1

Snubbing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

RIGGER

San Diego, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $33/hr

You will assist in ship docking operations by laying out and handling lines and tackle, snubbing lines on cleats or bollards, hauling on lines with capstans, and performing similar duties. You will ...

2026-2027 Wells Engineer

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$120K - $144K/yr

... snubbing units. As part of your development, you will participate in the Wells Horizons program. Horizons is an employee development program designed to accelerate the knowledge, skills and self ...

RIGGER

San Diego, CA · On-site +1

$27.38 - $45.79/hr

You will assist in ship docking operations by laying out and handling lines and tackle, snubbing lines on cleats or bollards, hauling on lines with capstans, and performing similar duties. * You will ...

RIGGER

San Diego, CA

$25.50 - $33/hr

You will assist in ship docking operations by laying out and handling lines and tackle, snubbing lines on cleats or bollards, hauling on lines with capstans, and performing similar duties. * You will ...

RIGGER

San Diego, CA

$25.50 - $33/hr

You will assist in ship docking operations by laying out and handling lines and tackle, snubbing lines on cleats or bollards, hauling on lines with capstans, and performing similar duties. * You will ...

Mechanical Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$130K - $180K/yr

Vibration isolation system design including isolator selection, snubbing, and modal analysis * Shock analysis and design including fragility assessment, cushion design, and drop/transportation ...

Mechanical Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$130K - $180K/yr

Vibration isolation system design including isolator selection, snubbing, and modal analysis * Shock analysis and design including fragility assessment, cushion design, and drop/transportation ...

Snubbing information

See California salary details

$10

$18

$25

How much do snubbing jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for snubbing in California is $18.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $19.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a snubbing?

A snubbing job involves using a hydraulic snubbing unit to run or remove pipe from a well under pressure without having to kill the well. Snubbing is commonly used in well intervention, completion, and workover operations to maintain well control while working on live wells. Operators in this role handle specialized equipment and ensure safety procedures are followed to prevent blowouts. Snubbing is essential for maintaining well integrity and increasing production without costly shutdowns. It requires skilled personnel trained in pressure control and rig operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in snubbing?

To thrive in Snubbing, candidates need expertise in well intervention operations, mechanical aptitude, and a solid understanding of oil and gas industry safety standards, typically gained through technical training or field experience. Familiarity with hydraulic snubbing units, pressure control equipment, and certifications such as Well Control or H2S Alive are commonly required. Strong teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help snubbing professionals work safely in high-pressure environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure the safe and efficient maintenance of live wells, minimize downtime, and support overall project success.

What are some common challenges faced by snubbing operators, and how are they addressed on the job?

Snubbing operators often work under high-pressure conditions involving live wells, which requires constant vigilance and adherence to strict safety protocols. Challenges can include responding quickly to unexpected well behavior, managing heavy equipment in remote locations, and collaborating closely with other crew members during extended shifts. These challenges are addressed through comprehensive training, rigorous safety drills, and strong team communication. Most companies provide ongoing support and ensure that operators have access to specialized equipment and up-to-date safety procedures to maintain a safe and productive work environment.

How much do snubbing operators make?

Snubbing operators typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the operations. They often work in the oil and gas industry, operating specialized equipment such as snubbing units to perform well interventions and well maintenance tasks.

Is snubbing a hard job?

Snubbing is a demanding job in the oil and gas industry that involves operating high-pressure equipment to control well pressure during drilling or completion. It requires technical skills, attention to safety protocols, and often involves working in challenging environments and long shifts. The job can be physically and mentally intensive due to the high-risk nature of the work.

What are popular job titles related to Snubbing jobs in California?

For Snubbing jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Snubbing jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Snubbing jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Snubbing job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,493 per year, or $18 per hour.

$25.50 - $33/hr

Other

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Job Title

The job title is not provided in the raw HTML.

Job Description

You will direct the operation of cranes and similar equipment and direct laborers and helpers.

You will fabricate, install, and repair standing and running rigging and wire cable or fiber rope articles, such as slings, towing bridles, nets, rope ladders, and other ship and boat rigging and weight handling gear.

You will assist in ship docking operations by laying out and handling lines and tackle, snubbing lines on cleats or bollards, hauling on lines with capstans, and performing similar duties.

You will install beam clamps, gin poles, gallows frames, and other supporting structures; and use jacks, pulley blocks, chain falls, rollers, and similar equipment as necessary to move and position heavy items.

You will perform and direct the placement, removal, or re-positioning of machinery, structural members of ships or buildings, heavy equipment, or other loads.

You will estimate the size, weight, equipment capacity, and plans for clearance and safety factors.

You will guide and direct apprentices and helpers in proper and safe rigging practices.