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Rig Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MDB Group

Foundation Specialist Trainee

Providence, RI · On-site

About The Opportunity The Foundation Specialist Trainee will perform job specific instructions from ... Becomes familiar working around micropile drill rig and learns terminology related to installation ...

MDB Group

Foundation Specialist Trainee

Gardiner, ME · On-site

About The Opportunity The Foundation Specialist Trainee will perform job specific instructions from ... Becomes familiar working around micropile drill rig and learns terminology related to installation ...

MDB Group

Foundation Specialist Trainee

Albany, NY · On-site

About The Opportunity The Foundation Specialist Trainee will perform job specific instructions from ... Becomes familiar working around micropile drill rig and learns terminology related to installation ...

MDB Group

Foundation Specialist Trainee

Worcester, MA · On-site

About The Opportunity The Foundation Specialist Trainee will perform job specific instructions from ... Becomes familiar working around micropile drill rig and learns terminology related to installation ...

MDB Group

Foundation Specialist Trainee

Augusta, ME · On-site

About The Opportunity The Foundation Specialist Trainee will perform job specific instructions from ... Becomes familiar working around micropile drill rig and learns terminology related to installation ...

MDB Group

Foundation Specialist Trainee

Milford, MA · On-site

About The Opportunity The Foundation Specialist Trainee will perform job specific instructions from ... Becomes familiar working around micropile drill rig and learns terminology related to installation ...

MDB Group

Foundation Specialist Trainee

Middletown, CT · On-site

About The Opportunity The Foundation Specialist Trainee will perform job specific instructions from ... Becomes familiar working around micropile drill rig and learns terminology related to installation ...

MDB Group

Foundation Specialist Trainee

Argyle, NY · On-site

About The Opportunity The Foundation Specialist Trainee will perform job specific instructions from ... Becomes familiar working around micropile drill rig and learns terminology related to installation ...

MDB Group

Foundation Specialist Trainee

Manchester, NH · On-site

About The Opportunity The Foundation Specialist Trainee will perform job specific instructions from ... Becomes familiar working around micropile drill rig and learns terminology related to installation ...

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How much do rig trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for rig trainee in the United States is $21.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 rig trainees?

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 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 cities are hiring for Rig Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Rig Trainee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Rig jobs? The most popular types of Rig jobs are:
What states have the most Rig Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Rig Trainee jobs include:
Rig Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rig Trainee job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $43,990 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Foundation Specialist Trainee

MDB Group

Providence, RI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted yesterday

Job description

About Us
Come work with the best! At Maine Drilling & Blasting (MD&B) we work like owners because we are owners. As a majority employee owned ESOP Company, we work with the unity of family and the determination of business owners. Our standard is to achieve operational excellence at all levels of the organization, whether we are serving internal or external customers. We are fueled by success, because we are personally vested in the outcome.
In addition to our employer-contributed Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) retirement program, we also have a traditional Company matched 401(k), health, dental, vision, life, and disability benefits.
If advancement is what you're looking for, we offer that also. Our learning and development opportunities are industry leading, and the formula for our success is centered on promotion from within.
Intrigued? Read on to learn more about specific opportunities to join our dedicated team.
About The Opportunity
The Foundation Specialist Trainee will perform job specific instructions from the Drill Operators, Foreman and Superintendents. This position requires commitment to safety and will learn operation of the fundamental pieces of equipment used daily within Foundation Services Group.
That means that you will be expected to:
Essential Duties
  • Performs daily maintenance activities required for safe and efficient operation of equipment.
  • Understands, adheres to and follows all Company Safety Policies and Procedures.
  • Becomes familiar working around micropile drill rig and learns terminology related to installation of various foundation elements; rock anchors, micropiles, tiebacks, slope stabilization.
  • Supports Drill Operator and acts as chuck tender; handles rod wrench, greases drill steel, installs & removes pac-man, assists with air compressor maintenance.
  • Learns operation of forklift, grout machine, typical rock anchor load testing, & micropile drill rig.
  • Learns the cost & maintenance of various drill accessories; bits, down the hole hammer and potential downtime if accessories are not maintained & on hand.
  • Learns and understands the Field Accounting system and will accurately complete and submit timely paperwork including drill logs, load test logs, and signed timecard.
  • Completes all required incentives and advances to Foundation Specialist I within first 12-18 months during employment.
  • Participates in daily heads-up safety meetings and attends Foreman safety meetings.
  • Performs out of town and state travel as necessary.
  • Demonstrates a commitment to the "Safety First" mantra throughout the Company.

Here's what we will need from you:
Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Possesses a valid state driver's license with access to reliable transportation.
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment physical exam and drug/alcohol test.
  • Effective communication skills.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude.
  • Understands functions of equipment & can operate equipment safely.
  • Ability to work in a team-oriented environment.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to perform prolonged periods of standing, walking, and reaching, as well as lifting, pushing, and pulling. Performs stooping and bending 30 to 40% of the time.
  • Must be able to lift 50 to 100lbs., 30 to 40% of the time.
  • Must be able to tolerate exposure to excess noise under strenuous working conditions.
  • Ability to perform work on uneven and loose surfaces in varying weather conditions.
  • Manual dexterity as needed to operate a variety of power tools, equipment, and machinery.
  • Maintains a respiratory fit test and respirator.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.
Check out this webpage to learn more about the Foundation Services Group:
https://www.mdandb.com/foundation-services-group
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.

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