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Oil Rig Jobs in Billings, MT (NOW HIRING)

Drill Rig Operator

Billings, MT · On-site +1

$41.56 - $48.49/hr

Billings, Montana Learn more about this agency Duties Help The major duties of the Drill Rig Operator position include, but are not limited to, the following: - Conduct all types of drilling that ...

Field Crane Technician

Billings, MT · On-site

$25 - $45/hr

Must have experience in preventative maintenance and light equipment repair (i.e. oil changes, break jobs, etc.) * May be required to travel to job sites and for training up to 50% of the time.

Oil Rig information

See Billings, MT salary details

$14

$22

$37

How much do oil rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for oil rig in Billings, MT is $22.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $28.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an oil rig worker?

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.”

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 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 do you get paid on oil rigs?

Oil rig workers typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, role, and location. Positions such as roustabouts, roughnecks, and drillers have different pay scales, with specialized roles often commanding higher wages. Overtime, shift differentials, and safety certifications can also impact earnings.

How much does a job 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 specialized skills and certifications often leading to higher wages. Overtime, shift differentials, and hazard pay can also increase total compensation.

What are the most commonly searched types of Oil Rig jobs in Billings, MT?

The most popular types of Oil Rig jobs in Billings, MT are:

What job categories do people searching Oil Rig jobs in Billings, MT look for?

The top searched job categories for Oil Rig jobs in Billings, MT are:

Infographic showing various Oil Rig job openings in Billings, MT as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,460 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

$41.56/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


U.S. Department Of The Interior rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

416th of 849 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Reclamation is seeking a career professional looking for an opportunity to capitalize on their expertise as a Drill Rig Operator. You can make a difference in the West by assisting in meeting increasing water demands while protecting the environment.
Duty Location: Billings, Montana
Qualifications:Your application materials must demonstrate sufficient experience and training to perform the duties of this position without more than normal supervision. Qualifications will be determined on the basis of information submitted within your resume and responses to the assessment questions. For information about qualifications for Federal Wage System positions please, visit OPM.
Minimum qualifications for trades and labor positions are determined by evaluation of job elements. You must meet at least 2 points on the screen-out element(s) and obtain an average of at least 2 points on all of the job elements in order to be considered qualified for this position.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
You must meet all Eligibility and Qualification requirements, including time-in-grade restrictions and any selective placement factors if applicable, by 08/25/2026.Education:There is no substitution of education for experience for Wage Grade (WG) positions.Employment Type: OTHER

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