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Toolpusher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Intec Sea

Driller

Houston, TX · On-site

$22 - $29.75/hr

Liaising with the Drilling Section Leader and Toolpusher with regard to allowing the Assistant Driller to operate drilling equipment.

INTEC SEA

Driller

Houston, TX · On-site

$22 - $29.75/hr

Liaising with the Drilling Section Leader and Toolpusher with regard to allowing the Assistant Driller to operate drilling equipment.

Valaris

Assistant Driller

Houston, TX · On-site

$22 - $29.75/hr

Follows standard instructions and maintains good communication with the Driller and Toolpusher; provides notification of any concern, ensuring any deviation is properly communicated and documented.

NABORS

FIELD.ELECTRICIAN I

New Iberia, LA · On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

This team, consisting of the Mechanic, Electrician, Motorman (where appropriate), and Welder, work under the supervision and direction of the Toolpusher. As such, it is imperative that each member of ...

Valaris

Assistant Driller

Houston, TX · On-site

$22 - $29.75/hr

Follows standard instructions and maintains good communication with the Driller and Toolpusher; provides notification of any concern, ensuring any deviation is properly communicated and documented.

Highlands Drilling LLC

Floorhand

Weston, WV

During non-drilling operations, the rig hand's work activities include repair and maintenance of the drilling equipment as directed by the driller, mechanic, or toolpusher. During relocation of the ...

Valaris

Assistant Driller

Houston, TX · On-site

$22 - $29.75/hr

Follows standard instructions and maintains good communication with the Driller and Toolpusher; provides notification of any concern, ensuring any deviation is properly communicated and documented.

Doyon Limited

Rig Electrician

Prudhoe Bay, AK · On-site

$30.25 - $39/hr

Tests malfunctioning machinery and discusses malfunction with other workers, such as Toolpusher, Mechanic, Welder, Motorman, and Driller, to diagnose malfunction. * Replaces faulty electrical ...

Valaris

Assistant Driller

Houston, TX · On-site

$22 - $29.75/hr

Follows standard instructions and maintains good communication with the Driller and Toolpusher; provides notification of any concern, ensuring any deviation is properly communicated and documented.

All JobsToolpusher Jobs

Toolpusher information

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$14

$27

$43

How much do toolpusher jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for toolpusher in the United States is $27.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.12 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical career progression opportunities for a Toolpusher in the oil and gas industry?

Many Toolpushers advance from positions such as Driller or Assistant Driller and can continue progressing to senior management roles like Rig Manager, Operations Superintendent, or even higher-level corporate positions within drilling operations. The experience gained as a Toolpusher in overseeing crew members, coordinating drilling activities, and managing safety gives professionals a solid foundation for career growth. Companies often encourage further training and leadership development, offering pathways into planning, training, or operational support roles. Demonstrating expertise, a strong safety record, and effective leadership are key to unlocking these advancement opportunities.

What is a Toolpusher job?

A Toolpusher is a senior rig supervisor responsible for overseeing drilling operations, crew management, and equipment maintenance on an oil rig. They ensure that drilling activities run smoothly, safely, and efficiently while complying with industry regulations. Toolpushers coordinate between rig workers, company representatives, and on-site engineers to address operational challenges. Their role requires extensive experience in drilling operations and strong leadership skills to manage personnel and ensure productivity.

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

To thrive as a Toolpusher, you need strong leadership abilities, extensive drilling operations knowledge, and several years of field experience as a driller or assistant driller, often supported by safety and management certifications such as Well Control or HSE. Familiarity with rig management systems, drilling equipment, and regulatory compliance tools is crucial for daily operations. Excellent decision-making, communication, and problem-solving skills help Toolpushers effectively lead crews and maintain operational efficiency. These skills ensure safe, productive drilling operations and the successful management of complex teams in demanding environments.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A Toolpusher, a supervisory role in oil drilling operations, can earn around $4,000 or more per week, especially with experience and certifications. Other high-paying jobs without a degree include commercial pilots, certain sales managers, and specialized trades like elevator installers, but these often require specific skills or licenses. Most roles paying this much typically involve physical work, technical skills, or industry-specific certifications.

What does a toolpusher do?

A toolpusher is a supervisory role on an oil drilling rig responsible for managing drilling operations, overseeing crew members, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. They coordinate equipment, monitor drilling progress, and communicate with engineers and management. Strong leadership, technical knowledge of drilling equipment, and safety certifications are essential for this position.

How to become a toolpusher?

To become a toolpusher, you typically need extensive experience as a roughneck or derrickhand, along with a valid Well Control certification and a high school diploma or equivalent. Many employers prefer candidates with a few years of offshore or onshore drilling experience and knowledge of drilling equipment and safety procedures. Advancement often involves gaining supervisory skills and certifications specific to the oil and gas industry.

What does a toolpusher make?

A toolpusher is a supervisory role in the oil and gas industry responsible for overseeing drilling operations. They typically earn a salary that ranges from $80,000 to over $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. Compensation may also include bonuses and benefits related to the demanding work environment and certifications held.
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Toolpusher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Toolpusher job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,259 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Surface Core Driller

Nasco Industrial Services & Supply

Kellogg, ID • On-site

$21 - $28.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

NISS – Surface Core Driller

Location: Western USA
Position Type: Full-time, rotational (e.g. 14 days on / 7 days off or 20 days on / 10 days off or similar)
Reporting To: Toolpusher / Site Supervisor

About NISS

At NISS, we specialize in high-quality surface and helicopter supported core drilling for the mining, exploration, and geotechnical sectors. Safety, professionalism, and efficiency are at the heart of everything we do. We invest in our people, providing training, career paths, and competitive compensation.

Position Overview

We are seeking experienced Surface Core Drillers to join our field crew. The successful candidates will help operate core drilling rigs, supervise drilling assistants, maintain equipment, and ensure safe and efficient operations.

Drilling operations run 24/7 in many projects — shifts include both day and night work. You must be ready to work in remote or rugged locations and maintain a strong safety mindset.

Key Responsibilities
  • Operate and maintain core drilling rigs, downhole tooling, and associated support equipment
  • Lead and supervise drill assistants, train and mentor new crew members
  • Execute and document pre-shift inspections, toolbox talks, rig moves, and site set up
  • Handle drill rods, casing, core barrels, sample handling, and drill rig consumables
  • Monitor drilling parameters and make adjustments as needed to maintain production and safety
  • Maintain accurate field logs, sample records, production data, and daily reports
  • Perform equipment maintenance, basic repairs, and troubleshooting on the rig
  • Ensure housekeeping, site cleanliness, and compliance with safety protocols
  • Communicate transparently with Toolpusher, Supervisors, Project Managers and clients
  • Adhere to all company, client, and regulatory safety requirements
Qualifications & Requirements
  • Proven experience in surface core drilling or similar roles (geotechnical, exploration)
  • Ability to lead a small crew and supervise daily operations
  • Basic mechanical aptitude — understanding of diesel engines, hydraulics, drilling tools, etc.
  • Strong commitment to safety, with experience in safe work practices
  • Physical capability to lift up to 100+ lbs., work at heights, and perform strenuous tasks
  • Ability to work long hours (often 12-hour shifts), in remote or extreme weather conditions
  • Valid driver’s license, clean driving record
  • Pass pre-employment physical, drug & background screening
  • Willingness to adhere to rotational schedule (e.g. 14 on / 7 off or 20 on / 10 off)
  • Comfortable living on site and adapting to changing field conditions
  • Good communication skills and ability to work well in a team
Work Schedule & Conditions
  • Typical rotations: 14 days on / 7 days off (or per project schedule)
  • Other rotations: 20 days on / 10 days off or 28 days on / 14 days off
  • 12-hour shifts (day and night) — rigs operate 24/7
  • Remote, rugged locations with travel required
  • Camp-style living, with site accommodations and meals provided
  • Exposure to extreme weather, uneven terrain, and physically demanding tasks
Compensation & Benefits
  • Competitive hourly wage or salary (based on experience)
  • Overtime and shift premium pay
  • Travel per diem when required
  • Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision, life, etc.)
  • Retirement plan / 401(k) or equivalent
  • Training and career development opportunities
  • Progressive advancement track (Driller → Lead Driller → Foreman / Toolpusher)

Apply