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Rig Chief Mechanic Jobs (NOW HIRING)

EMC Engineering Services

CMT Drill Crew Chief

Martinez, GA · On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

Job Title CMT Drill Crew Chief Location Augusta - Martinez, GA 30907 US (Primary) Education High ... drill rig, support truck and other equipment * Must be able to diagnose mechanical problems and ...

Novelis

Industrial Mechanic*

Warren, OH

$34.92/hr

Use of overhead cranes, hand trucks and power fork trucks to rig, load and unload, rolls, materials ... MK -- Machinery Technician Marine Corps * 1169 -- Utilities Chief * 1345 -- Engineer Equipment ...

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Rig Chief Mechanic information

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$33K

$124.4K

$200.5K

How much do rig chief mechanic jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for rig chief mechanic in the United States is $124,409.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,000.00 and $146,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Rig Chief Mechanic, you need extensive mechanical knowledge, strong troubleshooting abilities, and typically a technical diploma or degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with rig-specific equipment, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, and certifications such as BOSIET or IWCF are commonly required. Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help manage maintenance teams and ensure safe operations. These competencies are crucial for minimizing downtime, maintaining safety standards, and ensuring the reliable functioning of rig machinery.

What are Rig Chief Mechanics?

Rig Chief Mechanics are responsible for overseeing the maintenance, repair, and safe operation of all mechanical equipment on a drilling rig. They lead a team of mechanics, troubleshoot mechanical issues, and ensure compliance with safety and operational standards. Their work is critical to minimizing equipment downtime and preventing accidents on oil and gas rigs, both offshore and onshore. Rig Chief Mechanics often coordinate with other departments and keep detailed records of all maintenance activities.

How much does a mechanic make on an oil rig?

A rig chief mechanic on an oil rig typically earns between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment. They are responsible for maintaining and repairing heavy machinery and often work in challenging offshore environments with specialized certifications required.

What is the highest paid job on an oil rig?

The highest paid job on an oil rig is typically the Drilling Supervisor or Tool Pusher, who oversees drilling operations and ensures safety and efficiency. These roles require extensive experience, certifications, and leadership skills, and they often earn six-figure salaries due to the demanding environment and responsibility involved.

What is the difference between Rig Chief Mechanic vs Drilling Supervisor?

AspectRig Chief MechanicDrilling Supervisor
CertificationsMechanical certifications, offshore safety trainingDrilling certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentMechanical workshop, offshore rigsOffshore rigs, on-site supervision
Primary ResponsibilitiesMaintaining and repairing drilling equipmentOverseeing drilling operations and safety

The Rig Chief Mechanic focuses on maintaining and repairing drilling equipment, requiring mechanical skills and certifications. In contrast, the Drilling Supervisor oversees the entire drilling operation, emphasizing safety and operational management. Both roles are essential on offshore rigs but differ in their core responsibilities and required expertise.

What are some common challenges Rig Chief Mechanics face when managing maintenance schedules on offshore rigs?

Rig Chief Mechanics often encounter challenges in balancing the maintenance schedule with drilling operations, as unexpected equipment issues or urgent repairs can arise at any time. Coordinating with drilling supervisors and other departments is essential to minimize downtime and ensure safety standards are met. Adapting to harsh offshore environments and managing a diverse team also requires strong leadership and problem-solving skills. Clear communication and proactive planning are key to overcoming these challenges and keeping the rig running smoothly.

What is the highest paid mechanic field?

In the mechanic field, specialized roles such as aircraft, industrial machinery, or offshore rig mechanics tend to be the highest paid due to their technical complexity and demanding environments. For example, offshore rig mechanics often earn higher wages because of the remote locations and hazardous conditions involved. Experience, certifications, and working in high-risk industries significantly influence salary levels for mechanics.

What is the role of a chief rig mechanic?

A chief rig mechanic is responsible for overseeing the maintenance, repair, and operation of drilling equipment on an oil or gas rig. They ensure machinery functions safely and efficiently, often supervising a team of mechanics and working with technical manuals and diagnostic tools. The role requires technical skills, certifications, and adherence to safety standards in a demanding environment.
More about Rig Chief Mechanic jobs
What cities are hiring for Rig Chief Mechanic jobs? Cities with the most Rig Chief Mechanic job openings:
What states have the most Rig Chief Mechanic jobs? States with the most job openings for Rig Chief Mechanic jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Rig Chief Mechanic jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Rig Chief Mechanic jobs are:
Rig Chief Mechanic jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rig Chief Mechanic job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,409 per year, or $59.8 per hour.
Transportation Worker 4 Crew Chief - Harrison County

Transportation Worker 4 Crew Chief - Harrison County

West Virginia Department of Transportation

Charleston, WV • On-site

$57K - $62K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

West Virginia Department Of Transportation rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

730th of 832 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Salary : $57,686.30 - $62,657.50 Annually
Location : District 4, 2460 Murphy's Run Rd., Bridgeport, WV
Job Type: Full-Time Permanent
Job Number: DOT27D4008A
Division: West Virginia Department of Transportation
District/Subdivision: District 4
Opening Date: 07/23/2026
Closing Date: 7/29/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Nature of Work
**Disclaimer-this position will be considered classified-exempt and "at will."
The Transportation Worker 4 Crew Chief will report to the District Heavy Maintenance Department. This position, under limited supervision, will act as a working crew leader, leading a crew participating in Heavy Maintenance or Bridge Departments. Assist in the scheduling and maintenance of crew members for daily projects and oversee the completion of work. Will coordinate the equipment and materials needed for upcoming jobs. Complete reports concerning time, materials, and inspection of work done. Will be required to become certified on one or more of the following types of equipment: hydraulic crane, grader, bulldozer, backhoe, track/rubber-tire excavator, or welding unit. May be exposed to inclement weather and hazardous working conditions. Performs other related duties as required.
  • The selected applicant will be placed in a U.S. Department of Labor apprenticeship program. Progression through the apprenticeship program is dependent upon hours completed, proficiency in work, training completed, as well as maintaining and/or obtaining a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). However, a Transportation Worker 4 Crew Chief is excluded, and the applicant will not be placed within a U.S. Department of Labor apprenticeship program.
  • The WVDOT is responsible for the planning, construction, maintenance, and regulation of over 35,000 miles of state roads. This duty may necessitate employees working irregular hours, shifts, weekends, and more than 40 hours per week, occasionally without prior notice.
  • In the area of assignment of Transportation Worker 3 Crew Chief, the applicant is excluded from being placed within a U.S. Department of Labor apprenticeship program. In the area of assignment of Crew Chief, a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) will be required within six (6) months of employment.
  • Pay Grade 15H
    Tier 3 hourly rate: $30.1238

Typical Duties and Responsibilities
  • Leads a crew of transportation workers and participates in the Heavy Maintenance, Bridge Departments, and Core Drilling Crews.
  • Assists in scheduling maintenance and repair projects.
  • Coordinates equipment and materials needed.
  • Assigns duties to crew members and leads crews in the completion of projects.
  • Completes all required reports concerning time and attendance, materials, equipment, and inspection of work.
  • Travel may be required; therefore, a valid driver's license is required.
  • In the area of assignment of Crew Chief, a valid class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) will be required within six (6) months of employment.

Skills and Knowledge
• Knowledge of advanced-level methods, materials, tools, and equipment used in the maintenance and repair of gasoline and diesel-powered equipment.
• Knowledge of the operation of trucks equipped to reach under bridges.
• Knowledge of the Division of Highways Equipment Management System.
• Knowledge of the standard safety procedures of the Division of Highways.
• Knowledge of the nomenclature, use, and maintenance of welding equipment and cutting equipment.
• Knowledge of acetylene, propane, and other gases, characteristic dangers, and uses with welding and cutting equipment.
• Knowledge of welding rod specifications as outlined by the American Welding Society (AWS).
• Knowledge of basic mathematics.
• Knowledge of melting temperatures of various metals used in bridge maintenance and repair.
• Knowledge of materials, design, and assembly procedures used in welding.
• Knowledge of the type of rock, aggregate, and soil found in core drilling.
• Knowledge of safety practices for core drilling work.
• Skilled in the manipulation of levers and other controls that move articulating booms.
• Skilled in the use of tools and equipment used in the repair of motor-driven equipment.
• Ability to diagnose mechanical problems and determine appropriate procedures for repairs.
• Ability to train lower-level mechanics.
• Ability to read and lay out plans.
• Ability to cut and fit metal components in the rebuilding or repair of equipment or high steel structures.
• Ability to regulate fuel pressure gauges on gas welding and cutting equipment.
• Ability to climb high steel structures.
• Ability to operate welding equipment used in highway bridge maintenance.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to operate a drilling rig, water pump, air compressor, and related equipment to drill for core samples.
• Ability to operate a heavy truck to transport a drilling rig and related equipment.
• Ability to assemble drilling rig and related equipment.
• Ability to classify types of rock, aggregate, and soils from core drilling.
• Ability to perform minor maintenance on the drilling rig and related equipment.
• Ability to maintain simple records (timecards, work repair orders).
Minimum Requirements
REQUIRED TRAINING/EDUCATION: No formal education required.
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE:
  • Crew Chief Required Experience: Five (5) years of full-time or equivalent part-time paid experience in roadway construction or roadway maintenance, or in bridge or structural steel construction comparable to the work performed by the Department of Transportation.
  • No Substitutions.

Annual Increment Pay
Paid Vacation
Paid Holidays
Paid Sick Leave
Family Medical Leave
Leave Donation Program
Military Leave
Employee Education Reimbursement & Leave Program
Flexible Work Schedules
Training Opportunities
Promotion Opportunities
Public Employees' Retirement System:
  1. Employees enrolled in PERS Tier 1 contribute 4.5% of their gross salary. The Employer contributes 9%.
  2. Employees enrolled in PERS Tier 2 contribute 6.0% of their gross salary. The Employer contributes 9%.

Deferred Compensation
Health Insurance Enrollment
Additional Coverage Options including Dental, Vision, Flexible Spending Accounts,
Disability Insurance and more.
Life Insurance
Credit Union
Employee Discounts

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