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Tong Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Supervisor-Rig

Milliken, CO · On-site

$92K - $103K/yr

Performs daily operation of the Tong's if needed * Pulls and lays down rods, tubing, casing, and ... Ability to understand Hazard ID cards and near hit cards, as well as follow standard operating ...

Performs daily operation of the Tong's if needed * Pulls and lays down rods, tubing, casing, and ... Ability to understand Hazard ID cards and near hit cards, as well as follow standard operating ...

Performs daily operation of the Tong's if needed * Pulls and lays down rods, tubing, casing, and ... Ability to understand Hazard ID cards and near hit cards, as well as follow standard operating ...

Performs daily operation of the Tong's if needed * Pulls and lays down rods, tubing, casing, and ... Ability to understand Hazard ID cards and near hit cards, as well as follow standard operating ...

Performs daily operation of the Tong's if needed * Pulls and lays down rods, tubing, casing, and ... Ability to understand Hazard ID cards and near hit cards, as well as follow standard operating ...

Performs daily operation of the Tong's if needed * Pulls and lays down rods, tubing, casing, and ... Ability to understand Hazard ID cards and near hit cards, as well as follow standard operating ...

Performs daily operation of the Tong's if needed * Pulls and lays down rods, tubing, casing, and ... Ability to understand Hazard ID cards and near hit cards, as well as follow standard operating ...

Performs daily operation of the Tong's if needed * Pulls and lays down rods, tubing, casing, and ... Ability to understand Hazard ID cards and near hit cards, as well as follow standard operating ...

Performs daily operation of the Tong's if needed * Pulls and lays down rods, tubing, casing, and ... Ability to understand Hazard ID cards and near hit cards, as well as follow standard operating ...

Performs daily operation of the Tong's if needed * Pulls and lays down rods, tubing, casing, and ... Ability to understand Hazard ID cards and near hit cards, as well as follow standard operating ...

Performs daily operation of the Tong's if needed * Pulls and lays down rods, tubing, casing, and ... Ability to understand Hazard ID cards and near hit cards, as well as follow standard operating ...

Performs daily operation of the Tong's if needed * Pulls and lays down rods, tubing, casing, and ... Ability to understand Hazard ID cards and near hit cards, as well as follow standard operating ...

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Tong Operator information

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How much do tong operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for tong operator in the United States is $20.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Tong Operator job?

A Tong Operator is responsible for operating power tongs and other equipment used to grip and handle tubulars, such as drill pipe and casing, in oil and gas drilling or workover operations. They ensure proper torque is applied to connections, follow safety procedures, and assist the rig crew with pipe-handling tasks. This role requires physical strength, mechanical knowledge, and adherence to safety regulations to prevent accidents and equipment failures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Tong Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tong Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, physical strength, attention to safety, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hydraulic tongs, basic rig tools, and safety protocols such as OSHA standards is typically required, and some employers may prefer candidates with certifications like SafeLand or H2S Awareness. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help operators coordinate safely and efficiently with the rig crew. These abilities are important to ensure smooth drilling operations, minimize risk, and maintain a safe and productive work environment.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Tong Operator on an oil or gas rig?

Tong Operators are primarily responsible for operating manual or hydraulic tongs to safely make up and break out drill pipe connections during drilling operations. Daily tasks often include inspecting and maintaining tong equipment, following safety procedures, assisting the drill crew, and reporting any equipment issues to supervisors. You’ll work closely with other rig personnel, such as Derrickhands and Drillers, to ensure that pipe handling operations are smooth and safe. The work is fast-paced, requires constant attention to safety, and may involve long shifts or physically demanding conditions, making teamwork and communication essential to success.
What are the most commonly searched types of Tong Operator jobs? The most popular types of Tong Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Tong Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Tong Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Tong Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Tong Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Tong Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $42,306 per year, or $20.3 per hour.
Supervisor-Rig

$92K - $103K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 hours ago


Ranger Energy Services rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

172nd of 217 rated repair and maintenance companies


Job description

Supervisor - Rig
SUMMARY
The Rig Supervisor manages crew members, maintains productivity standards and works closely with customers ensuring that quality products and services are being safely provided. The Rig Supervisor will need to be able to exhibit working knowledge of all parts on a Workover Rig and should be able to troubleshoot the mechanics of the rig and equipment on site.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Communicates with the management team on the logistics and workflow of rig
  • Works closely with District Manager with regard to the manning and scheduling of the rig, operational, and personnel matters
  • Provides proper guidance and direction to rig crew on job tasks to be performed
  • Performs BOP inspection and testing as needed
  • Assist HSE, DOT, and all other required departments with document management
  • Operates the power swivel, crown and ground saver if needed
  • Accurately perform torque calculations and specs
  • Performs fall protection donning and doffing as required
  • Assist in racking of rod tubing if needed
  • Performs daily operation of the Tong's if needed
  • Pulls and lays down rods, tubing, casing, and other equipment as needed
  • Responsible for keeping work site, equipment, and tools clean and in good working order
  • Ability to understand Hazard ID cards and near hit cards, as well as follow standard operating procedure for completion of cards
  • Assist in the daily inspection and maintenance of equipment
  • Successfully perform elevator handling, hardline construction, and energy isolation procedures
  • Ensure efficient maintenance and utilization of all equipment
  • Train, mentor and demonstrate proper utilization of down-hole tools, power swivels and compressors
  • Track costs, labor and revenues associated with jobs. Provide weekly cost analysis to the operations manager to ensure budgets components are met, as well as time constraints
  • Maintain and coordinate repair of all equipment and tools
  • Provide technical assistance, supervision and training to other team members on location to ensure work is carried out according to set schedules and procedures
  • Establish and maintain a positive work environment for rig crew, including training and coaching them in carrying out their assigned duties
  • Other duties as assigned

REQUIRED EDUCATION, QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
  • 5-8 years of experience working on a well servicing rig preferred
  • Must be able to successfully perform the duties of a rig operator, floor hand, and derrick hand
  • Must be familiar with pump and tank operations
  • Must have a valid state issued driver's license, CDL, or the ability to obtain one
  • Ability to perform manual labor required to operate well servicing equipment
  • Ability to show knowledge of running tongs and all other Ranger Energy equipment
  • Good communication, people, and leadership skills
  • Must be able to multi-task in a fast-paced environment
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States

COMPUTER
  • Proficient knowledge of MS Office preferred

PRE-EMPLOYMENT REQUIRMENTS
  • Must complete and pass all required pre-employment screenings

ABOUT THE COMPANY
Ranger Energy Services is an oil & gas completion and production solutions company with a foundation built on well servicing, wireline, and natural gas processing. Ranger Energy is committed to providing employees with a benefits program that is both comprehensive and competitive. The programs are designed to invest in you and the things you care about - your health, your family, and your future. Come join our team of highly skilled, motivated employees, working on state-of-the-art equipment with outstanding compensation and additional benefits, including:
  • Medical/Dental/Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account/Health Savings Account
  • Life Insurance
  • Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with Employer Match
  • PTO (depending on eligibility)