diem in Your Pocket - Focus on the work, not the logistics: airfare covered and a steady per diem.
  • Gear & Allowances - Company-funded PPE, boot allowance, and work attire.
  • BRAVO Recognition - Cash and swag awards for safety milestones and innovation.

Company Overview:
About Boart Longyear
Since 1890, Boart Longyear has led the way in drilling services, orebody knowledge technology, and productivity-driven equipment for mining and exploration. We support projects across copper, gold, nickel, zinc, uranium, and more-with additional work in energy, oil sands, and environmental sectors.
What You'll Be Part Of:
  • Global Drilling Services:
    At Boart Longyear Drilling Services, you'll join a world-leading provider of contract drilling solutions with a legacy of safe and reliable performance since 1890. Our Drilling Services division delivers a full range of drilling capabilities - including mineral exploration, water services, production drilling, reverse circulation, sonic, surface and underground coring - for a diverse global customer base spanning copper, gold, nickel, zinc, uranium and other critical commodities. We are recognized for innovative solutions, technical expertise, and operational excellence in some of the most challenging environments worldwide, backed by deep investment in safety, people, and equipment.

Our People & Values:
Great ideas come from diverse teams. We foster an inclusive, respectful environment where everyone is heard. Our vision: lead the industry in safety, innovation, and productivity. Our values: Integrity, Health & Safety, Teamwork & Diversity, Customer Focus, and Sustainability.
Headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah. Learn more at boartlongyear.com and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter(X).
Interested? Apply now at https://careers.boartlongyear.com/. Boart Longyear is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We appreciate all applicants from all backgrounds; only those selected for interview will be contacted.

What Boart Longyear employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom