ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Rig Hand Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Killam Oil Co LTD

Workover Rig Derrickman

Freer, TX · On-site

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 ...

Killam Oil Co LTD

Workover Rig Derrickman

Freer, TX · On-site

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 ...

Killam Companies

Workover Rig Derrickman

Freer, TX · On-site

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 ...

Ranger Energy Services LLC

Operator-Rig

Belfield, ND · On-site

Operator - Rig SUMMARY The primary duty of the Rig Operator is to work the controls and equipment ... Able to instruct the floor and derrick hand in use of all rig and pumping equipment * Operate the ...

Ranger Energy Services, LLC

Operator - Rig

Bowie, TX · On-site

Rig Operator The primary duty of the Rig Operator is to work the controls and equipment on a rig ... Able to instruct the floor and derrick hand in use of all rig and pumping equipment * Operate the ...

Ranger Energy Services LLC

Operator-Rig

Andrews, TX · On-site

Operator I - Rig SUMMARY The primary duty of the Rig Operator is to work the controls and equipment ... Able to instruct the floor and derrick hand in use of all rig and pumping equipment * Operate the ...

Ranger Energy Services LLC

Operator - Rig

Bowie, TX · On-site

Operator I - Rig SUMMARY The primary duty of the Rig Operator is to work the controls and equipment ... Able to instruct the floor and derrick hand in use of all rig and pumping equipment * Operate the ...

Ranger Energy Services

Operator - Rig

Bowie, TX · On-site

The Rig Operator supervises crewmembers while rig operations are in process, maintains productivity ... Able to instruct the floor and derrick hand in use of all rig and pumping equipment * Operate the ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsConstruction JobsHeavy Equipment JobsRigger JobsRig Hand Operator Jobs

Rig Hand Operator information

See salary details

$7

$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 Operator - Next LVL Energy

Rochester Mills, PA • On-site

Diversified Gas & Oil Corporation
See more jobs at Diversified Gas & Oil Corporationexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

COMPANY PROFILE
Diversified Gas & Oil Corporation ("DGOC") is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Diversified Energy Company PLC, a US-based company listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and London Stock Exchange (LSE) under the ticker symbol "DEC". Diversified Gas & Oil Corporation (DGOC) is an established owner and operator of producing conventional and unconventional natural gas & oil wells and midstream pipelines and compression stations concentrated in the Appalachian Basin in the United States. Headquartered in Birmingham, AL, our field operations are located throughout the Appalachian Basin in the states of Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, West Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. In 2021, Diversified announced our expansion into our Central Regional Focus Area, which includes producing areas within Louisiana, Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas.
POSITION SUMMARY & RESPONSIBILITIES:
Special focus will be placed on:
  • Supervise a minimum of two direct reports (rig hands).
  • Participate in the hiring process for new rig hands.
  • Train and mentor new/inexperienced rig hands as necessary.
  • Ensure the team is on site on time, fulfilling their job duties, and is following all operating procedures.
  • Review and submit time worked for rig hands daily.
  • Complete and submit annual performance evaluations via the company performance evaluation system.
  • Operate service rig, responsible for rigging up/down, tubing tallies, and general operation of all support equipment on site.
  • Rig up and operate triplex pumps and all related piping in a safe manner consistent with safe operating procedures, confirms cement and displacement calculations.
  • Conduct regular JSAs (Job Safety Analysis) with Next LVL and third-party employees; responsible for monitoring and ensuring safe working conditions of the worksite including ensuring all employees on the job site are properly utilizing FR and PPE.
  • Ensure accurate and timely reporting of all near misses, workplace injuries, accidents, or illness, regardless of the severity of the injury or accident.
  • Organize, schedule, and supervise support services (cement, wireline, trucking, and construction) actively working on location.
  • Conduct and track frequent inspections of the rig and rig location, identifying issues regarding safe and efficient operations of the rig, and makes timely recommendations to rectify any noted problems.
  • Perform minor mechanical repairs on equipment and keep maintenance records updated
  • Complete and submit a daily operations report detailing and approving operational activity that occurred on site.
  • Regularly communicate with the Plugging Manager to provide rig and job site updates, issues, and delays. Relay and ensure all expectations regarding safety, performance, job site, maintenance, efficiency, etc. are upheld by the rig crew.
  • Check emails daily and comply with email requests as they are assigned.
  • Perform any other duties as requested or assigned, including occasionally assisting with non-plugging or special projects per direction of management.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Valid driver's license
  • Class A/B CDL preferred
  • 3 - 5 years' experience in plugging operations and/or gas and oil industry preferred
  • 2+ years' experience as a rig hand preferred
  • Experience with downhole fishing, milling, drilling, etc.
  • Experience with general maintenance on service rig, pumping equipment, and all other equipment
  • Willingness to travel and work out of town on a frequent basis
  • Knowledge with H2S Gas
  • Basic math skills
  • Basic computer skills/proficiency

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions
  • Must be able to move or traverse from one location on the job site to another. This includes the ability to remain in a stationary position for extended periods, frequently positioning oneself (e.g., to stoop, kneel, or squat) to perform tasks, and occasionally ascend/descend (e.g., ladders or uneven terrain)
  • Ability to detect, determine, perceive, identify, recognize, judge, observe, inspect, estimate, and assess driving operations effectively (either naturally or with corrective lenses).
  • Ability to operate a 4X4 vehicle.
  • Must be able to repetitively move or position feet, shoulders, arms, wrists, and back. Constantly operates, uses, and positions hands and fingers in performance of work
  • Must be able to work atop elevated surfaces and traverse various heights
  • Lifts or carries 116 lbs. or more, which falls into the "heavy" category (over 50 pounds).
  • Frequently pushes and pulls with a maximum force of 150 ft./lbs.
  • Constantly works in outdoor weather conditions and is exposed to varying environmental conditions, including well site conditions. The position requires the ability to perform tasks in physically demanding environments, encompassing the essential physical requirements and efforts outline

The Employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.
Driver Requirements:
  • Must possess a valid driver's license and maintain a clean driving record
  • This position involves operating a company vehicle for work-related travel or receiving a stipend for operating a personal vehicle for company use; adherence to all traffic laws and company vehicle policies is required.
  • Candidates must be eligible to be insured under the company's vehicle insurance policy.

Apply