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Rig Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Zero Carbon Systems, Inc.

Operator

Brighton, CO · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Participate in new rig builds for next-generation carbon capture systems by following P&IDs ... Experience following operation and maintenance Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) * Understanding ...

Mears Group, Inc.

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 ...

HP Oilfield Services

Crane Operator

Platteville, CO · On-site

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 ...

1-800-PACK-RAT

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 ...

1-800-PACK-RAT

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 ...

1-800-PACK-RAT LLC

FORKLIFT OPERATOR

Aurora, CO · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

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

NOV, Inc.

Solids Control Operator

Grand Junction, CO · On-site

Complete Solids Control rig-ups, rig-downs, troubleshooting, and minor repairs * Perform Solids Control Analysis of the equipment * Perform electrical rig-ups, rig downs, and minor repairs * Possess ...

NOV, Inc.

Solids Control Operator

Grand Junction, CO · On-site

Complete Solids Control rig-ups, rig-downs, troubleshooting, and minor repairs * Perform Solids Control Analysis of the equipment * Perform electrical rig-ups, rig downs, and minor repairs * Possess ...

Down To Earth Compliance

Seeding Operator-CDL

Aurora, CO · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Reclamation Operator Department: Seeding Reports to: Manager Operating reclamation equipment ... rig). * Ensuring production is as efficient as possible while minimizing downtime. * Proactively ...

Mears Construction

HDD Drill Operators

Henderson, CO · On-site

$30 - $36/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 ...

Ranger Energy Services LLC

Operator-Cement

Milliken, CO · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Operator - Cement SUMMARY The primary duty of the Cement Operator is to operate the controls and ... rig preferred * Must be familiar with pump and tank operations * Must have a valid state issued ...

Axis Energy Administration LLC

Floor Hand

La Salle, CO · On-site

Assists the operator in rigging up and down, lining up the well service rig with the well. * Sets hydraulic jacks, handles pads/boards and assists in attaching the guy wires to the anchor. * Operates ...

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All JobsRig Operator JobsRig Operator Jobs in Colorado

Rig Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$7

$16

$27

How much do rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Rig Operator jobs in Colorado?

For Rig Operator jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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:

Rig Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rig Operator job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 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.

Operator

Zero Carbon Systems, Inc.

Brighton, CO • On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate and monitor Direct Air Capture (DAC) R&D equipment in Brighton, CO.

  • Participate in new rig builds, perform routine inspections, and support testing and data collection activities.

  • Safely operate, troubleshoot, and perform maintenance on plant equipment including pumps, fans, boilers, and related systems.

Job description

About Zero Carbon Systems
Zero Carbon Systems (ZCS) is a clean energy and direct air capture company on a mission to accelerate the transition to a zero carbon future. We are developing and deploying breakthrough technologies designed to reduce atmospheric CO2 at scale, addressing one of the most pressing challenges of our time.
Backed by mission aligned investors and led by a team of passionate innovators, ZCS sits at the intersection of cutting edge science and real world impact. We are building a diverse, collaborative, and driven team of individuals who share our commitment to excellence, creativity, and the belief that the work we do today will shape the world of tomorrow.
If you are energized by meaningful work and want to be part of a company where your contributions directly advance the clean energy transition, we would love to hear from you.
Responsibilities Include:
  • Participate in new rig builds for next-generation carbon capture systems by following P&IDs, assembly drawings, and 3D models provided by engineering staff
  • Monitor and control equipment parameters, adjusting control systems for automated and manually controlled systems
  • Coordinate with staff engineers to perform experimental trials and ensure high quality data generation
  • Conduct visual and analytical inspections as part of in-process quality checks
  • Safely transfer chemicals between containers or systems using approved equipment and methods
  • Perform preliminary troubleshooting to identify root causes of equipment failures
  • Perform safe startup, shutdown, and operation of pumps, fans, boilers, air compressors, and related equipment
  • Become cross-trained in multiple DAC systems
  • Contribute to plant operations, production, and testing activities
  • Change out valves, seals, flow meters, and other mechanical components with support from the Maintenance team and Engineers
  • Utilize the Computerized Maintenance Management Software (CMMS) to document inspection and maintenance tasks
  • Assist with coordination of repairs on production equipment
  • Respond to time-sensitive alerts and take corrective action
  • Work efficiently to minimize plant downtime
  • Understand and follow OSHA, EPA, and company-specific safety procedures for hazardous materials
  • Provide input on tools or devices which can improve workflow
  • Engage in startup and safety review for key equipment
  • Provide feedback on equipment design, operability and maintainability to design team
  • Collect samples and perform analytical tests

Requirements Include:
  • 5+ years of experience operating industrial process equipment
  • Proficiency in assembling complex mechanical systems
  • Basic fabrication skills: cutting, drilling, bending, etc.
  • Basic pipefittings (flanges, unions, Swagelok, threaded connections, soft tubing, push to connect)
  • Experience reading Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), mechanical drawings
  • Experience following operation and maintenance Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
  • Understanding of general process operation basics including pressure, heat transfer, and fluid flow
  • Experience with plant control systems and/or Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs) for automated process control
  • Ability to take precise measurements using common tools: measuring tape, calipers, meters, etc.
  • Experienced in the safe use and operation of hand tools and power tools
  • Ability and willingness to adhere to company and OSHA safety protocols
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Windows, Excel, Teams, Outlook)
  • Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively in a team-oriented environment
  • Flexibility to adjust focus and respond to evolving priorities with minimal notice
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Strong mathematical aptitude

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Safety certifications: OSHA 10/30, HazCom, PPE, Spill Response trainings, formal Lockout/Tagout training
  • Experience with using maintenance software (CMMS)
  • Chemical / Pharma / Food plant operations experience

$35 - $40 an hour
Zero Carbon Systems is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Your Right to Work
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

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