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Rig Hand Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Marcus Well Drilling, Inc.

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Pump Service Technician - Rig Hand

Renville, MN · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Water Pump Service Technician - Rig Hand - Water Line Installer Compensation: $20.00 - $30.00 per hour (Based on Experience & Skill Set) + Overtime/Benefits Are you a skilled problem-solver who ...

Highlands Drilling LLC

Floorhand

Weston, WV

During non-drilling operations, the rig hand's work activities include repair and maintenance of the drilling equipment as directed by the driller, mechanic, or toolpusher. During relocation of the ...

Plants and Goodwin, Inc.

Derrickman

Lore City, OH · On-site

Compensation and Benefits: $22 - $28 / Hour $50 / Day Rig Bonus $55 / Day Per Diem Health, Life, Dental, Vision, and Supplementary Insurance Benefits 401(k) matching Company sponsored CDL Program for ...

Plants and Goodwin, Inc.

Derrickman

Lore City, OH · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Compensation and Benefits: $22 - $28 / Hour $50 / Day Rig Bonus $55 / Day Per Diem Health, Life, Dental, Vision, and Supplementary Insurance Benefits 401(k) matching Company sponsored CDL Program for ...

Coastal Well Service LLC

Righand

Morgantown, WV · On-site

$23.75 - $32.25/hr

During non-drilling operations, the rig hand's work activities include repair and maintenance of the drilling equipment as directed by the driller, mechanic, or toolpusher. During relocation of the ...

Plants and Goodwin, Inc.

Derrickman

Lore City, OH · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Compensation and Benefits: $22 - $28 / Hour $50 / Day Rig Bonus $55 / Day Per Diem Health, Life, Dental, Vision, and Supplementary Insurance Benefits 401(k) matching Company sponsored CDL Program for ...

Highlands Drilling LLC

Floorhand

Weston, WV · On-site

During non-drilling operations, the rig hand's work activities include repair and maintenance of the drilling equipment as directed by the driller, mechanic, or toolpusher. During relocation of the ...

Coastal Well Service LLC

Righand

Snow Shoe, PA

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

During non-drilling operations, the rig hand's work activities include repair and maintenance of the drilling equipment as directed by the driller, mechanic, or toolpusher. During relocation of the ...

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All JobsRig Hand Jobs

RIG HAND information

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$7

$26

$46

How much do rig hand jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for rig hand in the United States is $26.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $36.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Rig Hand, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Rig Hand, you need physical stamina, basic mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with rigging equipment, safety protocols, and certifications like H2S Alive or First Aid are commonly required. Teamwork, attention to detail, and a strong work ethic are valuable soft skills in this demanding environment. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safety, efficiency, and reliability on an oil or gas drilling site.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Rig hands working in the oil and gas industry can earn around $4,000 per week, especially with experience and in high-demand locations. These roles often require physical stamina, technical skills, and safety certifications but typically do not require a college degree. Compensation varies based on location, experience, and the complexity of the work environment.

What Is a Rig Hand?

A rig hand or roughneck is a worker on an oil rig. The term rig hand describes various jobs working on an oil rig. In this career, you are usually responsible for maintaining the drilling rig and equipment on the rig. However, your exact duties depend on the specific position. The lowest position in the rig hierarchy is the leasehand. In this role, you perform general maintenance service on the drilling rig. The next level is the floorhand, who assists in setting up and tearing down the drilling operation. In this position, you are in charge of handling pipe, drilling tools, and other necessary materials on the rig. The next three roles, the motorhand, derrickhand, and driller, are advancement tiers of the rig tech. Their responsibilities include maintaining the rig’s engines, monitoring the drill systems, and manning the drill.

What is the easiest job on an oil rig?

On an oil rig, roles such as roustabout or general laborer are often considered among the less technically demanding positions, involving manual tasks like cleaning, maintenance, and assisting with equipment. These jobs typically require less specialized training but still involve working in challenging environments and following safety protocols.

What is the difference between Rig Hand vs Drilling Operator?

AspectRig HandDrilling Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certificationsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentOffshore/onshore oil rigs, field sitesOffshore/onshore drilling sites, oil rigs
Employer & IndustryOil & gas companies, drilling contractorsOil & gas companies, drilling contractors
Job FocusAssisting with rig operations, equipment handlingOperating drilling equipment, managing drilling processes

While both Rig Hands and Drilling Operators work on oil rigs and in drilling environments, Rig Hands primarily assist with rig operations and equipment handling, whereas Drilling Operators operate and manage the drilling machinery. The roles often overlap, but Drilling Operators typically require more technical training and have a greater focus on operating complex equipment.

What are rig hands?

Rig hands, also known as roughnecks, are entry-level workers who perform manual labor on oil and gas drilling rigs. Their responsibilities include maintaining equipment, assisting with drilling operations, cleaning the rig, and handling tools and materials. Rig hands work long hours in physically demanding and sometimes hazardous conditions, often in remote locations. This position is critical to the smooth and safe operation of drilling activities.

What are some typical challenges a Rig Hand faces during their shift, and how can they best prepare for them?

Rig Hands often work long hours in physically demanding and sometimes harsh outdoor environments. Common challenges include handling heavy equipment, maintaining safety protocols in unpredictable weather, and quickly adapting to the fast pace of drilling operations. To prepare, it’s important to maintain good physical fitness, stay well-rested, and familiarize yourself thoroughly with safety procedures. Being proactive in communication and teamwork also helps address issues quickly and keeps operations running smoothly.

What is the highest paying hands-on job?

For rig hands, the highest paying roles are often those with specialized skills such as drillers or toolpushers, who oversee drilling operations and can earn six-figure salaries. Experience, certifications, and working in remote or challenging environments typically contribute to higher compensation in hands-on industrial jobs.

How much does a rig hand make?

A rig hand in Texas typically earns between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the rig. Overtime, certifications, and working conditions can also influence pay rates.
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RIG HAND jobs near you
Rig Operator-C- Odessa, TX - 2007

Rig Operator-C- Odessa, TX - 2007

Key Energy Services

Odessa, TX • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Summary:
This position is responsible for the operation of the rig, crew and equipment and for ensuring customer satisfaction with all services rendered. Incumbent ensures that all crew are at the rig and ready to work at scheduled time, and maintains productivity standards for all rig functions.
This position has a dotted line reporting line to: Service Line Manager or Operations Superintendent.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Ensures all crew members are at the rig and prepared to work at scheduled time.
  • Operates the assigned rig and equipment in accordance with the contractual terms and conditions as requested or designated by the customers.
  • Maintains regular contact and communication with customers to resolve concerns, issues and complaints.
  • Ensures that quality products and services are provided to the customers including maintaining productivity standards for all rig functions, following safety procedures for a safe working environment for all rig employees, and adhering to all applicable governmental regulations for compliance.
  • Ensures efficient maintenance of assigned rig and equipment.
  • Establishes and maintains a positive and safe work environment for the assigned rig crew, including training and coaching them in carrying out their assigned duties on the rig.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.
  • Wears proper safety equipment on the job (when applicable)
    a. Goggles, face shields or safety glasses
    b. Ear plugs/muffs
    c. Steel toed boots.
    d. Hard hats
    e. Safety belts
    f. Anti-fall devices
    g. SCBA (Self-contained Breathing Apparatus)
    h. H2S detectors
    i. Slicker or tyvek chemical suits
    j. Gloves
    K. FR uniforms

Qualifications:
  • Must have rig operation experience and be able to demonstrate full competency in rigging up/rigging down and well servicing operations. Minimum two or more years experience in rig and well servicing operations.
  • Knowledge and experience in oilfield well servicing is required.
  • Must possess CDL B drivers license to drive rig.
  • Must meet all qualifications defined in Motor Vehicle Policy.
  • Ability to effectively communicate with people within and outside of the company.
  • Ability to lead or provide guidance to crew members to work safely and efficiently.
  • Multi-tasking and basic problem solving skills required; organizational skills preferred.
  • Must pass post-employment drug/alcohol urinalysis.
  • Must pass post-offer "Essential Job Functions Test."
  • Must pass DOT-drug and physical test if required by state and federal government.

Education Requirements:
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent preferred.

Key Energy Services (Key) is an equal opportunity employer. Key does not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, disability, national origin, age, genetic information, military status, status as a Vietnam-era or special disabled veteran, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local laws.

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