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Oil Rig Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Operate and maintain a directional drill rig and associated equipment. * Locate existing underground utilities by potholing and using locating equipment. * Mix chemicals with water for a boring fluid ...

Operate and maintain a directional drill rig and associated equipment. * Locate existing underground utilities by potholing and using locating equipment. * Mix chemicals with water for a boring fluid ...

Drill Operator Locator

Kent, WA · On-site

$28 - $42/hr

Operate and maintain a directional drill rig and associated equipment. * Locate existing underground utilities by potholing and using locating equipment. * Mix chemicals with water for a boring fluid ...

Driver - Tacoma, WA

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$88K - $120K/yr

Food Express, Inc. is a family owned and operated dedicated bulk-food grade commodity hauler specializing in flour, sugar, malt, oil, starch and related commodities. Food Express is hiring truck ...

We are a global leader in delivering efficiency products to the transportation and construction equipment industries such as automatic lubrication, oil level management systems. The US head office is ...

We are a global leader in delivering efficiency products to the transportation and construction equipment industries such as automatic lubrication, oil level management systems. The US head office is ...

Oil Rig information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$16

$25

$43

How much do oil rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for oil rig in Seattle, WA is $25.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $32.55 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.

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 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.”

What are the most commonly searched types of Oil Rig jobs in Seattle, WA? The most popular types of Oil Rig jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Oil Rig jobs in Seattle, WA? For Oil Rig jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Oil Rig jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Oil Rig job openings:
Infographic showing various Oil Rig job openings in Seattle, WA 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 $53,708 per year, or $25.8 per hour.
Drill Operator Locator

Drill Operator Locator

Hire Velocity, LLC

Kent, WA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Key Responsibilities:
  • Operate and maintain a directional drill rig and associated equipment.
  • Locate existing underground utilities by potholing and using locating equipment.
  • Mix chemicals with water for a boring fluid to match ground conditions.
  • Guide the drill head from point A to point B, ensuring it stays at the correct depth and avoids obstacles.
  • Prepare for and execute the pullback process, connecting the product to the reamer.
  • Inspect and maintain all job equipment, including the drill and mixing unit.
  • Coordinate with the drilling crew and other personnel to ensure a safe and efficient operation.
  • Adhere to strict safety standards to protect both the crew and existing utility infrastructure.

Qualifications
  • Experience: At least 1-2 years of directional drilling experience in an urban environment, and experience with different types of drills, such as Vermeer or Ditch Witch.
  • Driving: A valid WA Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with a clean driving record.
  • Skills:
  • Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
  • Ability to read and interpret maps, diagrams, and utility locates.
  • Good communication and teamwork skills.
  • Physical requirements: Ability to work in various weather conditions and perform physically demanding tasks, such as lifting up to 50 pounds, bending, squatting, and standing for extended periods.

Working Conditions
  • The majority of work is performed on active construction sites.
  • May involve long hours, night shifts, and weekend work depending on project demands.
  • Must be able to work in underground environments, including confined or low-light areas.

Licenses/Certifications (Preferred or Required):
  • OSHA 30 or MSHA Certification
  • Valid WA Class A CDL License
  • First Aid/CPR
  • EOE/AAP M-F-D-DV

**Benefits**
  • Competitive salary.
  • Health benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • Retirement savings plan with company matching.
  • Paid time off
  • Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

Hire Velocity logo

About Hire Velocity

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Hire Velocity, headquartered in Atlanta, GA, US, operates in the human resources industry as a leading provider of recruitment process outsourcing and talent solutions. The company, which operates in the United States, was founded with the mission of revolutionizing hiring. The company offers innovative solutions to drive talent success, specializing in designing complete talent strategies, implementing efficient recruiting processes, and delivering results with in-depth analytics. Hire Velocity believes in the power of people and is committed to connecting companies with the top talent they need to succeed.

Industry

Human resource programs administration

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Atlanta, GA, US

Year founded

2004