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Oil Rig Worker Jobs in New Mexico (NOW HIRING)

Responsible for keeping worksite, equipment, and tools clean and in good working order * Perform ... Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions company with a ...

Seven (7) years' of experience working on a well servicing rig preferred * 5 years of experience ... is an oil & gas completion and production solutions company with a foundation built on well ...

Responsible for keeping worksite, equipment, and tools clean and in good working order * Perform ... Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions company with a ...

Seven (7) years' of experience working on a well servicing rig preferred * 5 years of experience ... is an oil & gas completion and production solutions company with a foundation built on well ...

Responsible for keeping worksite, equipment, and tools clean and in good working order * Perform ... ABOUT THE COMPANY Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions ...

Responsible for keeping worksite, equipment, and tools clean and in good working order * Perform ... ABOUT THE COMPANY Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions ...

Responsible for keeping worksite, equipment, and tools clean and in good working order * Perform ... ABOUT THE COMPANY Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions ...

Responsible for keeping worksite, equipment, and tools clean and in good working order * Perform ... ABOUT THE COMPANY Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions ...

The Rig Supervisor will need to be able to exhibit working knowledge of all parts on a Workover Rig ... is an oil & gas completion and production solutions company with a foundation built on well ...

The Rig Supervisor will need to be able to exhibit working knowledge of all parts on a Workover Rig ... is an oil & gas completion and production solutions company with a foundation built on well ...

The Rig Supervisor will need to be able to exhibit working knowledge of all parts on a Workover Rig ... ABOUT THE COMPANY Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions ...

The Rig Supervisor will need to be able to exhibit working knowledge of all parts on a Workover Rig ... ABOUT THE COMPANY Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions ...

Basic oilfield well servicing experience; * A minimum of one (1) year rig floor operation ... working near or with heavy tools and moving machinery * Ability to interact with others in a team ...

Basic oilfield well servicing experience; * A minimum of one (1) year rig floor operation ... working near or with heavy tools and moving machinery * Ability to interact with others in a team ...

Operator I - Relief

Hobbs, NM · On-site

$16 - $21.75/hr

Performing services on oil and gas wells as part of a 3/5-person crew of a well service rig ... Come join our team of highly skilled, motivated employees, working on state-of-the-art equipment ...

Operator-Relief

Hobbs, NM · On-site

$16 - $21.75/hr

Performing services on oil and gas wells as part of a 3/5-person crew of a well service rig ... Come join our team of highly skilled, motivated employees, working on state-of-the-art equipment ...

Reverse Unit Operator I

Artesia, NM · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

... rig functions, following safety procedures for a safe working environment and adhering to all ... Knowledge and experience in oilfield well servicing is required * Must have a valid state issued ...

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Oil Rig Worker information

See New Mexico salary details

$7

$25

$45

How much do oil rig worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for oil rig worker in New Mexico is $25.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $35.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Oil Rig Worker jobs in New Mexico?

For Oil Rig Worker jobs in New Mexico, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Oil Rig Worker jobs in New Mexico look for?

The top searched job categories for Oil Rig Worker jobs in New Mexico are:

What cities in New Mexico are hiring for Oil Rig Worker jobs?

Cities in New Mexico with the most Oil Rig Worker job openings:

Infographic showing various Oil Rig Worker job openings in New Mexico as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,563 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Operator - Rig

Hobbs, NM • On-site


Ranger Energy Services, LLC
Oil and Gas Extraction • 201 - 500 employees

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

163rd of 283 rated repair and maintenance companies

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Respectful managers


Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 1 hour ago


Job description

Rig Operator

The primary duty of the Rig Operator is to work the controls and equipment on a rig. The Rig Operator supervises crewmembers while rig operations are in process, maintains productivity standards, and works closely with customer representatives to provide safe, reliable, and quality service.

Essential duties and responsibilities include:

  • Promote RES concept of Stop Work Accountability
  • Promote RES safety policies and procedures
  • Perform Meet and Greet at location sites
  • Be aware of Simultaneous Operations and able to coordinate vendor and contractor groups on location as needed
  • Operate the rig safely during rig up/down and pulling operations
  • Operate the crown and ground saver
  • Check brake systems and confirm functionality
  • Pull and lay down rods, tubing, casing, and other equipment as needed
  • Understands job steps and arranges rods and tubing in derrick correctly
  • Understand the rig's hydraulic, pneumatic and electrical systems
  • Perform all required equipment inspections-workover rig, fall arrest system, derrick, hoisting, and mud pump
  • Able to instruct floor and derrick hands in use of all safety equipment
  • Able to instruct the floor and derrick hand in use of all rig and pumping equipment
  • Operate the power swivel
  • Perform Blowout Preventer (BOP) inspection, testing, and installation as needed
  • Assist HSE, DOT, and all other applicable departments with document completion, collection, and management
  • Complete field tickets in a timely manner and turn in to appropriate department for processing
  • Troubleshoot maintenance issues; to include performing worn equipment recognition checks and turning in maintenance requests for repair or replacement of equipment as needed
  • Accurately perform torque calculations and specs
  • Perform JSA/DWP and tailgate meetings as scheduled
  • Perform pipe tallying, rigging up and down, nipple up and down of BOP units, and pipe handling
  • Responsible for keeping worksite, equipment, and tools clean and in good working order
  • Perform day to day lubrication and minor adjustments of equipment
  • Perform use of Hazard ID programs and means of documenting hazards
  • Perform daily inspection and maintenance of equipment
  • Perform and oversee energy isolation procedures
  • Train and mentors crew members on day to day operations
  • Responsible to stop work if conditions are unsafe and report concerns immediately
  • Report all incidents as per the standard operating procedures
  • Other duties as assigned

Required education, qualifications, and experience include:

  • High school diploma or equivalent, preferred
  • 5 years of experience working on a well servicing rig preferred
  • 2 years of experience as a relief operator preferred
  • Must be able to successfully perform the duties of a Floor Hand III and derrick hand
  • Must be familiar with pump and tank operations
  • Must have a valid state-issued driver's license, CDL, or the ability to obtain one
  • Ability to perform manual labor required to operate well servicing equipment
  • Competent communication, people, and leadership skills
  • Must be able to multi-task in a fast-paced environment
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule

Computer:

  • Basic knowledge of MS Office preferred
  • Able to use the company's HSE Management Platforms

Pre-employment requirements:

Must complete and pass all required pre-employment screening.

About the company:

Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions company with a foundation built on well servicing, wireline, and natural gas processing. Ranger Energy is committed to providing employees with a benefits program that is both comprehensive and competitive. The programs are designed to invest in you and the things you care about – your health, your family, and your future. Come join our team of highly skilled, motivated employees, working on state-of-the-art equipment with outstanding compensation and additional benefits, including:

  • Medical/Dental/Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account/Health Savings Account
  • Life Insurance
  • Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with Employer Match
  • PTO (depending on eligibility)

Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.



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