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Rig Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Trainee

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Knowledge of Rig Service Tools e.g. Power Tongs, BOP, Wrenches * Able to operate Rig Service Tools e.g. Power Tongs, BOP, Wrenches * Basic knowledge of Sand line procedure and process * Basic ...

Trainee

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Knowledge of Rig Service Tools e.g. Power Tongs, BOP, Wrenches * Able to operate Rig Service Tools e.g. Power Tongs, BOP, Wrenches * Basic knowledge of Sand line procedure and process * Basic ...

Knowledge of Rig Service Tools e.g. Power Tongs, BOP, Wrenches * Able to operate Rig Service Tools e.g. Power Tongs, BOP, Wrenches * Basic knowledge of Sand line procedure and process * Basic ...

Knowledge of Rig Service Tools e.g. Power Tongs, BOP, Wrenches * Able to operate Rig Service Tools e.g. Power Tongs, BOP, Wrenches * Basic knowledge of Sand line procedure and process * Basic ...

Crew Worker-Ventura, CA

Ventura, CA · On-site

$12.75 - $16.75/hr

Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and ... CJWS Trainee program. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Critical: * Ability to wear personal ...

Crew Worker

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and ... One-year prior work in an oilfield services environment or completion of CJWS Trainee program.

Crew Worker-Ventura, CA

Ventura, CA · On-site

$12.75 - $16.75/hr

Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and ... CJWS Trainee program. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Critical: * Ability to wear personal ...

Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and ... CJWS Trainee program. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Critical: * Ability to wear personal ...

Crew Worker

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$12.50 - $16.25/hr

Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and ... CJWS Trainee program. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Critical: Ability to wear personal ...

Crew Worker

Bakersfield, CA

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and ... One-year prior work in an oilfield services environment or completion of CJWS Trainee program.

Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and ... CJWS Trainee program. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Critical: * Ability to wear personal ...

Rig Trainee information

See California salary details

$13

$20

$35

How much do rig trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for rig trainee in California is $20.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a rig trainee?

Rig trainees are entry-level workers on oil and gas drilling rigs who are learning the essential skills needed to work safely and efficiently on-site. They assist experienced crew members with various tasks, such as equipment maintenance, cleaning, and basic rig operations, while undergoing hands-on training. The role is designed to provide foundational knowledge and experience for more specialized positions on the rig, such as roughneck or driller. Safety is a key focus, and trainees are expected to follow strict protocols and participate in safety briefings. Over time, rig trainees can advance to higher-level roles as they gain experience and demonstrate competence.

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

To thrive as a Rig Trainee, you need a basic understanding of mechanical operations, physical fitness, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with basic safety equipment, hand tools, and exposure to industry-specific safety certifications such as H2S or first aid is typical. Strong teamwork, communication, and a willingness to learn make someone stand out in this physically demanding role. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining safety, efficiency, and effective collaboration on drilling sites.

What is the difference between Rig Trainee vs Drilling Engineer?

AspectRig TraineeDrilling Engineer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic safety certificationsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; advanced certifications
Work EnvironmentOn-site at drilling rigs, entry-level positionOffice-based with site visits, senior role in planning and management
Employer & Industry UsageOil & gas companies, drilling contractorsOil & gas companies, engineering firms
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Rig Trainee and a Drilling Engineer lies in experience, responsibilities, and qualifications. Rig Trainees are entry-level workers gaining hands-on experience on drilling rigs, while Drilling Engineers are experienced professionals responsible for planning and overseeing drilling operations. Rig Trainees typically have basic certifications and work under supervision, whereas Drilling Engineers require advanced degrees and certifications, with a focus on project management and technical planning.

What are some common challenges faced by rig trainees during their initial months on the job?

Rig Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to the physically demanding work environment, learning safety protocols, and navigating long shifts in potentially harsh weather conditions. Additionally, they must quickly become familiar with specialized equipment and terminology unique to drilling operations. Building effective communication skills with experienced crew members is essential, as teamwork is critical for both safety and operational efficiency. With time and mentorship, these challenges become manageable and are crucial for skill development in the oil and gas industry.
What are the most commonly searched types of Rig jobs in California? The most popular types of Rig jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Rig Trainee jobs? Cities in California with the most Rig Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Rig Trainee job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,414 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Key Accountabilities 

  • Complies with all the Company's Safety and Environmental policies, practices, and programs. Takes corrective action within training limitations. Escalates as necessary
  • Participates in and adheres to all training programs designed to enhance HSE knowledge, safety standards and improve job performance.
  • Performs other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities 

Critical:

  • Ability to perform work in the environment described below

Required:

  • Knowledge of Rig Service Tools e.g. Power Tongs, BOP, Wrenches
  • Able to operate Rig Service Tools e.g. Power Tongs, BOP, Wrenches
  • Basic knowledge of Sand line procedure and process
  • Basic knowledge of Rig Service Procedures and Processes e.g. RU/RD, POOH Rods/Tubing, RIH Rod/Tubing
  • Knowledge of and Compliance with DOT rules and regulations
  • Knowledge of company policies, HSE standards and departmental guidelines
  • Ability to read, write and speak English to the extent that they can understand verbal and written instructions as well as give verbal and written instructions in English
  • Ability to use simple mathematical calculations using whole numbers, fractions and decimals (addition, subtraction, division and multiplication) to make job-related calculations
  • Basic Computer skills
  • Performs other duties as assigned 

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 for this position in California is $20.00 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.