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Oil Rig Worker Jobs in Chattanooga, TN (NOW HIRING)

Oil Rig Worker information

See Chattanooga, TN salary details

$6

$24

$42

How much do oil rig worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for oil rig worker in Chattanooga, TN is $24.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $33.03 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 job categories do people searching Oil Rig Worker jobs in Chattanooga, TN look for?

The top searched job categories for Oil Rig Worker jobs in Chattanooga, TN are:

What cities near Chattanooga, TN are hiring for Oil Rig Worker jobs?

Cities near Chattanooga, TN with the most Oil Rig Worker job openings:

Infographic showing various Oil Rig Worker job openings in Chattanooga, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,327 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

EXPERIENCED TRUCK DRIVER - HOME DAILY

Super Dollar

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

$25.23 - $28.23/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Truck Driver

Work associated with this position involves driving a tractor-trailer rig over generally established routes to deliver merchandise to the stores and customers of the Food City Distribution Center. Work also involves aiding with the loading and unloading of product(s), preparation of paperwork and preparing the rig for delivery. The Truck Driver must perform all tasks in a safe manner consistent with the corporate policies and state and federal laws.

Pay Rate: $25.23 to $28.23 (based on years of driving experience)

Essential Job Functions:

  • Performs pre-trip inspection of equipment: checking for fluid leaks, damage to tires, service brakes (including trailer brake connections), all lights and trailer electrical connections, coupling devices (including visual inspection of fifth-wheel), jaws around the shank of the trailer slider and locking pins, flaps, heater and defroster, batter boxes, safety equipment, oil pressure, air pressure, abnormal engine noise, wheel lug nuts, etc. Pre-trip inspection to include making at least one test stop before exiting the parking lot.
  • Fuels equipment, as needed. Checks water and oil. Adds coolant and oil, as needed.
  • Drives over generally established routes to make deliveries and pick-ups.
  • Assists in loading and unloading merchandise. Some lifting and pulling/pushing of pallet jacks are required.
  • Prepares paperwork as specified in procedures. Attention to detail, accurate counting, and reporting of products delivered and/or picked up must be adhered to.
  • Picks up empty trailers for return, which involves detaching the tractor from the trailer, cranking up landing gear, and reattaching the tractor to the other trailers.
  • At times, it is necessary for a driver to switch more than once to reposition trailers at the stores, etc. It is necessary to be able to operate pick up and various product loading equipment.
  • Performed yard-switching duties, as required.
  • Assumes responsibility for assuring familiarity and adherence with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulation. The Food City Distribution Center Drivers will always operate Company equipment in a safe and professional manner, allowing for changes in weather, traffic, and road conditions.

Qualifications:

  • Minimum of 12 months of verifiable Class A commercial driving experience or will take recent CDL school graduates from a vetted school. (pay will depend on experience)
  • Successfully complete the Food City Distribution Center Road Test, with emphasis on backing skills.
  • Ability to handle and complete paperwork associated with the Truck Driver position.
  • Excellent driving record (no chargeable accidents or violations, such as DWI, reckless driving, or excessive speeding). State licensure points shall not exceed minus nine (-5).
  • Valid commercial driver's license (CDL)
  • Must be at least 21 years old
  • Ability to operate a loaded pallet jack and power lifts
  • Ability to be punctual with time management and delivery schedules
  • Trustworthiness and ability to work independently with minimum supervision
  • Responsible for safe operation of vehicle, security of the vehicle and merchandise entrusted to the driver, as well as care and cleanliness of truck maintenance.
  • Ability to properly use all equipment.
  • Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
  • Expert-level knowledge in truck driving techniques and accident prevention
  • Must maintain the Physical Demands' Qualifications required to properly perform the duties of a delivery driver.
  • Must be courteous and helpful at the stores and respectful member of the Food City Distribution Center.
  • Must maintain a neat and professional appearance.

Benefits of working for Food City:

401(k) with company match, Employee Stock Ownership Plan, Weekly Pay Checks with Direct Deposit, Company paid Life and Disability Insurance, Medical Plan with wellness benefits, Dental Plan, Paid Holidays, Paid Vacations, Associate Offers, and so much more!

About Food City:

Food City is a privately held, family-owned company with a driving mission to "run the best store in town." Dedicated to giving back to the communities we serve, we encourage our associates to get involved with their local civic organizations. We consider our associates to be our greatest asset. Over 13% of the company is currently owned by our associates through our employee stock ownership plan, promoting tremendous pride in the services and products we provide. Whether your passion is baking, accounting, or trucking, Food City has a promising career opportunity for you. We offer flexible schedules to ensure our associates have ample time to spend with family and friends. If you're looking for a great career or the opportunity to try something different, consider becoming part of the Food City family.