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Rig Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AKITA Drilling

Rig Manager

Midland, TX · On-site

Ensure good communication between the Engineering and personnel departments, in arranging off site training and recruiting, maintaining / upgrading rig and associated equipment. Ensuring compliance ...

NABORS

*Rig Equipment Support Technician

Houston, TX · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Experience with drilling rig operations and equipment is required. The ability to gather ... By leveraging its core competencies, particularly in drilling, engineering, automation, data ...

Florence Copper

Pump Rig Operator

Florence, AZ

Pump Rig Operator Department: Drilling Reports to: Pulling Unit Superintendent Location: Florence ... Collaborate with wellfield technicians and engineers to coordinate pump installations, replacements ...

Florence Copper

Pump Rig Operator

Florence, AZ · On-site

Pump Rig Operator Department: Drilling Reports to: Pulling Unit Superintendent Location: Florence ... Collaborate with wellfield technicians and engineers to coordinate pump installations, replacements ...

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Rig Engineer information

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$59.5K

$111.6K

$203K

How much do rig engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for rig engineer in the United States is $111,632.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,500.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a rig engineer?

Rig engineers are professionals responsible for overseeing the technical operations and safety of drilling rigs, typically in the oil and gas industry. They manage drilling activities, coordinate with crew members, and ensure that projects are completed efficiently and safely. Rig engineers also troubleshoot mechanical and engineering issues on-site, supervise maintenance, and ensure compliance with environmental and industry regulations. Their work is critical in optimizing drilling performance and minimizing downtime.

What are some common challenges faced by rig engineers when working on offshore drilling projects?

Rig engineers working offshore often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing weather conditions, coordinating with multidisciplinary teams in remote environments, and ensuring strict compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Communication is crucial, as effective collaboration with drilling crews, geologists, and onshore support teams is necessary to address technical issues promptly. Additionally, managing equipment reliability and responding quickly to unexpected operational problems are key aspects of the role.

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

To thrive as a Rig Engineer, you need a strong background in mechanical, civil, or petroleum engineering, typically with a relevant engineering degree and experience in drilling operations. Familiarity with drilling software, well control systems, and safety certifications such as IWCF or IADC Well Control is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure safe, efficient drilling operations and effective coordination among multidisciplinary teams on site.

What is the difference between Rig Engineer vs Drilling Engineer?

AspectRig EngineerDrilling Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in drilling and safetyEngineering degree, specialized in drilling design and operations
Work EnvironmentOn rig sites, overseeing equipment and operationsOffice-based, planning and designing drilling programs
Industry UsageCommonly employed on offshore and onshore rigsFocuses on drilling process planning and optimization

While both roles require engineering backgrounds and involve offshore or onshore drilling operations, Rig Engineers primarily oversee the equipment and day-to-day rig activities, whereas Drilling Engineers focus on designing and planning the drilling process. Both are essential in the drilling industry but serve different functions within the project lifecycle.

How much do rig engineers make?

Rig engineers typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the drilling operations. Senior rig engineers or those working offshore may earn higher salaries and additional benefits. Certifications and specialized skills can also influence compensation levels.

What does a rig engineer do on a rig?

A rig engineer is responsible for designing, maintaining, and troubleshooting the equipment and systems used on drilling rigs. They ensure the safe and efficient operation of the rig's mechanical and hydraulic systems, often working closely with drilling crews and adhering to safety standards. Their role requires technical knowledge of rig machinery, certifications, and the ability to respond quickly to operational issues.
More about Rig Engineer jobs

What states have the most Rig Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Rig Engineer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Rig Engineer jobs?

For Rig Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Rig Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rig Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 92% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,632 per year, or $53.7 per hour.

Rig Manager

Midland, TX • On-site

AKITA Drilling
501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about AKITA Drillingexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Location
Drilling - Permian Basin (TX/NM)
Division
US Drilling Services
Travel
14/14 rotation
EOE Statement
We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.
Description
Rig managers are responsible foroverseeing the day-to-day operations of drilling rigs, well sites, and other industrial equipment. They ensure that all personnel are working safely and efficiently to complete their assigned tasks. Rig managers are also tasked with budgeting and managing relationships with vendors or suppliers.
Essential Duties Include:
Responding to the requests of the Operations Manager, and the Field Supervisor.
Managing all activities on location with the rig, crew and the equipment.
Assess crew-member competencies, and determine training needs.
Ensure all required documentation is maintained, including certifications and daily tour reports.
Execute approved training, and operational plans; directing drilling crews as required.
Communicating with the oil company representative (clients).
Ensure compliance to policies and programs for all individuals reporting to the drilling site.
Ensuring maintenance of the rig equipment is completed as company dictates.
Ensure good communication between the Engineering and personnel departments, in arranging off site training and recruiting, maintaining / upgrading rig and associated equipment.
Ensuring compliance with government, oil company, and rig company regulations, policies and practices.
Organizing the rig move and the moving/ spotting of the rig, and equipment on location.
Keeping all records up to date.
Manage maintenance and equipment upgrades within financial limitations as determined by Management. Maintaining all documentation on a daily and monthly basis.
Prepare and conduct site safety meetings.
Monitor and correct activities and / or behavior, to ensure compliance to environmental policy and procedures.
Prepare and submit daily reports to Operations
Position Requirements
Qualified candidates require:
• A minimum of 5 years experience in the field as a driller or higher position
• IADC Rig Pass/Safeland
• Valid Drivers License and able to meet company vehicle driving qualifications
Related certifications/tickets for this role:
• H2S and First Aid
• Fall Protection, Confined Space, and Loader Training
• Gas Monitoring, Boiler Ticket, Rig Rescue, and Fire Exit
• Supervisor Well Control
Position
Rig Manager
About the Organization
AKITA Drilling is an onshore drilling rig service provider that works with leading operators around the world. We pride ourselves on building relationships with our clients and see every project as a partnership.
Our goal at AKITA Drilling is to hire people who want to establish or further their career in the drilling industry. We are in this industry for the long term, and we are looking to attract candidates who share our vision! Take a look at what career opportunities AKITA Drilling can offer you.
This position is currently accepting applications.

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