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Oilfield Rig Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

C&J Well Services, LLC

Rig Operator

Bakersfield, CA ยท On-site

Two years or more of recent, workover rig operating or oil well servicing experience. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Critical: * Ability to wear personal protective equipment and/or safety ...

DCOR, LLC - BW.

Crane Mechanic

Oxnard, CA ยท On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

... of oil well rigs as needed ๏‚ท Work as directed by Crane Supervisor, Lead Operators, Rig Supervisors, Lead Crane Mechanic, and Maintenance Foreman ๏‚ท Maintain maintenance and repair records and ...

Ormat Technologies, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Rio Vista, CA

$23 - $32.38/hr

This position is also responsible for the job rig-up and rig-down and for operating the bulk truck ... Oilfield Truck Driving experience a plus. * Forklift certified preferred. * Haz Mat CDL endorsement ...

Ormat Technologies, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Rio Vista, CA ยท On-site

$23 - $32.38/hr

This position is also responsible for the job rig-up and rig-down and for operating the bulk truck ... Oilfield Truck Driving experience a plus. * Forklift certified preferred. * Haz Mat CDL endorsement ...

Ormat Technologies, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Rio Vista, CA ยท On-site

$23 - $32.38/hr

This position is also responsible for the job rig-up and rig-down and for operating the bulk truck ... Oilfield Truck Driving experience a plus. * Forklift certified preferred. * Haz Mat CDL endorsement ...

C&J Well Services, LLC

Crew Worker-Ventura, CA

Ventura, CA ยท On-site

$12.75 - $16.75/hr

Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and ... One-year prior work in an oilfield services environment or with/around heavy industrial machinery ...

C&J Well Services, LLC

Crew Worker

Bakersfield, CA ยท On-site

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and ... One-year prior work in an oilfield services environment or completion of CJWS Trainee program.

C&J Well Services, LLC

Crew Worker-Ventura, CA

Ventura, CA ยท On-site

$12.75 - $16.75/hr

Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and ... One-year prior work in an oilfield services environment or with/around heavy industrial machinery ...

C&J Well Services, LLC

Floorhand

Bakersfield, CA ยท On-site

Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and ... One-year prior work in an oilfield services environment or with/around heavy industrial machinery ...

C&J Well Services, LLC

Crew Worker

Bakersfield, CA ยท On-site

$12.50 - $16.25/hr

Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and ... oilfield services environment or completion of CJWS Trainee program. Knowledge, Skills, and ...

C&J Well Services, LLC

Crew Worker

Bakersfield, CA ยท On-site

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and ... One-year prior work in an oilfield services environment or completion of CJWS Trainee program.

C&J Well Services, LLC

Floorhand

Bakersfield, CA ยท On-site

Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and ... One-year prior work in an oilfield services environment or with/around heavy industrial machinery ...

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All JobsOilfield Rig JobsOilfield Rig Jobs in California

Oilfield Rig information

See California salary details

$11

$24

$45

How much do oilfield rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for oilfield rig in California is $24.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.60 and $23.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Oilfield Rig vs Oilfield Derrickhand?

AspectOilfield RigOilfield Derrickhand
Primary RoleEquipment setup, operation, and maintenance of drilling rigsAssists in the operation and maintenance of the drilling derrick and hoisting equipment
Required CertificationsBasic safety training, possibly CDL or specialized rig certificationsSafety training, basic rig operation certifications
Work EnvironmentOn-site at drilling locations, often outdoors in remote areasOn-site in the derrick area, working at heights and with heavy machinery
Industry UsageCommonly referenced in drilling operations and rig setupSpecific to derrick operations and hoisting tasks within drilling crews

In summary, an Oilfield Rig refers to the entire drilling equipment setup and operation, while an Oilfield Derrickhand specializes in working within the derrick, assisting with hoisting and equipment handling. Both roles are essential in drilling operations and share similar safety and technical certifications.

What is an oilfield rig?

Oilfield rigs are large, complex machines used to drill wells into the earth to extract oil and natural gas. These rigs can be located on land or offshore and are equipped with specialized equipment for drilling, pumping, and managing well operations. Oilfield rigs play a critical role in the exploration and production phase of the oil and gas industry, providing the infrastructure needed to reach and produce hydrocarbons from deep underground. The crew working on these rigs includes drillers, roughnecks, engineers, and other specialists, all working together to ensure safe and efficient operations.

What are some common challenges faced by oilfield rig workers, and how can they be managed effectively?

Oilfield Rig workers often encounter challenges such as extreme weather conditions, physically demanding tasks, and extended periods away from home. Effective management includes adhering strictly to safety protocols, participating in regular training programs, and maintaining strong communication with team members. Building physical endurance and resilience, as well as fostering a supportive team environment, are key to overcoming these challenges and ensuring both personal safety and job satisfaction.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an oilfield rig worker?

To thrive as an Oilfield Rig Worker, you need physical stamina, mechanical aptitude, and a solid understanding of safety procedures, often supported by a high school diploma and specialized safety training. Experience with drilling equipment, hydraulic systems, and certifications such as H2S Alive or Well Control are commonly required. Strong teamwork, problem-solving skills, and effective communication set outstanding workers apart. These competencies are crucial for ensuring operational efficiency, maintaining safety standards, and minimizing risks in demanding and hazardous environments.

How much does a job on an oilfield rig pay?

Oilfield rig workers' salaries vary based on experience, role, and location, but entry-level positions such as roustabouts typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, while more skilled roles like drillers and toolpushers can earn over $100,000 per year. Many rig jobs also include overtime pay, shift differentials, and benefits, with some positions requiring certifications like H2S or BOP training.

How do you get hired on an oilfield rig?

To get hired as an oilfield rig worker, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant safety certifications such as H2S and OSHA, and physical fitness for demanding work environments. Applying through staffing agencies, oil companies, or online job boards, along with demonstrating a willingness to work long shifts and in remote locations, increases employment chances.
What are the most commonly searched types of Oilfield Rig jobs in California? The most popular types of Oilfield Rig jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Oilfield Rig jobs? Cities in California with the most Oilfield Rig job openings:
Oilfield Rig jobs near you
Infographic showing various Oilfield Rig job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,096 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Rig Operator

C&J Well Services, LLC

Bakersfield, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Key Accountabilities
  • Directs other crew members in rigging up guy-lines, various equipment, and tools; lifts, removes, installs, and operates wellhead, pumping units, matting boards, tubing, rods, casing, rod strippers, polish rods, stripper heads, and other production equipment in a manner consistent with safe operating procedures to perform the contracted services.
  • Positions the rig, raises and lowers the mast.
  • Directs the crew members in performing routine maintenance and repair activities of the rig and rig tools.
  • Conducts Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment, and Risk Mitigation.
  • Conducts safety meetings and performs pre-job briefs with his crew members and other service providers on site.
  • Completes the Field Service Reports, documenting services performed, equipment used, billable consumables, and compensable crew time.
  • Interacts positively with customer representatives on location to ensure proper job execution and customer satisfaction.
  • Conducts route planning.
  • Conducts safety observations.
  • Develops and reviews Job Safety Plans (JSP).
  • Completes equipment inspections and audits.
  • May be required to drive a company, light, or DOT-regulated commercial vehicle.
  • Performs all duties in compliance with Customer and Company policies and procedures and applicable regulations.
  • Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and safe work procedures.
  • Complies with all the Company's Safety and Environmental policies, practices, and programs. Takes corrective action within training limitations. Escalates as necessary.
  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Education, Certificates, Licenses
  • Motor Vehicle Record qualifies the individual to be an approved company driver required.
  • Commercial driver's license preferred.
  • Well Control training required within 30 days.

Experience
  • Two years or more of recent, workover rig operating or oil well servicing experience.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Critical:
  • Ability to wear personal protective equipment and/or safety equipment including safety glasses, face shields, goggles, earmuffs/plugs, steel toe boots, hard hat, full body harness with applicable fall protection devices, SCBA (Self Contained Breathing Apparatus), H2S detectors, slicker or TYVEK suits and gloves.
  • Knowledge of company and client policies, DOT and HSE standards and guidelines.
  • Ability to comply with the client's and the company's safe operating procedures. All activities are to be performed consistent with the company's Safe Operating Procedures, to provide the maximum protection for all workers at the work site, the environment, and the equipment; and to complete the tasks efficiently.

Required:
  • Basic knowledge of downhole conditions and desired outcome from an intervention.
  • Ability to perform the primary thinking called for and encompassed by the overall job description.
  • Ability to make quick decision-making and problem-solving skills to address unexpected challenges.
  • Skilled in driving rig and other heavy equipment.
  • Ability to perform and plan rig operations and services.
  • Ability to read and follow job plans.
  • Ability to direct crew members in their daily activities.
  • Ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with team members, supervisors, and other personnel on the job site to ensure the efficient and safe completion of tasks.
  • Ability to participate in and contribute to the collaborative resolution of challenges and issues within a team setting.
  • Ability to work at heights up to or greater than 50 feet.
  • Demonstrated dependability i.e. reporting for work at the prescribed location and on time.
  • Ability to work beyond the traditional 8-hour work day; available to work Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays, to meet operational needs.

Desired:
  • Awareness of and familiarity with oilfield operations, including understanding the layout of well sites, pipelines, and other infrastructure.

  • Certification in First Aid, CPR, H2S, confined space entry, and defensive driver.
  • Commercial driver's license.

Work Environment
This role works primarily in a non-office environment. In this capacity, incumbents are regularly:
  • Exposed to outdoor elements such as extreme heat or cold, heavy winds, rain, or snow.
  • Exposed to loud noise level elements.
  • Required to drive to and access job sites, in light of day as well as in darkness, to perform work assignments. Some job site locations may be remote from the office requiring long drives to locations isolated from interaction with others and towns.
  • Required to balance, bend, squat, crouch, climb, reach, grasp, stoop, kneel, push/pull and lift objects, and use apparatus to push/pull and lift heavy objects weighing 50 lbs or more.
  • Subject to exposure to hazards such as but not limited to slippery or uneven surfaces; environmental/industry hazards such as chemicals, high-decibel noise from production equipment, fumes, or poor ventilation; proximity to moving objects and vehicles; potentially combustible components; hazardous off- road conditions such as dust, ice, and snow.
  • May be requested to work long hours to complete job assignments.
  • May work a rotating schedule, shift, and/or be on call.
  • Follow all company safety policies and protocols.
  • Required to perform active, physical tasks including but not limited to operating equipment and/or machinery and making adjustments and repairs.
  • Required to have visual acuity to work with parts, equipment, apparatus, etc.
  • Required to possess audible acuity to hear alarms in the event of emergency. field locations.

This job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties nor account for all abilities required to perform the job. It is a general description of the nature of the position.
The pay range for this position in California is between $29.32 per hour and $30.43 per hour. Please note that the hourly rate information is a general guideline, and that the hourly rate will vary depending on your location. C&J Well Services, LLC ("CJWS") will consider factors such as (but not limited to) scope of responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer. excellent benefits including full health benefits, 401(k) with company match and immediate vesting, and generous paid time off.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
C&J Well Services, LLC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
LINK to Equal Employment Opportunity Posters:
https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/ofccpost.htm
Reasonable Accommodation Notice
If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact Human Resources at 661-589-5220 or CJWSHR@cjws.com.
Pay Transparency Notice
C&J Well Services, LLC ("CJWS") will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against an applicant or employee because they have inquired about or discussed compensation.
Notice to Third Party Agencies
Please note that C&J Well Services, LLC ("CJWS") does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the absence of a signed Recruitment Agreement, CJWS will not consider or agree to payment of any referral compensation or recruiter fee. In the event a recruiter or agency submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed agreement, CJWS explicitly reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers, will not be reviewed or considered in part of the application process.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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