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Oil Roughneck Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Field Maintenance Tech

Saint Clairsville, OH

$16.75 - $22.75/hr

... Iron Roughneck, Catwalk, Engines and/or electrical/VFD inspections * Various levels of ... Various levels of knowledge and experience repairing multiple types of oilfield drilling equipment ...

Field Maintenance Tech PDC

Tyler, TX

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

... Iron Roughneck, Catwalk, Engines and/or electrical/VFD inspections * Various levels of ... Various levels of knowledge and experience repairing multiple types of oilfield drilling equipment ...

Use iron roughneck, slips, and tongs to properly handle and connect / break sections of drill pipe ... as checking / changing oil and coolant on engines * Assist Derrickhand with watching and ...

Use iron roughneck, slips, and tongs to properly handle and connect / break sections of drill pipe ... as checking / changing oil and coolant on engines * Assist Derrickhand with watching and ...

Use iron roughneck, slips, and tongs to properly handle and connect / break sections of drill pipe ... as checking / changing oil and coolant on engines * Assist Derrickhand with watching and ...

Use iron roughneck, slips, and tongs to properly handle and connect / break sections of drill pipe ... as checking / changing oil and coolant on engines * Assist Derrickhand with watching and ...

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Oil Roughneck information

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$10

$15

$22

How much do oil roughneck jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for oil roughneck in the United States is $15.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Oil Roughneck, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Oil Roughneck, you need physical stamina, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often complemented by safety and rig operation training. Familiarity with drilling equipment, safety harnesses, and sometimes certifications like H2S Alive or Basic Safety Orientation are typical requirements. Strong teamwork, communication skills, and the ability to follow safety protocols set successful roughnecks apart. These competencies are crucial for maintaining efficient operations and ensuring safety in the demanding and hazardous oilfield environment.

What are some common challenges faced by oil roughnecks on drilling sites?

Oil roughnecks often encounter physically demanding work and exposure to harsh weather conditions, as drilling sites operate around the clock in remote or extreme environments. Adapting to long shifts, maintaining safety protocols, and working cohesively with a diverse crew are key challenges. Additionally, roughnecks must quickly learn to operate heavy machinery and respond calmly to unexpected situations to ensure both personal safety and the smooth operation of the drilling process.

What are oil roughnecks?

Oil roughnecks are workers on oil rigs responsible for a variety of physically demanding tasks, including drilling, maintaining equipment, and handling drilling fluids. They work as part of the drilling crew under the supervision of a driller or rig manager. The job often involves long hours, exposure to harsh weather conditions, and adherence to strict safety protocols. Roughnecks play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth and safe operation of oil drilling activities.

What is the difference between Oil Roughneck vs Drilling Rig Worker?

AspectOil RoughneckDrilling Rig Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certificationsHigh school diploma, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentOffshore/onshore drilling sitesOffshore/onshore drilling sites
Job RoleAssists in drilling operations, handling equipmentSupports drilling activities, equipment maintenance
Industry UsageOil and gas extractionOil and gas extraction

Oil Roughnecks and Drilling Rig Workers often perform similar tasks in drilling operations, with overlapping credentials and work environments. The term 'Oil Roughneck' is more specific to the hands-on, physically demanding roles on drilling sites, while 'Drilling Rig Worker' can encompass a broader range of support roles. Both positions are essential in the oil and gas industry, focusing on operational support and safety.

More about Oil Roughneck jobs
What cities are hiring for Oil Roughneck jobs? Cities with the most Oil Roughneck job openings:
What states have the most Oil Roughneck jobs? States with the most job openings for Oil Roughneck jobs include:
Field Maintenance Tech

Field Maintenance Tech

Patterson-UTI

Saint Clairsville, OH

$16.75 - $22.75/hr

Other

Posted 16 days ago


Patterson-UTI rating

4.4

Company rating: 4.4 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

71st of 74 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

Brief Description:

 The Field Maintenance Technician travels to drilling rig field locations to perform a variety of equipment service and maintenance activities. Activities include servicing, repairing, adjusting, inspecting and testing equipment, documenting equipment condition and maintenance activities. Additional duties include training and mentoring crew on operational level maintenance, coordinating maintenance related projects on rigs, and providing appropriate feedback to the job site manager and maintenance management team.

Description:

We have exciting opportunities available for skilled professionals in various fields. If you're looking for a rewarding career, consider joining our team. Here are the positions we're currently hiring for:

  • Instrumentation & Electrical Technicians: If you have expertise in electrical systems and instrumentation, we want to hear from you!
  • Diesel Mechanics: Are you skilled in maintaining and repairing diesel engines? We have openings for experienced diesel mechanics.
  • Controls and Automation Technicians: If you're passionate about automation and control systems, this role might be a great fit for you.
  • HVAC Technicians: Keeping rig equipment cool in extreme conditions is crucial. If you're an HVAC pro, we'd love to have you on board.
  • Hydraulic Specialists: Hydraulic systems play a vital role in rig operations. If you're knowledgeable in hydraulics, consider joining our team.

As part of our Field Maintenance crew, you'll travel to drilling rig field locations to perform essential equipment service and maintenance tasks. Your responsibilities will include: 

  • Servicing, Repairing, and Adjusting Equipment: Keeping our equipment in top shape is critical for smooth operations.
  • Testing Equipment: Rigorous testing ensures safety and reliability.

Detailed Description:

  • Plan appropriately to drive extended distances to rig locations and perform maintenance duties
  • Provide various levels of support and training to operational crews in preventative maintenance checks and services, including how to properly conduct basic and intermediate repairs
  • Diagnostic knowledge (basic to advanced) of mechanical, hydraulic, or electrical faults and plan coordination for the repair of the system(s)
  • Demonstrate knowledge (basic to advanced) in performing and accurately documenting the findings of technical level inspections on the Top Drive, Mud Pump, Iron Roughneck, Catwalk, Engines and/or electrical/VFD inspections
  • Various levels of participation in maintenance related projects on the rig with the rig crew or 3rd party support
  • Develop and monitor spare and replacement parts listing for specific equipment
  • Complete various levels of repairs identified during the technical level inspections
  • Perform various levels of trouble shooting and problem-solving on assigned equipment and assets
  • Provide various levels of assistance to operations in designated Maintenance/Policy implementation
  • Various levels of knowledge and experience repairing multiple types of oilfield drilling equipment and systems, or related equipment

Job Requirements: 

  • Ability to safely navigate drilling rig work sites with occasional walking, climbing, standing, stepping, etc. during normal rig operating conditions (day/night, outdoor hot/cold weather)
  • Ability to travel to visit drilling rig work sites and support business units; requiring extended travel to remote locations and/or overnight stay(s) outside normal office area
  • Ability to work a rotational schedule that can include days or nights as well as weekends, holidays, and be on call after hours
  • Lift and carry 50 pounds independently while walking on uneven surfaces
  • Bend, stoop, kneel, twist, and crawl during visits to field and operational work areas
  • Frequent use a variety of hand and power tools to perform a range of mechanically oriented functions including independent use of heavy-duty handheld and long-handled tools
  • Ability to judge near and far distances to maintain awareness of, watch, and report ongoing work activities to coworkers and third parties
  • Ability to listen for unusual noises that signify equipment and machinery problems
  • Accurate recall of information over short and long-term memory
  • Maintain spatial orientation and awareness to safely move around work environment with many moving objects
  • Stay alert and focused including during occasional extended work periods
  • Demonstrate clear communication skills including ability to read, write and speak English as well as understand and promptly follow verbal and written instructions in English
  • Ability to immediately respond to emergency situations
  • Wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all designated times which could include but is not limited to: hard hat, safety glasses, coveralls, work gloves, respirator, and hearing protection
  • Possess strong interpersonal skills including ability to interact productively with coworkers and third parties; working closely with others under deadlines including time-sensitive response situations
  • Work with an emphasis on safety for themselves and others including coworkers and third parties
  • Demonstrate basic math skills
  • Possess basic computer skills in Microsoft Office
  • Ability to demonstrate proficiency in using maintenance software, updating and properly closing work orders
  • Ability to operate oilfield equipment, and pass all certification exams as necessary
  • Attend and successfully complete all additional training courses, certification courses and related work, as assigned
  • Ability to successfully meet pre-employment testing requirements which may include without limitation, pre-employment drug and alcohol test(s) ad background checks as well as drug and/or alcohol testing periodically during employment (subject to state and federal laws)

Minimum Qualifications:

All Level Requirements:

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Must have valid state-issued driver's license and be eligible to drive Company vehicle including ability to meet requirements of Company's vehicle Use Agreement and Driving Policy

     Preferred Qualifications:

  • Successful completion of technical training or advanced education courses
  • Control system experience in automations and electronics (Robotics and Automation Technology, Electrical Technology, etc.)
  • Instrumentations and electronics control system experience (Mechatronics, Industrial Technology, etc.)
  • Diesel technology and power generation experience

Field Maintenance Technician 1:

  • Two (2) years stable related work history in field maintenance
  • Or one (1) year of troubleshooting and repair related experience and successful completion of related vocational training

     Preferred Qualifications:

  • Field maintenance experience in the oil and gas or related industry
  • Experience with equipment maintenance to include: Caterpillar 3512 series engines, Waukesha L7044 series engines, Alta DW, F-1600 style mud pumps, Forum Catwalk, GD800 DW, ST-80, Rotary Table, Hydraulics, TDS 11 Top Drive, ADS-10SD DW, DSDG 375 DW
  • Experience with: Omron, Amphion, Current Power, Siemens, Function Block, Allen Bradley, ABB Drives, Woodward Easy Gen Controls, Yaskawa Drives, or other related electrical equipment

Field Maintenance Technician 2:

  • Three (3) years stable related work history in field maintenance
  • Or two (2) years history in troubleshooting and repair of drilling rig equipment (drawworks, mud pumps, top drive systems, or related electrical systems) and successful completion of advanced education in a relevant vocational field

     Preferred Qualifications:

  • 1 year of Patterson-UTI field-based experience
  • Experience with repair and preventative maintenance with equipment to include: Caterpillar 3512 series engines, Waukesha L7044 series engines, Alta DW, F-1600 style mud pumps, Forum Catwalk, GD800 DW, ST-80, Rotary Table, Hydraulics, TDS 11 Top Drive, ADS-10 SD DW, DSDG 375 DW
  • Experience with: Omron, Amphion, Current Power, Siemens, Function Block, Allen Bradley, ABB Drives, Woodward Easy Gen Controls, Yaskawa Drives, or other related electrical equipment
  • Technical or vocational training on repair and maintenance of mechanical equipment

Field Maintenance Technician 3:      

  • Four (4) years of field maintenance experience (additional years of experience may serve in lieu of advanced education) including a minimum two (2) years of experience working with: electrical control systems and/or repair and preventative equipment maintenance of oilfield equipment or related
  • Technical or vocational training or related experience on a variety of control and power systems and mechanical equipment

     Preferred Qualifications:

  • 2 years of Patterson-UTI field-based experience
  • Related OEM training
  • Experience working with Omron, Amphion, or Current Power Control systems, or related electrical control systems
  • Experience with equipment maintenance to include: Caterpillar 3512 series engines, Waukesha L7044 Series engines, Alta DW, F-1600 mud pumps, Forum Catwalk, GD800 DW, ST-80, Rotary Table, Hydraulics, TDS 11 Top Drive, ADS-10SD DW, DSDG 375 DW, or related
  • Experience with: Omron, Amphion, Current Power, Siemens, Function Block, Allen Bradley, ABB Drives, Woodward Easy Gen Controls, Yaskawa Drives, or other related electrical equipment
  • Previous experience in a supervisory or leadership role in the oil and natural gas industry or related field

Work Environment:

This position requires the person to work outdoors in all types of weather conditions, including precipitation, cold/heat, high wind, and turbulent conditions. The Technician will be exposed to the typical conditions of the local area where the drilling operations and rigs are located. The Technician will work in a heavy industrial environment which includes working around constantly moving overhead machinery, being in close proximity to loud equipment and handling potentially hazardous chemicals.

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