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Oil Rig Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

C&J Well Services, LLC

Rig Operator

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

Two years or more of recent, workover rig operating or oil well servicing experience. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Critical: * Ability to wear personal protective equipment and/or safety ...

MasTec

Drill Rig Operator

San Diego, CA · On-site

FNF Construction, Inc., a leading heavy civil general contractor serving the Southwestern United States, is seeking an experienced Drill Rig Operator to support multiple paving operations on projects ...

MasTec

Drill Rig Operator

San Diego, CA · On-site

FNF Construction, Inc., a leading heavy civil general contractor serving the Southwestern United States, is seeking an experienced Drill Rig Operator to support multiple paving operations on projects ...

MasTec

Drill Rig Operator

San Diego, CA · On-site

FNF Construction, Inc., a leading heavy civil general contractor serving the Southwestern United States, is seeking an experienced Drill Rig Operator to support multiple paving operations on projects ...

Maxsim Traffic Logistics

Bore Rig Operator

Acampo, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

A bore rig operator's duties include safely operating and maintaining drilling equipment to create deep, narrow holes for various purposes, including utility installation, water wells, and resource ...

DCOR, LLC - BW.

Crane Mechanic

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

... of oil well rigs as needed  Work as directed by Crane Supervisor, Lead Operators, Rig Supervisors, Lead Crane Mechanic, and Maintenance Foreman  Maintain maintenance and repair records and ...

Ormat Technologies, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Rio Vista, CA

$23 - $32.38/hr

This position is also responsible for the job rig-up and rig-down and for operating the bulk truck ... Oilfield Truck Driving experience a plus. * Forklift certified preferred. * Haz Mat CDL endorsement ...

Ormat Technologies, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Rio Vista, CA

$23 - $32.38/hr

This position is also responsible for the job rig-up and rig-down and for operating the bulk truck ... Oilfield Truck Driving experience a plus. * Forklift certified preferred. * Haz Mat CDL endorsement ...

Ormat Technologies, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Rio Vista, CA

$21.63 - $32.38/hr

This position is also responsible for the job rig-up and rig-down and for operating the bulk truck ... Oilfield Truck Driving experience a plus. * Forklift certified preferred. * Haz Mat CDL endorsement ...

Ormat Technologies, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Rio Vista, CA

$23 - $32.38/hr

This position is also responsible for the job rig-up and rig-down and for operating the bulk truck ... Oilfield Truck Driving experience a plus. * Forklift certified preferred. * Haz Mat CDL endorsement ...

C&J Well Services, LLC

Crew Worker

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and ... One-year prior work in an oilfield services environment or completion of CJWS Trainee program.

C&J Well Services, LLC

Crew Worker

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and ... One-year prior work in an oilfield services environment or completion of CJWS Trainee program.

C&J Well Services, LLC

Floorhand

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and ... One-year prior work in an oilfield services environment or with/around heavy industrial machinery ...

C&J Well Services, LLC

Crew Worker-Ventura, CA

Ventura, CA

$12.75 - $16.75/hr

Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and ... One-year prior work in an oilfield services environment or with/around heavy industrial machinery ...

C&J Well Services, LLC

Crew Worker

Bakersfield, CA

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and ... One-year prior work in an oilfield services environment or completion of CJWS Trainee program.

C&J Well Services, LLC

Crew Worker-Ventura, CA

Ventura, CA · On-site

$12.75 - $16.75/hr

Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and ... One-year prior work in an oilfield services environment or with/around heavy industrial machinery ...

C&J Well Services, LLC

Floorhand

Bakersfield, CA

Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and ... One-year prior work in an oilfield services environment or with/around heavy industrial machinery ...

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All JobsOil Rig JobsOil Rig Jobs in California

Oil Rig information

See California salary details

$14

$22

$37

How much do oil rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for oil rig in California is $22.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $28.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by workers on an oil rig, and how are they addressed?

Working on an oil rig presents unique challenges such as long shifts, remote locations, and exposure to harsh weather conditions. Team members often work in rotating shifts (e.g., two weeks on, two weeks off), which can impact work-life balance. Safety is a top priority, with regular drills and strict protocols to minimize risks from heavy machinery and hazardous materials. Strong teamwork and communication are essential, as crews must collaborate closely to ensure operations run smoothly and safely. Most companies provide thorough training, support services, and modern amenities to help staff manage these challenges.

What are oil rig workers?

Oil rig workers are professionals who operate and maintain the equipment used to drill for oil and gas beneath the earth's surface, often on offshore platforms or onshore drilling sites. Their responsibilities include monitoring drilling operations, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and performing routine maintenance on machinery. Oil rig work can be physically demanding and requires long shifts, sometimes in remote or challenging environments. Many positions on an oil rig, such as roughneck, driller, or derrickhand, each have specific duties that contribute to the overall drilling process.

What is the difference between Oil Rig vs Oil Platform Worker?

AspectOil RigOil Platform Worker
CredentialsCertifications in safety, welding, and technical skillsSafety training, technical certifications often required
Work EnvironmentOffshore, mobile, often in harsh weatherOffshore platform, fixed or semi-permanent structures
Employer & Industry UsageUsed interchangeably in industry, referring to offshore drilling unitsRefers to personnel working on oil platforms

Both 'Oil Rig' and 'Oil Platform Worker' relate to offshore oil extraction. An oil rig is the structure used for drilling, while an oil platform worker is the personnel operating on these structures. Understanding the distinction helps in job searches and industry comprehension.

How much does working on an oil rig pay?

Oil rig workers typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, role, and location. Positions such as roustabouts, roughnecks, and engineers have varying pay scales, with many workers receiving additional compensation for overtime and hazardous conditions.

How much do you get paid on an oil rig?

Oil rig workers typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, role, and location. Offshore positions often offer higher pay due to the challenging environment and required certifications such as H2S and BOSIET. Salaries can also include bonuses and overtime pay.

How do I get a job in an oil rig?

To get a job on an oil rig, candidates typically need relevant technical skills, such as experience in welding, drilling, or safety procedures, and often require certifications like H2S or BOSIET. Applying through oil companies' recruitment programs or staffing agencies, gaining experience in the oil and gas industry, and being physically fit are also important steps. Many positions require a high school diploma or equivalent and the ability to work long shifts in challenging environments.

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, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with specialized safety certifications like H2S and Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET) often required. Familiarity with drill machinery, rig safety systems, and tools such as rotary drills and hoisting equipment is essential. Teamwork, problem-solving, and strong communication skills help individuals stand out in this demanding and hazardous environment. These abilities ensure operational efficiency, personal safety, and effective collaboration under challenging offshore conditions.

Is it hard to get hired at an oil rig?

Getting hired as an oil rig worker can be competitive and requires relevant skills, certifications, and physical fitness. Employers often look for experience in safety procedures, technical skills, and the ability to work long shifts in challenging environments.

What Are Jobs on an Oil Rig?

Oil rig jobs include semi-skilled workers who operate on the rig deck, specialists who work on machinery for drilling, and drillers and assistants who handle the controls of the drill in a control room. On offshore rigs, crews may include medics, mechanics, welders, and cooks. Management-level staff on oil and gas industry rigs include tool pushers, who work in the rig office, and offshore installation managers, whose duties involve overseeing the entire rig operation. Geologists who work on an oil rig collect samples during operations, otherwise known as “mud logging.”

More about Oil Rig jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Oil Rig jobs in California? The most popular types of Oil Rig jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Oil Rig jobs in California? For Oil Rig jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Oil Rig jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Oil Rig jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Oil Rig jobs? Cities in California with the most Oil Rig job openings:
Oil Rig jobs near you
Infographic showing various Oil Rig job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,576 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Rig Operator

C&J Well Services, LLC

Bakersfield, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Key Accountabilities
  • Directs other crew members in rigging up guy-lines, various equipment, and tools; lifts, removes, installs, and operates wellhead, pumping units, matting boards, tubing, rods, casing, rod strippers, polish rods, stripper heads, and other production equipment in a manner consistent with safe operating procedures to perform the contracted services.
  • Positions the rig, raises and lowers the mast.
  • Directs the crew members in performing routine maintenance and repair activities of the rig and rig tools.
  • Conducts Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment, and Risk Mitigation.
  • Conducts safety meetings and performs pre-job briefs with his crew members and other service providers on site.
  • Completes the Field Service Reports, documenting services performed, equipment used, billable consumables, and compensable crew time.
  • Interacts positively with customer representatives on location to ensure proper job execution and customer satisfaction.
  • Conducts route planning.
  • Conducts safety observations.
  • Develops and reviews Job Safety Plans (JSP).
  • Completes equipment inspections and audits.
  • May be required to drive a company, light, or DOT-regulated commercial vehicle.
  • Performs all duties in compliance with Customer and Company policies and procedures and applicable regulations.
  • Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and safe work procedures.
  • Complies with all the Company's Safety and Environmental policies, practices, and programs. Takes corrective action within training limitations. Escalates as necessary.
  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Education, Certificates, Licenses
  • Motor Vehicle Record qualifies the individual to be an approved company driver required.
  • Commercial driver's license preferred.
  • Well Control training required within 30 days.

Experience
  • Two years or more of recent, workover rig operating or oil well servicing experience.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Critical:
  • Ability to wear personal protective equipment and/or safety equipment including safety glasses, face shields, goggles, earmuffs/plugs, steel toe boots, hard hat, full body harness with applicable fall protection devices, SCBA (Self Contained Breathing Apparatus), H2S detectors, slicker or TYVEK suits and gloves.
  • Knowledge of company and client policies, DOT and HSE standards and guidelines.
  • Ability to comply with the client's and the company's safe operating procedures. All activities are to be performed consistent with the company's Safe Operating Procedures, to provide the maximum protection for all workers at the work site, the environment, and the equipment; and to complete the tasks efficiently.

Required:
  • Basic knowledge of downhole conditions and desired outcome from an intervention.
  • Ability to perform the primary thinking called for and encompassed by the overall job description.
  • Ability to make quick decision-making and problem-solving skills to address unexpected challenges.
  • Skilled in driving rig and other heavy equipment.
  • Ability to perform and plan rig operations and services.
  • Ability to read and follow job plans.
  • Ability to direct crew members in their daily activities.
  • Ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with team members, supervisors, and other personnel on the job site to ensure the efficient and safe completion of tasks.
  • Ability to participate in and contribute to the collaborative resolution of challenges and issues within a team setting.
  • Ability to work at heights up to or greater than 50 feet.
  • Demonstrated dependability i.e. reporting for work at the prescribed location and on time.
  • Ability to work beyond the traditional 8-hour work day; available to work Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays, to meet operational needs.

Desired:
  • Awareness of and familiarity with oilfield operations, including understanding the layout of well sites, pipelines, and other infrastructure.

  • Certification in First Aid, CPR, H2S, confined space entry, and defensive driver.
  • Commercial driver's license.

Work Environment
This role works primarily in a non-office environment. In this capacity, incumbents are regularly:
  • Exposed to outdoor elements such as extreme heat or cold, heavy winds, rain, or snow.
  • Exposed to loud noise level elements.
  • Required to drive to and access job sites, in light of day as well as in darkness, to perform work assignments. Some job site locations may be remote from the office requiring long drives to locations isolated from interaction with others and towns.
  • Required to balance, bend, squat, crouch, climb, reach, grasp, stoop, kneel, push/pull and lift objects, and use apparatus to push/pull and lift heavy objects weighing 50 lbs or more.
  • Subject to exposure to hazards such as but not limited to slippery or uneven surfaces; environmental/industry hazards such as chemicals, high-decibel noise from production equipment, fumes, or poor ventilation; proximity to moving objects and vehicles; potentially combustible components; hazardous off- road conditions such as dust, ice, and snow.
  • May be requested to work long hours to complete job assignments.
  • May work a rotating schedule, shift, and/or be on call.
  • Follow all company safety policies and protocols.
  • Required to perform active, physical tasks including but not limited to operating equipment and/or machinery and making adjustments and repairs.
  • Required to have visual acuity to work with parts, equipment, apparatus, etc.
  • Required to possess audible acuity to hear alarms in the event of emergency. field locations.

This job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties nor account for all abilities required to perform the job. It is a general description of the nature of the position.
The pay range for this position in California is between $29.32 per hour and $30.43 per hour. Please note that the hourly rate information is a general guideline, and that the hourly rate will vary depending on your location. C&J Well Services, LLC ("CJWS") will consider factors such as (but not limited to) scope of responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer. excellent benefits including full health benefits, 401(k) with company match and immediate vesting, and generous paid time off.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
C&J Well Services, LLC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
LINK to Equal Employment Opportunity Posters:
https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/ofccpost.htm
Reasonable Accommodation Notice
If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact Human Resources at 661-589-5220 or CJWSHR@cjws.com.
Pay Transparency Notice
C&J Well Services, LLC ("CJWS") will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against an applicant or employee because they have inquired about or discussed compensation.
Notice to Third Party Agencies
Please note that C&J Well Services, LLC ("CJWS") does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the absence of a signed Recruitment Agreement, CJWS will not consider or agree to payment of any referral compensation or recruiter fee. In the event a recruiter or agency submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed agreement, CJWS explicitly reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers, will not be reviewed or considered in part of the application process.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
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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