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Rig Hand Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

A Rig Up Hand will assist with safely and efficiently rigging-up/rigging-down various jobs on ... Learn to communicate with operator representatives on reports/paperwork including but not limited ...

A Rig Up Hand will assist with safely and efficiently rigging-up/rigging-down various jobs on ... Learn to communicate with operator representatives on reports/paperwork including but not limited ...

Job Summary Directly oversees operating the job site, including basic maintenance of equipment ... Performs other duties as assigned, which may include working in another role (ie rig hand) or in ...

Job Summary Directly oversees operating the job site, including basic maintenance of equipment ... Performs other duties as assigned, which may include working in another role (ie rig hand) or in ...

Duties & Responsibilities: * Assist with rig up/down operations * Unload equipment on location ... Ability to follow and implement all Flare standard operating procedures as required * Drive ...

Rig Up Hand

Monahans, TX · On-site

$14 - $15/hr

Duties & Responsibilities: * Assist with rig up/down operations * Unload equipment on location ... Ability to follow and implement all Flare standard operating procedures as required * Drive ...

Communicate effectively with the Operator and ground crew. * Perform or assist with snubbing and ... Excellent spatial awareness and hand-eye coordination. * Ability to work independently and in a ...

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Rig Hand Operator information

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$26

$46

How much do rig hand operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for rig hand operator 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 is a rig hand operator?

Rig Hand Operators, often simply called rig hands, are entry-level workers on oil and gas drilling rigs. They assist with general labor tasks such as maintaining equipment, cleaning the rig site, and supporting drillers and other crew members. Their responsibilities are vital for the smooth and safe operation of drilling activities. Rig Hand Operators often work long shifts in challenging outdoor environments and must adhere to strict safety protocols. This position is a common starting point for those looking to build a career in the oil and gas industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a rig hand operator?

To thrive as a Rig Hand Operator, you need physical stamina, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often with on-the-job training in oilfield operations. Familiarity with drilling equipment, safety gear, and basic hand and power tools is essential, and some employers may require certifications like H2S Alive or first aid. Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills help you adapt to challenging and dynamic work environments. These abilities are crucial for maintaining safety, efficiency, and productivity on drilling sites.

What are some common challenges faced by rig hand operators during drilling operations, and how can they be managed?

Rig Hand Operators often encounter challenges such as working in extreme weather conditions, handling physically demanding tasks, and maintaining safety standards around heavy machinery. Managing these challenges requires strict adherence to safety protocols, effective communication with team members, and staying alert to changing conditions on the rig. Regular training and a strong teamwork mentality help operators adapt quickly and reduce the risk of accidents, making the work environment safer and more efficient.

What is the difference between Rig Hand Operator vs Derrickhand?

AspectRig Hand OperatorDerrickhand
CredentialsOSHA safety training, basic certificationsOSHA safety training, basic certifications, well control training
Work EnvironmentDrilling rig floor, equipment operationDrilling rig, derrick, handling drill pipe
Industry UsageCommonly employed on drilling rigsWorks closely with Rig Hand Operators on drilling sites

The main difference is that a Rig Hand Operator primarily operates and maintains equipment on the rig floor, while a Derrickhand handles the drill pipe and assists with well operations. Both roles require safety certifications and work in similar environments, but Derrickhands typically have additional training related to well control and pipe handling.

How do you become a rig hand operator?

To become a rig hand operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience working on drilling rigs or in related roles. Training on equipment operation, safety procedures, and sometimes obtaining certifications such as H2S or OSHA is required; on-the-job training is common to develop skills in rig operations and maintenance.

How much does a rig hand operator get paid?

A rig hand operator typically earns between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment operated. Overtime, certifications, and working conditions can also influence pay rates.

What cities are hiring for Rig Hand Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Rig Hand Operator job openings:

What states have the most Rig Hand Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Rig Hand Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Rig Hand Operator jobs?

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

Rig Up Hand

Brownsboro, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Assist with safely rigging-up and rigging-down equipment on location.

  • Load, unload, and stage equipment and supplies at job sites.

  • Maintain, repair, and rebuild equipment in the field and yard.


Job description

Position Summary: A Rig Up Hand will assist with safely and efficiently rigging-up/rigging-down various jobs on location, loading/unloading trailers with necessary equipment and supplies, and cleaning, maintaining and rebuilding equipment in the field as well as in the yard. A Rig-Up Hand (Non-CDL) will not operate a Commercial Motor Vehicle for the company.

This position is designated as a Safety Sensitive position.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Abides by all Well Werks Energy Safety and Operational Policies and Procedures. Must understand and comply with all safety rules and company policies.
  • Must abide by all Customer Safety policies and procedures while on customers job site.
  • Installs, repairs, removes and maintains various company tools and equipment, and exhibit proficiency within a six month period.
  • Work in the shop/yard testing, repairing, cleaning, painting, and maintaining equipment and parts as needed.
  • Assists in pre-job safety meetings to include review of job safety analysis (JSA) process.
  • Maintains open lines of communication with District Manager and various customers before, during and after job completion. Ensures management is appropriately informed of area activities and attends meetings as required.
  • Ensure all necessary equipment & supplies are loaded/staged in order to be at job site when scheduled.
  • Prepare paperwork including, but not limited to, DVIR, JSA, Rig-Up & Rig-Down Sheets, Job Checklist, and Loadout Forms.
  • Assist in maintenance of Equipment, vehicles and trailers in the Field and on location
  • Follow all procedures/polices on rig ups and rig downs
  • Must be able to receive certifications to operate forklifts. Telehandlers, man lifts, and other necessary equipment.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

SPECIALIZED DUTIES BY LEVEL:

  • Level I (6 months minimum or cumulative 1 year previous experience):
    • Learn functions and mechanic of the equipment used in the multiple services provided in Well Testing to include safety systems, pumps, valves, rigging mechanisms, pressure testing equipment, 1502 iron, plug valves, plug valve manifolds, plug catchers/part catchers, sand traps, test separators, flare stacks, generators, pumps/filter pods, compressors SandX tanks, Superloops, DeSanders, hydraulics and combustors.
    • Learn to tear down and reassemble gate valves, plug valves, dump valves, back pressure valves, and pilots.
    • Learn to communicate with managers, Service Company, third party monitors and company personnel on location.
    • Learn to troubleshoot and replace malfunctioning parts on company equipment as well as on completion and production equipment as needed.
    • Learn to maintain equipment repair logs as needed.
    • Learn SOP processes and work instructions for the multiple services provided in the Well Testing Product Line per specific district.
    • Learn to communicate with operator representatives on reports/paperwork including but not limited to damage reports, invoices, equipment tracking, etc.
  • Level II (12 months minimum or cumulative 1-2 years' previous experience):
    • Must be able to tear down and reassemble gate valves, plug valves, dump valves, back pressure valves, and pilots.
    • Must be able to communicate with managers, Service Company, third party monitors and company personnel on location.
    • Must be able to troubleshoot and replace any/all malfunctioning parts on location as needed.
    • Must be able to maintain equipment repair logs as needed.
    • Knowledgeable on the SOP processes and work instructions for the multiple services provided in the Well Testing Product Line per specific district.
    • Must be able to communicate with operator representatives on reports/paperwork including but not limited to damage reports, invoices, equipment tracking, etc.
    • Training and mentoring Level I Rig Up Hands.
    • Learn the operation procedures, processes and materials used by the various service companies on location.
    • Learn to rig-up, operate, and troubleshoot multi-well ESD systems.
  • Level III (18 months minimum or cumulative 2-4 years' previous experience):
    • Learn functions and mechanic of the SandX tanks, Superloops, DeSanders, and hydraulics.
    • Learn to document any and all necessary repairs/maintenance on equipment and communicate with Yard Manager.
    • Proficient on the SOP processes and work instructions for the multiple services provided in the Well Testing Product Line per specific district.
    • Training and mentoring Level I & II Rig Up Hands.
    • Knowledgeable of the operation procedures, processes and materials used by the various service companies on location.
    • Must be able to rig-up, operate, and troubleshoot multi-well ESD systems, and assist with coordination of all equipment and crew during rig-up and rig-down.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

  • Must be able to travel an extensive amount of days; be on call 24/7 and be able to work across state lines
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating, and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals
  • Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills in English.
  • Must be proficient with a computer/laptop including Company applications (iScout, UKG Pro, etc.).
  • Ability to work and drive-in all-weather conditions.
  • Ability to operate hand tools.
  • Basic math skills.
  • Must have mechanical abilities.
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office software.
  • Familiar with a variety of the field's concepts, practices, and procedures.
  • Familiar with tools and equipment utilized by company, preferred.
  • A High School Diploma or General Education Degree GED preferred
  • One plus years' experience in oilfield work, or related field preferred
  • Must be able to travel for extensive amount of days and be on call 24/7.
  • Class A or B Commercial Drivers License (CDL) preferred, but not required
  • Must maintain a safe driving record as prescribed by company policy.
  • Must successfully pass pre- and post-employment drug and alcohol tests per company policy.
  • Must be able to perform each essential duty to assigned standards. The requirements listed are representative of knowledge, skill, and or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions
  • Ability to meet qualifications to drive per company standards and policies; if required

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Must be able to frequently lift and move materials up to 75 pounds or less unassisted. Anything 76 lbs. or more requires mechanical assistance or a team lift.
  • Requires pushing and pulling up to 140 pounds of force, bending, standing, kneeling, carrying, sitting, climbing for extended periods of time each day.
  • Must be able to swing 8-10 pound hammer repetitively.
  • Requires appropriate PPE to be worn; safety glasses, steel toe boots, ear plugs etc....
  • Requires exposure to moderate noise levels.
  • Exposure to warm, hot and cold temperatures.
  • May be required to be clean shaven.