1

Rig Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Driller - Eastern Coring

Wytheville, VA · On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

... trays; assist with rig-up/rig-down and site moves; fuel equipment and perform basic operator/PM service (greasing, oil changes, housekeeping); complete pre-start, daily site, and rig inspections ...

Driller - Eastern Coring

Wytheville, VA · On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

... trays; assist with rig-up/rig-down and site moves; fuel equipment and perform basic operator/PM service (greasing, oil changes, housekeeping); complete pre-start, daily site, and rig inspections ...

Rigger - 1st-Norfolk,Virginia

Norfolk, VA

$23.25 - $30/hr

... rig • Transport hub - trailer/boom dolly (Preferred) • Assist in proper sling/grommet hook up - hull • Dry-Dock Related Shafting Work • Assist in method of removal - pad eye placement ...

... rig • Transport hub - trailer/boom dolly (Preferred) • Assist in proper sling/grommet hook up - hull • Dry-Dock Related Shafting Work • Assist in method of removal - pad eye placement ...

Rigger

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$41K - $74K/yr

... rig • Transport hub - trailer/boom dolly (Preferred) • Assist in proper sling/grommet hook up - hull • Dry-Dock Related Shafting Work • Assist in method of removal - pad eye placement ...

Rigger - 1st

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$22.25 - $28.50/hr

... rig • Transport hub - trailer/boom dolly (Preferred) • Assist in proper sling/grommet hook up - hull • Dry-Dock Related Shafting Work • Assist in method of removal - pad eye placement ...

Rigger - 2nd Shift

Hampton, VA · On-site

$29 - $35/hr

... rig • Transport hub - trailer/boom dolly (Preferred) • Assist in proper sling/grommet hook up - hull • Dry-Dock Related Shafting Work • Assist in method of removal - pad eye placement ...

Rigger

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$41K - $74K/yr

... rig • Transport hub - trailer/boom dolly (Preferred) • Assist in proper sling/grommet hook up - hull • Dry-Dock Related Shafting Work • Assist in method of removal - pad eye placement ...

Rigger - 2nd Shift

Newport News, VA · On-site

$29 - $35/hr

... rig • Transport hub - trailer/boom dolly (Preferred) • Assist in proper sling/grommet hook up - hull • Dry-Dock Related Shafting Work • Assist in method of removal - pad eye placement ...

Rigger - 1st

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$22.75 - $29.50/hr

... rig • Transport hub - trailer/boom dolly (Preferred) • Assist in proper sling/grommet hook up - hull • Dry-Dock Related Shafting Work • Assist in method of removal - pad eye placement ...

... rig • Transport hub - trailer/boom dolly (Preferred) • Assist in proper sling/grommet hook up - hull • Dry-Dock Related Shafting Work • Assist in method of removal - pad eye placement ...

Rigger - 2nd Shift

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$29 - $35/hr

... rig • Transport hub - trailer/boom dolly (Preferred) • Assist in proper sling/grommet hook up - hull • Dry-Dock Related Shafting Work • Assist in method of removal - pad eye placement ...

Rigger - 1st

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$21.50 - $27.75/hr

... rig • Transport hub - trailer/boom dolly (Preferred) • Assist in proper sling/grommet hook up - hull • Dry-Dock Related Shafting Work • Assist in method of removal - pad eye placement ...

Rigger - 1st

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$25 - $32.50/hr

... rig • Transport hub - trailer/boom dolly (Preferred) • Assist in proper sling/grommet hook up - hull • Dry-Dock Related Shafting Work • Assist in method of removal - pad eye placement ...

Rigger - 1st

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$22 - $28.25/hr

... rig • Transport hub - trailer/boom dolly (Preferred) • Assist in proper sling/grommet hook up - hull • Dry-Dock Related Shafting Work • Assist in method of removal - pad eye placement ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Rig Assistant information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$23

$40

How much do rig assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for rig assistant in Virginia is $23.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.53 and $26.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a rig assistant?

Rig Assistants are entry-level workers who support drilling operations on oil and gas rigs. They perform a variety of tasks such as handling tools, maintaining equipment, cleaning the rig, and assisting more experienced crew members. Rig Assistants play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of drilling operations. The position often requires physical stamina, attention to safety protocols, and the ability to work long shifts in challenging environments.

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

To thrive as a Rig Assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic mechanical aptitude, and knowledge of safety procedures. Familiarity with rig equipment, hand tools, and safety certifications such as H2S Alive or First Aid/CPR are commonly required. Strong teamwork, communication, and a willingness to learn help individuals excel in this physically demanding and fast-paced environment. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensuring the safety, efficiency, and smooth operation of drilling activities on the rig.

What are some common challenges faced by rig assistants, and how can they prepare to handle them?

Rig Assistants often work in physically demanding environments, with long shifts and exposure to harsh weather conditions. A key challenge is maintaining safety while performing tasks such as equipment handling, cleaning, and assisting with rig operations. To prepare, it’s important to develop strong communication skills, a good understanding of safety protocols, and a commitment to teamwork. Staying physically fit and being proactive about learning from experienced crew members can also help new Rig Assistants adapt quickly and perform effectively.

What is the difference between Rig Assistant vs Drilling Operator?

AspectRig AssistantDrilling Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical certifications, experience in drilling operations
Work EnvironmentOffshore/onshore drilling rigs, physically demanding, team-basedOffshore/onshore rigs, more technical responsibilities, supervisory elements
Employer & Industry UsageOil & gas exploration companies, drilling contractorsOil & gas companies, drilling service providers

The Rig Assistant typically performs supportive tasks on drilling rigs, focusing on safety and equipment handling, while the Drilling Operator takes on more technical and operational responsibilities, often overseeing drilling processes. Both roles are essential in the drilling industry but differ in scope and level of technical expertise.

What are the most commonly searched types of Rig jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Rig jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Rig Assistant jobs in Virginia? For Rig Assistant jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Rig Assistant jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Rig Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Rig Assistant job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,015 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Driller - Eastern Coring

Boart Longyear

Wytheville, VA • On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Boart Longyear rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 40 rated mining


Job description

CORE DRILLER — LEAD WITH SAFETY, GROW WITH STABILITY

Safety, Stability & Financial Security: For over 135 years, Boart Longyear has helped people build safe, stable careers with the opportunity to support their families and plan for secure futures.

You've mastered the rig. Now choose the employer that matches your standards. Join the team that runs reliable equipment, provides opportunities for growth, and sets a clear ladder from Lead Driller ➞ Field Supervisor ➞ Leadership — without forcing you behind a desk 24/7. Boart Longyear achieves drilling excellence by prioritizing our people. Reliable schedules, strong safety standards, and benefits designed for families — so you can focus on what matters most.

Why this Role Fits You:

• Predictable Home Time – 14–20 days on / 7–10 days off, with a regular cadence so your family calendar stays intact.

• Lead & Mentor – Run a crew of 2–3 assistants, teach safe habits, and earn bonuses tied to performance, safety, and zero‐incident shifts.

• Performance Pay – Bonus structure rewards completed jobs, extra effort, and spotless safety record.

• If you're a hands‐on leader who keeps rigs turning and crews safe, Boart Longyear will invest in your continued growth.

Responsibilities:

The following is a general list of duties and responsibilities that may be adjusted from time to time by your supervisor.

  • Safety is PARAMOUNT in our business. You must follow all established policies, procedures and best practices as well as the law at all times.
  • Operate the drill and lead a small crew while supporting all site operations: make/break connections (add/remove rods); handle rods/tools and perform manual material handling; haul supplies to/from the drill site; mix drilling fluids; collect, label, and organize samples and build chip trays; assist with rig-up/rig-down and site moves; fuel equipment and perform basic operator/PM service (greasing, oil changes, housekeeping); complete pre-start, daily site, and rig inspections; maintain accurate parts/supplies inventory; perform basic measurements/calculations; provide site inductions to visitors; and maintain/document the condition and service life of equipment and tooling.
  • Prepare daily reports of all drilling activities. Some examples of these reports are: reflect footage drilled, time spent performing other activities besides drilling, timekeeping for payroll purposes and reporting supplies consumed
  • Participate in weekly safety and daily line out meetings.
  • May be required to operate non-drilling equipment such as light or heavy vehicles, cranes, tele handlers, forklift, skidders, track-mounted utility vehicles, etc.
  • Monitor a safe workplace, maintain workplace safety and apply risk management processes for elimination of work-related injuries, damage to equipment and incident-related lost time.
  • Maintain accurate operating records, including daily drill reports and inventory logs.
  • Contribute to and establish effective workplace relationships.
  • Provide training through instruction and demonstration of work skills, coaching and mentoring to other field employees.
  • As an employee you must perform all your duties in a safe manner, taking care of the equipment and co-workers that you work with.
  • You will be responsible for the general condition and obtaining optimum life out of all site equipment and tools.
  • You may be responsible for the training of new Driller Assistants in a safe environment.
  • Be physically fit for work.
  • Work under the instructions of a driller/drilling field supervisor or division manager. Daily routine work is accomplished with more or less direction depending on the level of competency.
  • Work safely and follow EHS policies and procedures and conduct local risk control.
  • Have the ability to apply first aid.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • 2-3 year of consistent experience as a Driller or Driller Assistant in Drilling, Mining, or adjacent/related industry.
  • Previous experience in related positions such as: construction laborer, heavy laborer, mechanic, and mechanical work.
  • Excellent in communicating with clients and supervisor and be able to work positively with others
  • Must have a complete knowledge of mechanics as related to drill rigs, diesel, hydraulics, electrical
  • Ability to personally handle heavy wrenches, lift and/or carry heavy tools or supplies and operate levers with both hands
  • Willing to travel by plane or car to worksites throughout Nevada, Utah, Arizona, Idaho and other states where we do business.
  • Able to commute long distances for shifts (300+ miles)
  • Willing to work in remote locations and in all-weather elements
  • Willing to work at job sites for an extended period of time, 12+ hour shifts for 14-20 days at a time
  • Must have a valid U.S. Driver's License and capable of acquiring CDL.
  • Must have valid U.S. Work Authorization
  • Must pass background and drug screening
  • Must pass a Physical Functional Fitness Evaluation
  • High School diploma or GED or equivalent

Compensation, Benefits and Perks:

Boart Longyear matches your expertise with earning power and family support:

  • Strong Day Rate + Overtime – First‐year total comp typically $95k‐$125k with overtime & bonuses.
  • Medical, Dental, Vision – Full family coverage options from Day 1 of first full month of employment.
  • 401(k) Match & Financial Coaching – Plan for long‐term security.
  • Travel on Us, Per Diem in Your Pocket — Focus on the work, not the logistics: airfare covered and a steady per diem.
  • Gear & Allowances – Company‐funded PPE, boot allowance, and work attire.
  • BRAVO Recognition – Cash and swag awards for safety milestones and innovation.

Company Overview:

About Boart Longyear

Since 1890, Boart Longyear has led the way in drilling services, orebody knowledge technology, and productivity-driven equipment for mining and exploration. We support projects across copper, gold, nickel, zinc, uranium, and more—with additional work in energy, oil sands, and environmental sectors.

What You'll Be Part Of:

  • Global Drilling Services: At Boart Longyear Drilling Services, you'll join a world-leading provider of contract drilling solutions with a legacy of safe and reliable performance since 1890. Our Drilling Services division delivers a full range of drilling capabilities — including mineral exploration, water services, production drilling, reverse circulation, sonic, surface and underground coring — for a diverse global customer base spanning copper, gold, nickel, zinc, uranium and other critical commodities. We are recognized for innovative solutions, technical expertise, and operational excellence in some of the most challenging environments worldwide, backed by deep investment in safety, people, and equipment.

Our People & Values:

Great ideas come from diverse teams. We foster an inclusive, respectful environment where everyone is heard. Our vision: lead the industry in safety, innovation, and productivity. Our values: Integrity, Health & Safety, Teamwork & Diversity, Customer Focus, and Sustainability.

Headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah. Learn more at boartlongyear.com and follow us on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/boartlongyear) , Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/boartlongyearcareers) , Instagram (https://instagram.com/boartlongyear) and Twitter (https://twitter.com/BoartLongyear) (X).

Interested? Apply now at https://careers.boartlongyear.com/ . Boart Longyear is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We appreciate all applicants from all backgrounds; only those selected for interview will be contacted.

Job Details

Job Family Drilling Services

Pay Type Hourly


What Boart Longyear employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom