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Rig Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Rig Operator, reporting to the assigned Tool Pusher/Field Supervisor, leads a 4-5-person workover rig crew, and is responsible for performing and safely operating well workover components and ...

The Rig Operator is responsible for application of chemicals and fertilizer; general vehicle and equipment maintenance; and providing maximum service to customers. The Rig Operator is also ...

The Rig Operator is responsible for application of chemicals and fertilizer; general vehicle and equipment maintenance; and providing maximum service to customers. The Rig Operator is also ...

Here is what Key Rig Operators do: • They work closely with the Supervisor and our valued customer to ensure that Key Energy delivers outstanding service quality. • Operating a workover rig to ...

Description The Rig Operator is responsible for application of chemicals and fertilizer; general vehicle and equipment maintenance; and providing maximum service to customers. The Rig Operator is ...

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Rig Operator information

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$7

$15

$25

How much do rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for rig operator in the United States is $15.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $8.41 and $19.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

Some high-paying jobs for rig operators or similar skilled trades can reach $2000 per day, especially with extensive experience, specialized certifications, or working in remote or high-risk environments such as offshore drilling or large construction projects. These roles often require advanced technical skills, safety training, and long or irregular hours. However, such high daily rates are typically associated with senior positions or contract work in specialized industries.

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 does a drill rig operator make?

A drill rig operator typically earns between $45,000 and $75,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and knowledge of drilling equipment can earn higher wages, especially in remote or high-demand areas.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A rig operator in the oil and gas industry can earn $10,000 or more per month with experience and specialized training, often without requiring a college degree. These roles involve operating heavy equipment in challenging environments and may require certifications such as OSHA safety training. High-paying positions are typically found in remote or offshore locations with demanding schedules.

What is the role of a rig operator?

A rig operator is responsible for operating and maintaining drilling equipment used in the extraction of oil and gas. They monitor drilling processes, ensure safety protocols are followed, and may operate heavy machinery such as drill presses and hoisting systems. Certification and knowledge of safety standards are essential for this role.

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.
More about Rig Operator jobs
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What states have the most Rig Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Rig Operator jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Rig Operator jobs? For Rig Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Rig Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 39% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 32% Contract, and 27% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,333 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Key Accountabilities 

  • 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.