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Rig Hand Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Marcus Well Drilling, Inc.

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Pump Service Technician - Rig Hand

Willmar, MN · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Water Pump Service Technician - Rig Hand - Water Line Installer Compensation: $20.00 - $30.00 per hour (Based on Experience & Skill Set) + Overtime/Benefits Are you a skilled problem-solver who ...

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Marcus Well Drilling, Inc.

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Pump Service Technician - Rig Hand

Renville, MN · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Water Pump Service Technician - Rig Hand - Water Line Installer Compensation: $20.00 - $30.00 per hour (Based on Experience & Skill Set) + Overtime/Benefits Are you a skilled problem-solver who ...

Highlands Drilling LLC

Floorhand

Weston, WV · On-site

During non-drilling operations, the rig hand's work activities include repair and maintenance of the drilling equipment as directed by the driller, mechanic, or toolpusher. During relocation of the ...

Plants and Goodwin, Inc.

Derrickman

Lore City, OH · On-site

Compensation and Benefits: $22 - $28 / Hour $50 / Day Rig Bonus $55 / Day Per Diem Health, Life, Dental, Vision, and Supplementary Insurance Benefits 401(k) matching Company sponsored CDL Program for ...

Plants and Goodwin, Inc.

Derrickman

Lore City, OH

$22 - $28/hr

Compensation and Benefits: $22 - $28 / Hour $50 / Day Rig Bonus $55 / Day Per Diem Health, Life, Dental, Vision, and Supplementary Insurance Benefits 401(k) matching Company sponsored CDL Program for ...

Plants and Goodwin, Inc.

Derrickman

Lore City, OH · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Compensation and Benefits: $22 - $28 / Hour $50 / Day Rig Bonus $55 / Day Per Diem Health, Life, Dental, Vision, and Supplementary Insurance Benefits 401(k) matching Company sponsored CDL Program for ...

Coastal Well Service LLC

Righand

Morgantown, WV · On-site

$23.75 - $32.25/hr

During non-drilling operations, the rig hand's work activities include repair and maintenance of the drilling equipment as directed by the driller, mechanic, or toolpusher. During relocation of the ...

Coastal Well Service LLC

Righand

Snow Shoe, PA · On-site

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

During non-drilling operations, the rig hand's work activities include repair and maintenance of the drilling equipment as directed by the driller, mechanic, or toolpusher. During relocation of the ...

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All JobsRig Hand Jobs

Rig Hand information

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$7

$26

$46

How much do rig hand jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for rig hand 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Rig Hand, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Rig Hand, you need physical stamina, basic mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with rigging equipment, safety protocols, and certifications like H2S Alive or First Aid are commonly required. Teamwork, attention to detail, and a strong work ethic are valuable soft skills in this demanding environment. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safety, efficiency, and reliability on an oil or gas drilling site.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Rig hands working in the oil and gas industry can earn around $4,000 per week, especially with experience and in high-demand locations. These roles often require physical stamina, technical skills, and safety certifications but typically do not require a college degree. Compensation varies based on location, experience, and the complexity of the work environment.

What Is a Rig Hand?

A rig hand or roughneck is a worker on an oil rig. The term rig hand describes various jobs working on an oil rig. In this career, you are usually responsible for maintaining the drilling rig and equipment on the rig. However, your exact duties depend on the specific position. The lowest position in the rig hierarchy is the leasehand. In this role, you perform general maintenance service on the drilling rig. The next level is the floorhand, who assists in setting up and tearing down the drilling operation. In this position, you are in charge of handling pipe, drilling tools, and other necessary materials on the rig. The next three roles, the motorhand, derrickhand, and driller, are advancement tiers of the rig tech. Their responsibilities include maintaining the rig’s engines, monitoring the drill systems, and manning the drill.

What is the easiest job on an oil rig?

On an oil rig, roles such as roustabout or general laborer are often considered among the less technically demanding positions, involving manual tasks like cleaning, maintenance, and assisting with equipment. These jobs typically require less specialized training but still involve working in challenging environments and following safety protocols.

What is the difference between Rig Hand vs Drilling Operator?

AspectRig HandDrilling Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certificationsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentOffshore/onshore oil rigs, field sitesOffshore/onshore drilling sites, oil rigs
Employer & IndustryOil & gas companies, drilling contractorsOil & gas companies, drilling contractors
Job FocusAssisting with rig operations, equipment handlingOperating drilling equipment, managing drilling processes

While both Rig Hands and Drilling Operators work on oil rigs and in drilling environments, Rig Hands primarily assist with rig operations and equipment handling, whereas Drilling Operators operate and manage the drilling machinery. The roles often overlap, but Drilling Operators typically require more technical training and have a greater focus on operating complex equipment.

What are rig hands?

Rig hands, also known as roughnecks, are entry-level workers who perform manual labor on oil and gas drilling rigs. Their responsibilities include maintaining equipment, assisting with drilling operations, cleaning the rig, and handling tools and materials. Rig hands work long hours in physically demanding and sometimes hazardous conditions, often in remote locations. This position is critical to the smooth and safe operation of drilling activities.

What are some typical challenges a Rig Hand faces during their shift, and how can they best prepare for them?

Rig Hands often work long hours in physically demanding and sometimes harsh outdoor environments. Common challenges include handling heavy equipment, maintaining safety protocols in unpredictable weather, and quickly adapting to the fast pace of drilling operations. To prepare, it’s important to maintain good physical fitness, stay well-rested, and familiarize yourself thoroughly with safety procedures. Being proactive in communication and teamwork also helps address issues quickly and keeps operations running smoothly.

What is the highest paying hands-on job?

For rig hands, the highest paying roles are often those with specialized skills such as drillers or toolpushers, who oversee drilling operations and can earn six-figure salaries. Experience, certifications, and working in remote or challenging environments typically contribute to higher compensation in hands-on industrial jobs.

How much does a rig hand make?

A rig hand in Texas typically earns between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the rig. Overtime, certifications, and working conditions can also influence pay rates.
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Rig Hand jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rig Hand job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,272 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Experienced Workover Rig Derrickhand

ND Energy Services

Dickinson, ND • On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

A Workover Rig Derrickhand is responsible for all activities conducted from an elevated position in the rod basket or tubing board.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Works with a three to five person crew performing maintenance and repairs on oil and gas wells
  • Works in the derrick on tubing board and rod basket when tripping pipe
  • Verifies the derrick is properly scoped out, anchored, and devices are properly deployed
  • Assist the operator in rigging up and down, lining up the well service rig with the well
  • Responsible for all elevated work associated with rigging down
  • Pulls and lays down rods, tubing and casing from the tubing board or rod basket
  • Operates pump, tongs, elevators, and other rig tools and equipment
  • Maintains and inspects climbing devices and fall prevention equipment
  • Drives crew truck when necessary
  • Works the floor or operates the rig when necessary
  • Works in the shop or assists in NDES Yard maintenance when necessary
  • Assists in repairs and preparing workover rig for deployment when necessary
  • Assists in training new crew members, specifically Floorhand-SSE's when necessary
  • Attends and participates in daily and monthly safety meetings
  • Understand and comply with company, customer, and health/safety policies, and any other regulations that are required.
  • Reports any and all incidents immediately.
  • Able to work in all weather conditions
  • Performs other duties as directed by management.

Required Skills

  • Must be able to work in fast-paced environment
  • Must be able to report to work on time and fit for duty
  • Must possess organizational and problem-solving skills
  • Must be able to work with a team
  • Must be able to lift 75 lbs. and handle physical demanding work
  • Must be able to communicate using oral and basic written communication
  • Must pass a Pre-Employment Drug & Alcohol screening and participate in the random testing pool
  • Must pass a background check and motor vehicle record check
  • Arrange for reliable transportation to and from work

Qualifications

The requirements listed in this job description are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required and must be met by an individual to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Work Environment

The job operates in an outside environment. The role routinely works in all weather conditions, including but not limited to: extreme wind, rain, cold, heat, etc.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time position that typically works a 14 day on/7 days off rotation. This position regularly requires long hours and weekend work (including holidays) as job duties demand.

License & Certifications

  • Valid Driver's License
  • Class A or B CDL, preferred

Education & Experience

  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Previous workover experience preferred

Benefits

  • Competitive Wages
  • Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Long Term Disability and Short-Term Disability
  • Retirement Plan with company match

Pay

$30-35 per hour

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.



Job Posted by ApplicantPro