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Oil Rig Jobs in Kalamazoo, MI (NOW HIRING)

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Oil Rig information

See Kalamazoo, MI salary details

$13

$21

$36

How much do oil rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for oil rig in Kalamazoo, MI is $21.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.05 and $27.12 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.
More about Oil Rig jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Oil Rig jobs in Kalamazoo, MI?

The most popular types of Oil Rig jobs in Kalamazoo, MI are:

What are popular job titles related to Oil Rig jobs in Kalamazoo, MI?

For Oil Rig jobs in Kalamazoo, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Kalamazoo, MI are hiring for Oil Rig jobs?

Cities near Kalamazoo, MI with the most Oil Rig job openings:

Oil Rig jobs near you
Infographic showing various Oil Rig job openings in Kalamazoo, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,712 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Driller - Project Based

Kalamazoo, MI • On-site

Nicholson Construction Company
Construction • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Nicholson Construction Companyexternal

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Since 1955, Nicholson Construction Company has been setting the industry standard for performance and technical innovation in geotechnical construction. We have built our reputation by performing the highest quality work and providing the most innovative solutions on the widest range of demanding and high profile projects. Nicholson is part of a global network of unparalleled geotechnical resources and expertise, specializing in deep foundations, earth retention, ground treatment and ground improvement.

Summary:

  • Operates Nicholson owned or rented equipment to perform geotechnical work, while meeting all Nicholson and OSHA standards.
  • Project Hire: Location Lovington, NM. 

Description:

  • Able to direct the operation of the crew assigned to his equipment
  • Ensures that all Nicholson and OSHA safety regulations are followed and enforced; responsible for safety on site
  • Ensures that all Nicholson quality standards are met
  • Responsible for the maintenance and documentation of the equipment operated
  • Informs Superintendent or site mechanic of malfunctioning equipment or equipment related problems
  • Attends safety meetings
  • Responsible for maintaining daily drill logs and equipment inspection forms
  • Ensures that the work performed is built to the plans, specifications and the level of quality expected of Nicholson

Qualifications & Requirements:

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Ability to thoroughly follow directions given by supervisors to complete assigned tasks
  • Ability to work as part of a crew
  • Ability to focus on daily and weekly goals for the project
  • Knowledge of applicable OSHA and Nicholson safety rules
  • OSHA 10-hour Training Certification 
  • Forklift and Crane Certifications
  • First Aid/CPR Training

Experience:

  • Minimum of 3 years of construction experience, 2 years of which must have been as a drill rig or crane equipment operator. Crane Operators must provide current certifications.

Knowledge and Abilities:

  • Proven ability to operate construction equipment
  • Thorough understanding of different drilling and excavating techniques utilized by Nicholson
  • Understands equipment operating systems and instrumentation (mechanical and hydraulic)

Physical Requirements:

  • Reaching high and low, stooping, and bending continually
  • Lifting/carrying/moving up to 100 pounds continually
  • Able to travel per the Nicholson travel policy
  • Requires a high degree of concentration in a busy and noisy construction environment
  • Requires working in all types of weather

Mental Requirements:

  • Converse effectively using both verbal and written communication.
  • Make decisions and assume accountability
  • Concentrate on tasks
  • Demonstrate ability to manage stress and emotions as related to the workplace
  • Attention to detail
  • Identify and resolve conflict
  • Assess safety and risk

Benefits:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Short Term Disability
  • Long Term Disability
  • Accidental Death and Dismemberment
  • Life Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program

Nicholson Construction participates in E-Verify.

In an effort to foster a diverse workforce Nicholson Construction encourages applications from minorities, veterans, women and individuals with disabilities.  EOE AA M/F/Vet/Disability

If you want to view the EEO is the Law poster, please choose your language: English – Spanish – Arabic - Chinese

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