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Rig Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Rig Electrician

Grand Junction, CO · On-site

$25 - $34.50/hr

The worker must have proper legal authorization to work in the country where the rig is operating * Steel-toe work boots * Passport (International positions only) Application Deadline: Applications ...

Wireline Operator

Windsor, CO · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Perform rig-up and rig-down of wireline units, pressure control equipment, and related surface ... Proven experience operating wireline units in oilfield or related wireline operations. Strong ...

Field Maintenance Tech PDC

Fruita, CO · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Ability to safely navigate drilling rig work sites with occasional walking, climbing, standing, stepping, etc. during normal rig operating conditions (day/night, outdoor hot/cold weather) * Ability ...

Field Maintenance Tech PDC

Fruita, CO · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Ability to safely navigate drilling rig work sites with occasional walking, climbing, standing, stepping, etc. during normal rig operating conditions (day/night, outdoor hot/cold weather) * Ability ...

Field Operator-CDL

Rifle, CO · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Field Operator-CDL RCO - Rifle, CO 81650 Overview Salary Range $19.00 - $23.00 Hourly Position ... Perform rig-in/rig-out procedures and monitor equipment during operations. * Mix chemicals and ...

Operator - Wireline I

Milliken, CO · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

SUMMARY Under direct supervision, the Wireline Operator 1 will be responsible for safely performing ... Learn basic oil well operations including identifying different rig types and drill string ...

Operator - Wireline I

Milliken, CO · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

SUMMARY Under direct supervision, the Wireline Operator 1 will be responsible for safely performing ... Learn basic oil well operations including identifying different rig types and drill string ...

Field Operator-CDL

Rifle, CO · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Field Operator I-V Company: American Cementing LLC Website: About Us Our cementing services range ... Perform rig-in/rig-out procedures and monitor equipment during operations. * Mix chemicals and ...

Operator

Brighton, CO · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Zero Carbon Systems seeks an Operator to operate and monitor Direct Air Capture (DAC) R&D equipment ... This role supports new rig construction, ensures safe and efficient plant operations, and performs ...

Field Operator-CDL

Rifle, CO · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Field Operator I-V Company: American Cementing LLC Website: About Us Our cementing services range ... Perform rig-in/rig-out procedures and monitor equipment during operations. * Mix chemicals and ...

DRILL OPERATOR

Henderson, CO · On-site

$36 - $38/hr

HORIZONTAL DIRECTIONAL DRILL OPERATOR We are looking to hire a Horizontal Directional Drill ... Safely operate the HDD rig and associated drilling equipment according to project specifications ...

Must be able to rig up and rig down for Crane work Ensures all fittings & equipment are available ... CDL Certified Crane Operator Current valid medical certification Hazmat helpful 2 years of ...

FORKLIFT OPERATOR

Aurora, CO · On-site

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

Forklift Operator Forklift Operators should be skilled with excellent attention to detail. As a ... Safely rig materials for lifting * Adhere to all safety policies and perform all tasks in a safe ...

Showing results 21-40

Rig Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$7

$16

$27

How much do rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for rig operator in Colorado is $16.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $8.85 and $20.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Rig Operator vs Drilling Engineer?

AspectRig OperatorDrilling Engineer
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, safety certificationsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field, specialized certifications
Work EnvironmentOn-site at drilling rigs, physically demandingOffice-based with site visits, technical planning
Industry UsageCommonly employed on drilling sites in oil and gasInvolved 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.

How much money do oil rig operators make?

Oil rig operators typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, with experienced workers and those working offshore or in high-demand regions earning higher wages. Compensation often includes shift differentials, overtime pay, and benefits due to the demanding environment and specialized skills required.

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 is a rig operator?

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 job categories do people searching Rig Operator jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Rig Operator jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Rig Operator jobs in CO? For Rig Operator jobs in CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Rig Operator job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,999 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Rig Electrician

Helmerich Payne

Grand Junction, CO • On-site

$25 - $34.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

At H&P, our people are our strength.

Since 1920,Helmerich and Paynehas been the industry's most trusted partner in drillingproductivity and reliability. As the world changes, so does our approach. We are changing the landscape of drilling by using cutting-edge rig technologies and drilling solutions to build upon a century ofsuccess, all while continuing to deliver better outcomes for our customers.

At H&P, our people are our strength. We strive to continually lead with our Core Values that enable employees to develop on their H&P Journey. We believe that doing the right thing means creating a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace that empowers our people to bring their authentic selves to work every day.

Some companies offer career paths. We offer a Journey of a Lifetime. Let's go far, together.

Hear directly from our employees, and leaders about theirunique journeys at Helmerich and Payne.

At a Glance:


The Rig Electrician is primarily responsible for planning layouts, installing, and repairing wires, electrical fixtures, and rig control equipment.

Location: Odessa, TX, Tyler Texas, Oklahoma City, OK, Grand Junction, CO, Dickinson, ND, Barnesville, OH

Work Type: Onsite

#LI-Onsite

What you need:

  • The worker must be at least 18 years of age
  • The worker must pass a post-offer physical examination
  • This position requires between three and five years of prior electrical or electronic controls experience in order to be oriented to skills required in servicing drilling machinery and equipment
  • The worker must have proper legal authorization to work in the country where the rig is operating
  • Steel-toe work boots
  • Passport (International positions only)

Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

***The Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act requires employers in the State of Colorado to disclose the following information. If the position applied to is not located in Colorado, the following information may not apply. In accordance with applicable law, the following represents H&P's good faith estimate of the hiring compensation range for this role. Actual compensation will vary and may be above or below the range as permitted by the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act, based on various factors including but not limited to geographic location, experience, performance, and other considerations permitted by applicable law.

Salary Guidelines:

(Minimum - Maximum)

$25.00 - $34.50

What we offer:

At H&P, our commitment to our people is at the forefront, and that includes benefits that provide employees a sense of health and financial security. We know that life continues outside of employment and actively caring of our people is our priority.

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • Flexible Spending or Health Savings Accounts
  • 401k match
  • Paid Leave Plans
  • Parental & Adoption Benefits
  • Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Educational Assistance
  • Learning & Development Opportunities
  • Flex-scheduling available for qualifying positions to achieve work-life integration

H&P is committed to employing a diverse workforce. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, or disability.

For more information on benefits and job opportunities, please visit Careers | Helmerich & Payne, Inc.

Thank you for your interest in joining our team!

Thank you for your interest in joining our team!