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Tong Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ranger Energy Services LLC

Supervisor-Rig

Artesia, NM · On-site

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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$12

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$29

How much do tong operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A Tong Operator typically earns around $4,000 per week, especially with experience and overtime. Such roles often require specialized skills, physical work, and sometimes certifications, but they do not usually require a college degree. High-paying industrial, construction, or manufacturing jobs can also reach this level without a degree.

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 jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

Jobs that can pay $500,000 or more annually include high-level executive roles such as CEOs and CFOs, successful entrepreneurs, top-tier surgeons, and certain specialized professionals like investment bankers and hedge fund managers. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced skills, and significant responsibility, and compensation may include bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing.

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 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 is the highest paid oil rig job?

The highest paid oil rig job is typically that of a drilling engineer or a toolpusher, with senior positions earning six-figure salaries. These roles require extensive experience, specialized skills, and often involve working long shifts in challenging environments. Compensation varies based on location, experience, and company, but top-tier positions can exceed $150,000 annually.

What jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

A Tong Operator typically earns around $3,000 or more per month, especially with experience and overtime. Other jobs that can pay similar wages without a degree include commercial truck drivers, HVAC technicians, and certain skilled trades like electricians or welders, which often require technical training or certifications rather than a college degree.
More about Tong Operator jobs
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:
Tong Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tong Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,306 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

1st Shift Blacksmith Apprentice (Press)

Aluminium Precision Products

Santa Ana, CA • On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Aluminum Precision Products (APP) is an international leader in manufacturing aluminum forgings. We offer you the opportunity to be a part of a globally recognized organization that enjoys an unparalleled reputation for quality. Here you'll be challenged on a daily basis, tasked with solving problems, working with smart, energetic, and dedicated people with an opportunity to grow and learn.
Job Summary: Blacksmith sets up and operates the various forging presses, working in constant communication with the Blacksmith Apprentice. See different levels below:
Apprentice
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Perform set-up including any adjustments to bolts, clamps, and burner assemblies as needed.
  • Load stock/parts into conveyor oven.
  • Instruct Trainee to assure the production of quality parts
  • Check stock and die temperatures before forging parts.
  • Position stock/part for spray-on lubrication process.
  • Position the piece into the forging die with use of tongs, hydraulic clamps, air-assisted hoist and/or overhead crane
  • Assure quality and production requirements are met, as per job-specific travelers.
MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Education and/or Experience
  • 1 -2 years of High School or equivalent.
  • 3+ month's related manufacturing/production experience.
  • In compliance with ITAR regulations, must be a US Citizen or US Person (U.S. Person = a natural person who is a lawful permanent resident as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20) or who is a protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)).
SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES
  • Basic English (reading, writing, verbal and comprehend)
  • Ability to communicate with co-workers, supervisor, and QC personnel
  • Basic Math and Measuring
Level 1
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Closed Die
  • Operate the forging press at console.
  • Lubricate die surfaces and stock/parts.
  • Instruct Trainee to assure the production of quality parts.
  • Maintain accurate part-counts of current production.
  • Assure quality and production requirements are met, as per job-specific travelers.
Hand Forge
  • Instruct loader on use of the tong manipulator
  • Operate manipulator forklift
  • Perform in-process inspection of product
  • Assure quality and production requirements are met, as per job-specific travelers
MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Education and/or Experience
  • 1-2 years of High School or equivalent.
  • 3+ month's related manufacturing/production experience.
  • Pass Written and Practical Test
  • In compliance with ITAR regulations, must be a US Citizen or US Person (U.S. Person = a natural person who is a lawful permanent resident as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20) or who is a protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)).
Level 2
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Must have ability to display skills of Level 1 plus:
Closed Die
  • Perform in-process inspection of product.
  • Run standard and complex closed die shapes (including wrap dies)
Hand Forge
  • Operate forging press for Hand Forge operations and stress relieve.
  • In-process Inspection of Hand Forgings
  • Instruct operator of the manipulator forklift.
  • Operate the billet saw to cut raw material as necessary.
MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Education and/or Experience
  • 1-2 years of High School or equivalent.
  • 3+ month's related manufacturing/production experience.
  • Pass Written and Practical Test
  • In compliance with ITAR regulations, must be a US Citizen or US Person (U.S. Person = a natural person who is a lawful permanent resident as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20) or who is a protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)).
SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES
  • Basic English (reading, writing, verbal and comprehend)
  • Ability to communicate with co-workers, supervisor, and QC personnel
  • Basic Math and Measuring
Level 3
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Must have ability to display talents of Level 1 & 2
Closed Die
  • Ability to train all levels
  • Ability to operate mechanical press
  • Skill to forge all closed die products
Hand Forge
  • Ability to train all levels
  • Skill to forge all hand forge products
  • Have an ability to operate billet saw
MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Education and/or Experience
  • 1-2 years of High School or equivalent.
  • In compliance with ITAR regulations, must be a US Citizen or US Person (U.S. Person = a natural person who is a lawful permanent resident as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20) or who is a protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)).
SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES
  • Basic English (reading, writing, verbal and comprehend)
  • Ability to communicate with co-workers, supervisor, and QC personnel
  • Basic Math and measuring
  • Ability to use and operate equipment and machinery.
  • Ability to follow specific instructions and directions
  • Able to work in a demanding fast paced environment.
Why work for APP?
  • On-the-job training and opportunities for advancement with a strong promote within program.
  • Medical, Dental, Vision - Generous company contribution, low cost to employee
  • Life insurance - 100% company paid - covers employee, spouse and dependent children
  • Generous Vacation Time
  • 9 Paid Holidays
  • Holiday Shut Down (Christmas thru New Year's)
  • Sick Time
  • Annual Bonus (based on company meeting Key Results)
  • 401k (Company matches up to 4%)
  • ESOP Employee Profit Sharing Retirement Plan (100% Company Paid)
  • Tuition reimbursement

This role may be a good fit for you if you have had experience as a Manufacturing Associate, Production Worker, Machine Operator, Welder, or Metal Fabricator.
Compensation:
Apprentice: $20 - 22.00 per hour
Level 1: $22 - $24.50 per hour
Level 2: $24 - $27.50 per hour
Level 3: $27 - $32 per hour
This is the lowest to highest hourly rate we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. We may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range, and the range may be modified in the future. An employee's pay within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but limited to, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, and business or organizational needs.
APP is an ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) Company and we are committed to the long term growth of our organization and employees. We offer an excellent benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, and 401k plan.
APP, Inc. engineers and manufactures certain products that are considered ITAR-controlled items under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Consistent with ITAR, any position at APP, Inc. that involves work with the engineering or manufacturing functions of the Company may only be filled by a candidate who is (i) a citizen of the United States, or (ii) a person who has been accorded the privilege of residing permanently in the United States as an immigrant in accordance with the immigration laws. Are you a U.S. Citizen or U.S. Person? (U.S. Person = a natural person who is a lawful permanent resident as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20) or who is a protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).)
Accessibility:If you need help accessing this page please contact us by Email: apphr@aluminumprecision.com
Aluminum Precision Products, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, including disability and vets.
If you want to view the EEO is the Law poster in English, Spanish, Arabic, and Chinese please click here.

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