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Oil Rig Jobs in Covington, GA (NOW HIRING)

Perform drill rig setup, teardown, and daily inspections * Operate mud pumps, mixers, vacuum systems, and other jobsite equipment * Conduct pre-trip and post-trip equipment checks; report mechanical ...

Oil Rig information

See Covington, GA salary details

$12

$19

$32

How much do oil rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for oil rig in Covington, GA is $19.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $24.28 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.

How much do oil rig workers make?

Oil rig workers' salaries vary based on experience, role, and location, but they typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually. Skilled positions such as drillers and engineers tend to have higher pay, and many workers receive additional compensation for working long shifts and in remote environments.

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.

Do roughnecks make 180k a year?

Roughnecks on oil rigs typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, with experienced workers in high-paying regions sometimes reaching around $150,000. Earning $180,000 a year is uncommon and usually requires extensive experience, specialized skills, or working in high-cost or offshore environments with additional hazard pay or overtime.

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.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

An oil rig worker, such as a roustabout or roughneck, can earn $10,000 or more per month with experience and specialized skills. These roles often require physical fitness, safety certifications, and on-site training, but typically do not require a college degree. High-paying positions are usually found in offshore drilling or deepwater operations.

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.”

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 earning higher wages. Many workers also receive additional compensation for overtime, hazards, and rotation schedules.
What are the most commonly searched types of Oil Rig jobs in Covington, GA? The most popular types of Oil Rig jobs in Covington, GA are:
What are popular job titles related to Oil Rig jobs in Covington, GA? For Oil Rig jobs in Covington, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Oil Rig jobs in Covington, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Oil Rig jobs in Covington, GA are:
What cities near Covington, GA are hiring for Oil Rig jobs? Cities near Covington, GA with the most Oil Rig job openings:
Infographic showing various Oil Rig job openings in Covington, GA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,042 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Full-Time | Utilities & Construction | Field Operations 

About the Role 

We are looking for a skilled and dependable Directional Drilling Drill Operator to safely and efficiently operate horizontal directional drilling equipment for underground utility installation. This role requires strong technical ability, attention to detail, and leadership skills to guide the crew through successful bores. 

Key Responsibilities 

  • Operate HDD drill rigs (Vermeer, Ditch Witch, or similar) to complete bore paths safely and accurately 

  • Read and interpret bore plans, prints, utility locates, and job specifications 

  • Work closely with the locator to maintain proper depth, pitch, steering, and alignment 

  • Perform drill rig setup, teardown, and daily inspections 

  • Operate mud pumps, mixers, vacuum systems, and other jobsite equipment 

  • Conduct pre-trip and post-trip equipment checks; report mechanical issues 

  • Manage drilling fluid systems and understand proper drilling mud applications 

  • Lead or support crew during pilot bore, reaming, and pullback operations 

  • Maintain accurate bore logs, daily production reports, and equipment documentation 

  • Ensure strict compliance with company safety standards, OSHA regulations, and PPE requirements 

  • Train and mentor laborers and junior crew members as needed 

  • Assist in jobsite restoration, cleanup, and material handling 

Required Qualifications 

  • Experience as an HDD Drill Operator required (1–3 years preferred) 

  • Proficiency working with HDD equipment (Vermeer, Ditch Witch, etc.) 

  • Strong understanding of the HDD process, drilling fluids, and utility construction 

  • Ability to read maps, bore plans, and underground utility layouts 

  • Valid driver’s license required (CDL Class A preferred) 

  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions 

  • Strong communication and leadership skills 

  • Ability to lift 50–75 lbs regularly 

Preferred Skills 

  • Experience with challenging soils, long bores, or large diameter pulls 

  • Knowledge of mud systems, reamers, tooling, drill rods, and pipe handling 

  • Mechanical aptitude for troubleshooting equipment 

  • Familiarity with OSHA 10/30, trench safety, and underground utility safety 

  • Experience coordinating with inspectors, GC supervisors, and utility owners 

Work Environment & Physical Demands 

  • Outdoor work in all weather (heat, cold, rain, mud, uneven ground) 

  • Long days, early mornings, and occasional weekends 

  • Frequent bending, lifting, standing, and equipment operation 

  • Travel may be required depending on project needs 

What We Offer 

  • Competitive pay + overtime 

  • Career path to Crew Lead, Supervisor, or Drilling Services Manager 

  • Training, certifications, and advancement opportunities 

  • Health, dental, vision options  

  • 401K 

  • Life Insurance 

  • Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance 

  • Strong team culture and steady workflow 

Schedule 

  • Monday–Friday 

  • Occasional weekends & out-of-town work depending on project load 

Job Requirements

  • Previous Drilling experience required (3-5 years preferred)
  • Experience running compact excavator to assist with structure placement, grading, and general excavation
  • Experience operating utility locator to assist with potholing
  • Able and willing to shovel consistently and lift between 50- 75 pounds
  • Valid insurable driver's license (CDLpreferred)
  • Second only to safety... have a POSITIVE ATTITUDE!
  • Keen sense of attention to detail