ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Rig Hand Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Steel Partners

NM Derrick Hand w/CDL

Farmington, NM · On-site

Under the supervision and direction of the Crew Operator, safely works in the rig derrick to ... A Derrick hand's duties also include cleaning, fueling, repairing, and maintaining workover rig ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsRig Hand Jobs

Rig Hand information

See salary details

$7

$26

$46

How much do rig hand jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 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 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 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 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 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 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.

More about Rig Hand jobs
What cities are hiring for Rig Hand jobs? Cities with the most Rig Hand job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Rig Hand jobs? The top employers for Rig Hand jobs are:
What states have the most Rig Hand jobs? States with the most job openings for Rig Hand jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Rig Hand jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Rig Hand jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Rig Hand jobs? For Rig Hand jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Rig Hand jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rig Hand job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Full Time, 83% Part Time, 9% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,272 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Workover / Cable Tool Rig Operator

Plants and Goodwin, Inc.

Lore City, OH

Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Plants & Goodwin, Inc. is the industry expert in plugging and abandonment operations in the Appalachian Basin.

Job Description
  • $25.00 - $31.00 / hour
  • $100.00 / day rig bonus
  • $55.00 / day per diem
  • Health, Life, AD & D, Dental & Vision available 1st of month following 30 days
  • 401(k) Matching
  • Company sponsored CDL Program for eligible employees
  • $150.00 Work boot allowance

The job of the Workover / Cable Tool Rig Operator is to safely and efficiently operate all rig components while overseeing a crew of 1-2 Floor hands.  The Workover / Cable Tool Rig Operator reports directly to the Rig Supervisor.  Responsibilities include:

  • Perform services on oil and gas wells as part of a 3-5 person workover rig crew
  • Assist in loading and off-loading pipe and other items from the truck to rig
  • Picking up and laying down tubing
  • Positions, lifts, attaches, installs and works with matting boards, tubing, rods, casing and associated well equipment, such as rod strippers, polish rods, etc
  • Operates rod wrenches, tongs, elevators and other associated rig tools and equipment
  • Reports safety hazards, accidents or maintenance issues to the Rig Supervisor
  • Complete required work plans, job safety analysis (JSA), observations, and attends safety meetings as required
Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred
  • 3-5 years of experience working on a well servicing rig
  • Must be able to successfully perform the duties of a Floorhand
  • Must be familiar with pump and tank operations
  • Must have a valid state issued drivers license, CDL, or the ability to obtain one
  • Ability to perform manual labor required to operate well servicing equipment
  • Ability to show knowledge of running tongs and all other support equipment
  • Competent communication, people, and leadership skills
  • Must be able to multi-task in a fast-paced environment
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.