Rig Operator
Bakersfield, CA · On-site
Two years or more of recent, workover rig operating or oil well servicing experience. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Critical: * Ability to wear personal protective equipment and/or safety ...
Rig Operator
Bakersfield, CA · On-site
Two years or more of recent, workover rig operating or oil well servicing experience. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Critical: * Ability to wear personal protective equipment and/or safety ...
Two years or more of recent, workover rig operating or oil well servicing experience. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Critical: * Ability to wear personal protective equipment and/or safety ...
Two years or more of recent, workover rig operating or oil well servicing experience. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Critical: * Ability to wear personal protective equipment and/or safety ...
Bore Rig Operator
Acampo, CA · On-site
$30 - $35/hr
A bore rig operator's duties include safely operating and maintaining drilling equipment to create deep, narrow holes for various purposes, including utility installation, water wells, and resource ...
Quick apply
Bore Rig Operator
Acampo, CA · On-site
$30 - $35/hr
A bore rig operator's duties include safely operating and maintaining drilling equipment to create deep, narrow holes for various purposes, including utility installation, water wells, and resource ...
Water System Operator
Fresno, CA · On-site
$28.14 - $35.91/hr
... Spray Rig Operator, Possession of special license, new construction, heavy equipment operation, crew leader of any of the above other specialized work and completion of any District required ...
Water System Operator
Fresno, CA · On-site
$28.14 - $35.91/hr
... Spray Rig Operator, Possession of special license, new construction, heavy equipment operation, crew leader of any of the above other specialized work and completion of any District required ...
Water System Operator
Fresno, CA · On-site
... Spray Rig Operator, Possession of special license, new construction, heavy equipment operation, crew leader of any of the above other specialized work and completion of any District required ...
Quick apply
Water System Operator
Fresno, CA · On-site
... Spray Rig Operator, Possession of special license, new construction, heavy equipment operation, crew leader of any of the above other specialized work and completion of any District required ...
Water System Operator
Fresno, CA · On-site
... Spray Rig Operator, Possession of special license, new construction, heavy equipment operation, crew leader of any of the above other specialized work and completion of any District required ...
Quick apply
Water System Operator
Fresno, CA · On-site
... Spray Rig Operator, Possession of special license, new construction, heavy equipment operation, crew leader of any of the above other specialized work and completion of any District required ...
Water System Operator
Fresno, CA · On-site
... Spray Rig Operator, Possession of special license, new construction, heavy equipment operation, crew leader of any of the above other specialized work and completion of any District required ...
Water System Operator
Fresno, CA · On-site
... Spray Rig Operator, Possession of special license, new construction, heavy equipment operation, crew leader of any of the above other specialized work and completion of any District required ...
Rig Team Lead
$25 - $31/hr
... vehicle prior to operating the vehicle on the road or in the yard. Perform basic equipment ... rig truck, tools, supplies and equipment to support a clean, organized, and safe worksite. • ...
Rig Team Lead
$25 - $31/hr
... vehicle prior to operating the vehicle on the road or in the yard. Perform basic equipment ... rig truck, tools, supplies and equipment to support a clean, organized, and safe worksite. • ...
Rig Team Lead
$25 - $31/hr
... vehicle prior to operating the vehicle on the road or in the yard. Perform basic equipment ... rig truck, tools, supplies and equipment to support a clean, organized, and safe worksite. • ...
Rig Team Lead
$25 - $31/hr
... vehicle prior to operating the vehicle on the road or in the yard. Perform basic equipment ... rig truck, tools, supplies and equipment to support a clean, organized, and safe worksite. • ...
Rig Team Lead
Elk Grove, CA · On-site
$25 - $31/hr
... vehicle prior to operating the vehicle on the road or in the yard. Perform basic equipment ... rig truck, tools, supplies and equipment to support a clean, organized, and safe worksite. • ...
Rig Team Lead
Elk Grove, CA · On-site
$25 - $31/hr
... vehicle prior to operating the vehicle on the road or in the yard. Perform basic equipment ... rig truck, tools, supplies and equipment to support a clean, organized, and safe worksite. • ...
Rig Team Lead
$25 - $31/hr
... vehicle prior to operating the vehicle on the road or in the yard. Perform basic equipment ... rig truck, tools, supplies and equipment to support a clean, organized, and safe worksite. • ...
Rig Team Lead
$25 - $31/hr
... vehicle prior to operating the vehicle on the road or in the yard. Perform basic equipment ... rig truck, tools, supplies and equipment to support a clean, organized, and safe worksite. • ...
Rig Team Lead
Sacramento, CA · On-site
$25 - $31/hr
... vehicle prior to operating the vehicle on the road or in the yard. Perform basic equipment ... rig truck, tools, supplies and equipment to support a clean, organized, and safe worksite. • ...
Rig Team Lead
Sacramento, CA · On-site
$25 - $31/hr
... vehicle prior to operating the vehicle on the road or in the yard. Perform basic equipment ... rig truck, tools, supplies and equipment to support a clean, organized, and safe worksite. • ...
Rig Team Lead
$25 - $31/hr
... vehicle prior to operating the vehicle on the road or in the yard. Perform basic equipment ... rig truck, tools, supplies and equipment to support a clean, organized, and safe worksite. • ...
Rig Team Lead
$25 - $31/hr
... vehicle prior to operating the vehicle on the road or in the yard. Perform basic equipment ... rig truck, tools, supplies and equipment to support a clean, organized, and safe worksite. • ...
Rig Team Lead
Woodland, CA · On-site
$25 - $31/hr
... vehicle prior to operating the vehicle on the road or in the yard. Perform basic equipment ... rig truck, tools, supplies and equipment to support a clean, organized, and safe worksite. • ...
Rig Team Lead
Woodland, CA · On-site
$25 - $31/hr
... vehicle prior to operating the vehicle on the road or in the yard. Perform basic equipment ... rig truck, tools, supplies and equipment to support a clean, organized, and safe worksite. • ...
Rig Team Lead
$25 - $31/hr
... vehicle prior to operating the vehicle on the road or in the yard. Perform basic equipment ... rig truck, tools, supplies and equipment to support a clean, organized, and safe worksite. • ...
Rig Team Lead
$25 - $31/hr
... vehicle prior to operating the vehicle on the road or in the yard. Perform basic equipment ... rig truck, tools, supplies and equipment to support a clean, organized, and safe worksite. • ...
Rig Team Lead
$25 - $31/hr
... vehicle prior to operating the vehicle on the road or in the yard. Perform basic equipment ... rig truck, tools, supplies and equipment to support a clean, organized, and safe worksite. • ...
Rig Team Lead
$25 - $31/hr
... vehicle prior to operating the vehicle on the road or in the yard. Perform basic equipment ... rig truck, tools, supplies and equipment to support a clean, organized, and safe worksite. • ...
Rig Team Lead
Guadalupe, CA · On-site
$25 - $31/hr
... vehicle prior to operating the vehicle on the road or in the yard. Perform basic equipment ... rig truck, tools, supplies and equipment to support a clean, organized, and safe worksite. • ...
Rig Team Lead
Guadalupe, CA · On-site
$25 - $31/hr
... vehicle prior to operating the vehicle on the road or in the yard. Perform basic equipment ... rig truck, tools, supplies and equipment to support a clean, organized, and safe worksite. • ...
Rig Team Lead
$25 - $31/hr
... vehicle prior to operating the vehicle on the road or in the yard. Perform basic equipment ... rig truck, tools, supplies and equipment to support a clean, organized, and safe worksite. • ...
Rig Team Lead
$25 - $31/hr
... vehicle prior to operating the vehicle on the road or in the yard. Perform basic equipment ... rig truck, tools, supplies and equipment to support a clean, organized, and safe worksite. • ...
Rig Team Lead
$25 - $31/hr
... vehicle prior to operating the vehicle on the road or in the yard. Perform basic equipment ... rig truck, tools, supplies and equipment to support a clean, organized, and safe worksite. • ...
Rig Team Lead
$25 - $31/hr
... vehicle prior to operating the vehicle on the road or in the yard. Perform basic equipment ... rig truck, tools, supplies and equipment to support a clean, organized, and safe worksite. • ...
Rig Team Lead
$25 - $31/hr
... vehicle prior to operating the vehicle on the road or in the yard. Perform basic equipment ... rig truck, tools, supplies and equipment to support a clean, organized, and safe worksite. • ...
Rig Team Lead
$25 - $31/hr
... vehicle prior to operating the vehicle on the road or in the yard. Perform basic equipment ... rig truck, tools, supplies and equipment to support a clean, organized, and safe worksite. • ...
Rig Operator information
See California salary details
$8.45 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$7.12 - $8.80
32% of jobs
$8.80 - $10.48
4% of jobs
$10.48 - $12.16
0% of jobs
$12.16 - $13.85
0% of jobs
The median wage is $15.18 / hr.
$13.85 - $15.53
18% of jobs
$15.53 - $17.21
0% of jobs
$17.21 - $18.89
20% of jobs
$19.03 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$18.89 - $20.57
16% of jobs
$20.58 - $22.26
6% of jobs
$22.26 - $23.94
2% of jobs
$23.94 - $25.62
2% of jobs
$7
$15
$25
How much do rig operator jobs pay per hour?
As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for rig operator in California is $15.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $8.32 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is the difference between Rig Operator vs Drilling Engineer?
| Aspect | Rig Operator | Drilling Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | High school diploma or equivalent, safety certifications | Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field, specialized certifications |
| Work Environment | On-site at drilling rigs, physically demanding | Office-based with site visits, technical planning |
| Industry Usage | Commonly employed on drilling sites in oil and gas | Involved in planning and designing drilling operations |
While both Rig Operators and Drilling Engineers work in the oil and gas industry, Rig Operators focus on operating and maintaining drilling equipment on-site, requiring hands-on skills and safety certifications. Drilling Engineers handle planning, design, and technical oversight, often working in offices but visiting rigs. Understanding these roles helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the drilling industry.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Rig Operator, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Rig Operator, you need a solid understanding of drilling operations, mechanical aptitude, and safety procedures, often supported by a high school diploma and industry-specific training. Familiarity with drilling rigs, heavy machinery, and safety management systems—as well as certifications like Well Control (IWCF or IADC)—is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication make a Rig Operator stand out in challenging environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining operational efficiency, ensuring safety, and minimizing downtime on drilling sites.
What are common challenges faced by Rig Operators, and how can they be effectively managed?
Rig Operators often encounter challenges such as working in remote locations, adhering to strict safety protocols, and managing unexpected equipment issues. To effectively manage these challenges, it is important to maintain strong communication with the crew, stay up-to-date on safety training, and develop troubleshooting skills for mechanical problems. Building a solid understanding of operational procedures and fostering teamwork can help create a safer and more efficient work environment.
What are rig operators?
Rig operators are skilled professionals responsible for overseeing and managing the operation of drilling rigs, typically used in the oil and gas industry. They ensure that drilling activities are carried out safely, efficiently, and according to regulations. Rig operators coordinate with other crew members, monitor equipment, and troubleshoot issues that arise during drilling. Their role is critical in maintaining productivity and safety on drilling sites.
What are popular job titles related to Rig Operator jobs in California? For Rig Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Rig Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Rig Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Rig Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Rig Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Rig Operator jobs in CA? For Rig Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Full-time
Medical, Retirement, PTO
Posted 18 days ago
Job description
Key Accountabilities
Education, Certificates, Licenses
Experience
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Critical:
Required:
Desired:
Work Environment
This role works primarily in a non-office environment. In this capacity, incumbents are regularly:
This job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties nor account for all abilities required to perform the job. It is a general description of the nature of the position.
The pay range for this position in California is between $29.32 per hour and $30.43 per hour. Please note that the hourly rate information is a general guideline, and that the hourly rate will vary depending on your location. C&J Well Services, LLC ("CJWS") will consider factors such as (but not limited to) scope of responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer. excellent benefits including full health benefits, 401(k) with company match and immediate vesting, and generous paid time off.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
C&J Well Services, LLC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
LINK to Equal Employment Opportunity Posters:
https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/ofccpost.htm
Reasonable Accommodation Notice
If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact Human Resources at 661-589-5220 or CJWSHR@cjws.com.
Pay Transparency Notice
C&J Well Services, LLC ("CJWS") will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against an applicant or employee because they have inquired about or discussed compensation.
Notice to Third Party Agencies
Please note that C&J Well Services, LLC ("CJWS") does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the absence of a signed Recruitment Agreement, CJWS will not consider or agree to payment of any referral compensation or recruiter fee. In the event a recruiter or agency submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed agreement, CJWS explicitly reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers, will not be reviewed or considered in part of the application process.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
- Directs other crew members in rigging up guy-lines, various equipment, and tools; lifts, removes, installs, and operates wellhead, pumping units, matting boards, tubing, rods, casing, rod strippers, polish rods, stripper heads, and other production equipment in a manner consistent with safe operating procedures to perform the contracted services.
- Positions the rig, raises and lowers the mast.
- Directs the crew members in performing routine maintenance and repair activities of the rig and rig tools.
- Conducts Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment, and Risk Mitigation.
- Conducts safety meetings and performs pre-job briefs with his crew members and other service providers on site.
- Completes the Field Service Reports, documenting services performed, equipment used, billable consumables, and compensable crew time.
- Interacts positively with customer representatives on location to ensure proper job execution and customer satisfaction.
- Conducts route planning.
- Conducts safety observations.
- Develops and reviews Job Safety Plans (JSP).
- Completes equipment inspections and audits.
- May be required to drive a company, light, or DOT-regulated commercial vehicle.
- Performs all duties in compliance with Customer and Company policies and procedures and applicable regulations.
- Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and safe work procedures.
- Complies with all the Company's Safety and Environmental policies, practices, and programs. Takes corrective action within training limitations. Escalates as necessary.
- Performs other job-related duties as assigned.
Education, Certificates, Licenses
- Motor Vehicle Record qualifies the individual to be an approved company driver required.
- Commercial driver's license preferred.
- Well Control training required within 30 days.
Experience
- Two years or more of recent, workover rig operating or oil well servicing experience.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Critical:
- Ability to wear personal protective equipment and/or safety equipment including safety glasses, face shields, goggles, earmuffs/plugs, steel toe boots, hard hat, full body harness with applicable fall protection devices, SCBA (Self Contained Breathing Apparatus), H2S detectors, slicker or TYVEK suits and gloves.
- Knowledge of company and client policies, DOT and HSE standards and guidelines.
- Ability to comply with the client's and the company's safe operating procedures. All activities are to be performed consistent with the company's Safe Operating Procedures, to provide the maximum protection for all workers at the work site, the environment, and the equipment; and to complete the tasks efficiently.
Required:
- Basic knowledge of downhole conditions and desired outcome from an intervention.
- Ability to perform the primary thinking called for and encompassed by the overall job description.
- Ability to make quick decision-making and problem-solving skills to address unexpected challenges.
- Skilled in driving rig and other heavy equipment.
- Ability to perform and plan rig operations and services.
- Ability to read and follow job plans.
- Ability to direct crew members in their daily activities.
- Ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with team members, supervisors, and other personnel on the job site to ensure the efficient and safe completion of tasks.
- Ability to participate in and contribute to the collaborative resolution of challenges and issues within a team setting.
- Ability to work at heights up to or greater than 50 feet.
- Demonstrated dependability i.e. reporting for work at the prescribed location and on time.
- Ability to work beyond the traditional 8-hour work day; available to work Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays, to meet operational needs.
Desired:
- Awareness of and familiarity with oilfield operations, including understanding the layout of well sites, pipelines, and other infrastructure.
- Certification in First Aid, CPR, H2S, confined space entry, and defensive driver.
- Commercial driver's license.
Work Environment
This role works primarily in a non-office environment. In this capacity, incumbents are regularly:
- Exposed to outdoor elements such as extreme heat or cold, heavy winds, rain, or snow.
- Exposed to loud noise level elements.
- Required to drive to and access job sites, in light of day as well as in darkness, to perform work assignments. Some job site locations may be remote from the office requiring long drives to locations isolated from interaction with others and towns.
- Required to balance, bend, squat, crouch, climb, reach, grasp, stoop, kneel, push/pull and lift objects, and use apparatus to push/pull and lift heavy objects weighing 50 lbs or more.
- Subject to exposure to hazards such as but not limited to slippery or uneven surfaces; environmental/industry hazards such as chemicals, high-decibel noise from production equipment, fumes, or poor ventilation; proximity to moving objects and vehicles; potentially combustible components; hazardous off- road conditions such as dust, ice, and snow.
- May be requested to work long hours to complete job assignments.
- May work a rotating schedule, shift, and/or be on call.
- Follow all company safety policies and protocols.
- Required to perform active, physical tasks including but not limited to operating equipment and/or machinery and making adjustments and repairs.
- Required to have visual acuity to work with parts, equipment, apparatus, etc.
- Required to possess audible acuity to hear alarms in the event of emergency. field locations.
This job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties nor account for all abilities required to perform the job. It is a general description of the nature of the position.
The pay range for this position in California is between $29.32 per hour and $30.43 per hour. Please note that the hourly rate information is a general guideline, and that the hourly rate will vary depending on your location. C&J Well Services, LLC ("CJWS") will consider factors such as (but not limited to) scope of responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer. excellent benefits including full health benefits, 401(k) with company match and immediate vesting, and generous paid time off.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
C&J Well Services, LLC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
LINK to Equal Employment Opportunity Posters:
https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/ofccpost.htm
Reasonable Accommodation Notice
If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact Human Resources at 661-589-5220 or CJWSHR@cjws.com.
Pay Transparency Notice
C&J Well Services, LLC ("CJWS") will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against an applicant or employee because they have inquired about or discussed compensation.
Notice to Third Party Agencies
Please note that C&J Well Services, LLC ("CJWS") does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the absence of a signed Recruitment Agreement, CJWS will not consider or agree to payment of any referral compensation or recruiter fee. In the event a recruiter or agency submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed agreement, CJWS explicitly reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers, will not be reviewed or considered in part of the application process.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.