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Rig Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Rig Manager is responsible for every aspect of the rig operations, including set up, take down and moving, along with the safety of all crew members. The Rig Manager is responsible for daily ...

The Rig Manager is responsible for coordinating the operational functions of all the Rigs in the Unit, with special emphasis on the drilling operations, towards effective and efficient performance of ...

Under the direction of a Rig Manager, the Rig Operator organizes the rig crew (Floor Hands and Derrick Hands), conducts Job Safety Meetings, delegates the collection of materials and equipment needed ...

Under the direction of a Rig Manager, the Rig Operator organizes the rig crew (Floor Hands and Derrick Hands), conducts Job Safety Meetings, delegates the collection of materials and equipment needed ...

New

Under the direction of a Rig Manager, the Rig Operator organizes the rig crew (Floor Hands and Derrick Hands), conducts Job Safety Meetings, delegates the collection of materials and equipment needed ...

Under the direction of a Rig Manager, the Rig Operator organizes the rig crew (Floor Hands and Derrick Hands), conducts Job Safety Meetings, delegates the collection of materials and equipment needed ...

Under the direction of a Rig Manager, the Rig Operator organizes the rig crew (Floor Hands and Derrick Hands), conducts Job Safety Meetings, delegates the collection of materials and equipment needed ...

New

Under the direction of a Rig Manager, the Rig Operator organizes the rig crew (Floor Hands and Derrick Hands), conducts Job Safety Meetings, delegates the collection of materials and equipment needed ...

The Rig Manager is responsible for coordinating the operational functions of all the Rigs in the Unit, with special emphasis on the drilling operations, towards effective and efficient performance of ...

Driller

Odessa, TX · On-site

$40/hr

Rig Manager REVIEWING SUPERVISOR: Region/Division Manager POSITION PURPOSE: Supervise the rig crews, monitor drilling operations, operate drilling equipment and report drilling operations to the Rig ...

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Rig Manager information

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$31K

$69K

$101.5K

How much do rig manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for rig manager in the United States is $69,041.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,000.00 and $80,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do oil rig managers make?

Oil rig managers typically earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, with experienced managers and those working in high-demand regions earning higher salaries. Compensation often includes benefits such as housing, travel allowances, and overtime pay, reflecting the demanding offshore environment and required certifications like BOSIET or HUET.

What are the main challenges a Rig Manager typically faces when overseeing drilling operations?

As a Rig Manager, one of the primary challenges is balancing safety with productivity, ensuring that drilling operations meet deadlines without compromising health and safety standards. Rig Managers must also coordinate effectively with diverse teams, manage equipment maintenance, and handle unexpected issues such as equipment failures or weather disruptions. Strong leadership and problem-solving skills are essential, as Rig Managers are responsible for making critical decisions in high-pressure situations while maintaining regulatory compliance. Additionally, adapting to new technologies and industry regulations is an ongoing part of the role.

What does a rig manager do?

A rig manager oversees the operation and safety of drilling rigs in the oil and gas industry. They coordinate personnel, ensure compliance with safety regulations, and manage equipment to ensure efficient drilling processes. Strong leadership, technical knowledge, and certifications are essential for this role.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

High-level executive roles such as CEOs, CFOs, and other C-suite positions often earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in large corporations. Certain specialized professions like surgeons, anesthesiologists, and successful entrepreneurs can also reach this income level, often requiring advanced skills, extensive experience, and significant responsibility.

What is the salary of a rig manager?

The salary of a rig manager typically ranges from $80,000 to $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the operation. Experienced rig managers with certifications and technical skills can earn higher wages, especially in offshore or high-demand environments.

What are Rig Managers?

Rig Managers are responsible for overseeing the daily operations and management of oil or gas drilling rigs. They supervise the crew, ensure safety protocols are followed, coordinate drilling activities, and manage equipment and supplies on site. Rig Managers play a key role in maintaining operational efficiency, compliance with regulations, and timely completion of drilling projects. Their leadership is crucial for minimizing downtime and ensuring that production targets are met safely and effectively.

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

To thrive as a Rig Manager, you need in-depth knowledge of drilling operations, safety protocols, and team leadership, typically gained through industry experience and relevant technical qualifications. Familiarity with drilling control systems, safety management software, and certifications such as Well Control or IWCF are highly valued. Strong decision-making, communication, and problem-solving skills help manage crews and ensure operational efficiency. These competencies are vital to maintain safety, minimize downtime, and achieve project objectives in the demanding oil and gas environment.
More about Rig Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Rig Manager jobs? Cities with the most Rig Manager job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Rig jobs? The most popular types of Rig jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Rig Manager jobs? The top employers for Rig Manager jobs are:
What states have the most Rig Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Rig Manager jobs include:
Rig Manager - North Dakota and Wyoming

Rig Manager - North Dakota and Wyoming

Patterson-UTI

Dickinson, ND • On-site

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Patterson-UTI rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 74 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

The Rig Manager is responsible for every aspect of daily rig operations and supervises all employees working on the rig as well as drilling activities and rig equipment.  This includes compliance with Company policies, rules and regulations, ensuring that employees and onsite personnel are working safely, planning maintenance and minimizing rig down time.  The Rig Manager provides leadership, safety compliance and direction in resolving operational and personnel issues.  The Rig Manager is also responsible for planning and directing drilling operations, rig moves, as well as regular communication with Company personnel, third parties and Customer representatives.

The successful candidate will: set high standards of performance for themselves and others; be professional in written, verbal and personal actions in any situation; seek new knowledge and experiences; have an analytical mindset that can utilize factual data to develop creative and business-oriented solutions; be self- aware and adjust accordingly to different environments and audiences             

This role performs under the direction of the Drilling Superintendent.

Detailed Description:

  • Provide leadership to ensure safety of all onsite personnel with goal of working incident-free
  • Supervision, direction and training of drilling rig crew members including compliance with all safety and operational procedures
  • Management of rig operations, production, maintenance, costs and personnel to the meet the Company's business objectives
  • Understand Comprehensive Rig Inspection (CRI) criteria and strive for continual improvement by regularly inspecting and maintaining rig and equipment
  • Initiate and foster productive partnership with Customer representative
  • Understand and use basic management concepts and principles including delegation, motivation, discipline, goal setting and performance evaluation
  • Efficiently and proficiently operate and maintain rig equipment by planning preventative maintenance including necessary replacement supplies
  • Anticipate, quickly troubleshoot and resolve operational, equipment and maintenance issues to minimize rig downtime
  • Work in a heavy industrial environment which includes working around constantly moving overhead machinery, being in close proximity to loud equipment and handling potentially hazardous chemicals
  • Adhere to Company policies, guidelines and work requirements
  • Promote a diverse and inclusive work environment where employees of all backgrounds feel included and their contributions are valued
  • Promptly address and resolve concerns and disputes among team members and customers with the goal of building a stronger, more cohesive work group
  • Plan daily rig operations with Driller and Customer representative
  • Lead pre- and post-tour meetings including crew fit-for-duty evaluations
  • Fill in for Driller or other rig-based employees as needed
  • Work independently and prioritize tasks while managing distractions
  • Responsibility for Company resources, equipment, and personnel
  • Read / write emails and prepare daily rig paperwork including status reports and other business matters related to rig operations
  • General upkeep of the rig and drilling floor; includes regular sweeping, shoveling, cleaning, painting, washing of equipment and related housekeeping duties
  • Plan and supervise rig moves including rig up / down procedures
  • Other duties as assigned that may be outside of this job description

Job Requirements:

  • While performing the job, will be required to lift/carry, pull/push, reach, squat, kneel, and or climb ladders or stairs
  • Exerting 25 to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or 10 to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects
  • Able to repetitively climb steep stairs and be able to lift and carry 50 pounds independently while walking on uneven surfaces
  • Must be comfortable working at heights (50 ft. or greater) for extended periods of time
  • Maintain spatial orientation and awareness to safely move around work environment with many moving objects
  • Clear vision to judge near and far distances to maintain awareness of, watch, and direct ongoing work activities of employees and third parties
  • Ability to read, write and speak English to the extent needed to understand verbal and written instructions and to give clear verbal and written instructions in English to direct rig employees and third parties as well as communicate with Customer representatives
  • This job requires an irregular sleep pattern, as the Rig Manager needs to be available to observe and direct specified drilling procedures as well as resolve unanticipated rig operational, equipment or maintenance issues
  • Wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all designated times which could include but is not limited to: hard hat, safety glasses, coveralls, work gloves, respirator, and hearing protection
  • Demonstrated ability to successfully complete duties of all rig crew positions (Floorhand, Motorhand, Derrickhand and Driller)
  • Must possess strong computer skills (.e.g., reports, email, spreadsheets, graphs, etc.)
  • Must be able to utilize standard formulas and basic mathematical equations to compute and report various rig operation metrics
  • Must be able to verbally communicate directions and expectations effectively to the rig crew and third parties
  • Willing to travel to and work in remote locations on a rotational schedule which consists of 14 days on / 14 days off, working 12.5 hour shifts that can include days or nights and as well as weekends and holidays
  • Willing to work mandatory and unscheduled hours outside of your assigned schedule with little or no advanced notice
  • Must be willing and able to attend and successfully complete classroom training and testing to qualify for a rig assignment
  • Able to successfully meet pre-employment testing requirements which may include, without limitation, pre-employment drug and alcohol test(s) and background checks as well as drug and/or alcohol testing periodically during employment (subject to state and federal laws)

Demonstrated ability in the following leadership competencies:

  • Builds and Maintains Effective Relationship
  • Develops Self and Others
  • Builds Effective Teams
  • Courageous Leadership
  • Managing Vision and Purpose
  • Business Acumen
  • Drive for Results
  • Customer focus
  • Decision Quality

Minimum Qualifications

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Valid state-issued driver's license and be eligible to meet requirements of Company's Vehicle Use Agreement and Driving Policy

Certifications:

  • Well Control
  • CPR/First Aid
  • Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) Safety Training
  • Must be able to complete Supervisory Well Control course within 14 days of start date

Preferred Qualifications

  • Advanced education (e.g., college, trade school, etc.)
  • Experience as a Rig Manager on an AC/VFD style rig

Additional Details

This position requires work both indoors and outdoors in all kinds of weather conditions, including precipitation, cold / heat, high wind, and turbulent conditions.  The Rig Manager will be regularly exposed to the typical conditions of the local area where the rig is located.  Southern states generally experience hot summers where temperatures range from 80 to low 100 with high humidity; winters have temperatures that generally do not go below 20.  Northern states generally have hot summers with similar conditions and have cold, windy winters, with low temperatures that can be as cold as -40.

The New Standard for Drilling Performance
Drill safer, smarter and faster with Patterson-UTI Drilling's comprehensive fleet of pad-capable rigs featuring advanced walking systems to enhance your operations so you can reach your apex.

Patterson-UTI is committed to a workplace free from discrimination and harassment, offering equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of personal characteristics protected by law. Employees are encouraged to report any concerns through multiple channels.



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