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Trainee Drilling Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Driller Trainee - Orlando

Orlando, FL

$21.50 - $29.25/hr

DRILLER TRAINEE Our Orlando office has an opportunity available for a Driller Trainee. A driller ... engineering studies. Site investigation/geotechnical drilling is done to determine the soil ...

Driller Trainee - Orlando

Orlando, FL · On-site

$21.50 - $29.25/hr

DRILLER TRAINEE Our Orlando office has an opportunity available for a Driller Trainee. A driller ... engineering studies. Site investigation/geotechnical drilling is done to determine the soil ...

Driller Trainee - Orlando

Orlando, FL · On-site

$21.50 - $29.25/hr

DRILLER TRAINEE Our Orlando office has an opportunity available for a Driller Trainee. A driller ... engineering studies. Site investigation/geotechnical drilling is done to determine the soil ...

Driller Trainee - Miami

Hialeah, FL · On-site

$20.75 - $28.25/hr

DRILLER TRAINEE Our Miami office has an opportunity available for a Driller Trainee. A driller ... engineering studies. Site investigation/geotechnical drilling is done to determine the soil ...

Driller Trainee - Miami

Hialeah, FL · On-site

$20.75 - $28.25/hr

DRILLER TRAINEE Our Miami office has an opportunity available for a Driller Trainee. A driller ... engineering studies. Site investigation/geotechnical drilling is done to determine the soil ...

Driller Trainee - Miami

Hialeah, FL · On-site

$20.75 - $28.25/hr

DRILLER TRAINEE Our Miami office has an opportunity available for a Driller Trainee. A driller ... engineering studies. Site investigation/geotechnical drilling is done to determine the soil ...

Driller Trainee - Fort Myers

Fort Myers, FL · On-site

$21.50 - $29.25/hr

DRILLER TRAINEE Our Fort Myer's office has an opportunity available for a Driller Trainee. A ... engineering studies. Site investigation/geotechnical drilling is done to determine the soil ...

Driller Trainee - Fort Myers

Fort Myers, FL · On-site

$21.50 - $29.25/hr

DRILLER TRAINEE Our Fort Myer's office has an opportunity available for a Driller Trainee. A ... engineering studies. Site investigation/geotechnical drilling is done to determine the soil ...

Driller Trainee - Fort Myers

Fort Myers, FL

$21.50 - $29.25/hr

DRILLER TRAINEE Our Fort Myer's office has an opportunity available for a Driller Trainee. A ... engineering studies. Site investigation/geotechnical drilling is done to determine the soil ...

Specialty Driller Trainee

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

Support Drilling Operations: Assist with the operation, mobilization, and maintenance of drilling ... This is more than a job; it's a chance to build a long-term career in the engineering and ...

Specialty Driller Trainee

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

Support Drilling Operations: Assist with the operation, mobilization, and maintenance of drilling ... This is more than a job; it's a chance to build a long-term career in the engineering and ...

Specialty Driller Trainee

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

Support Drilling Operations: Assist with the operation, mobilization, and maintenance of drilling ... This is more than a job; it's a chance to build a long-term career in the engineering and ...

Specialty Driller Trainee

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

Support Drilling Operations: Assist with the operation, mobilization, and maintenance of drilling ... This is more than a job; it's a chance to build a long-term career in the engineering and ...

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Trainee Drilling Engineer information

See salary details

$13

$21

$36

How much do trainee drilling engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee drilling engineer 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 is a trainee drilling engineer?

Trainee Drilling Engineers are entry-level professionals who assist in planning, designing, and overseeing drilling operations in the oil and gas industry. They work under the supervision of experienced engineers to learn about drilling techniques, safety procedures, and the use of specialized equipment. Their responsibilities often include monitoring drilling progress, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations, and solving technical problems that arise during drilling operations. This role serves as a foundation for gaining practical experience and advancing to more senior engineering positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trainee drilling engineer?

To thrive as a Trainee Drilling Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, typically supported by a degree in petroleum, mechanical, or civil engineering. Familiarity with drilling software (such as Landmark or WellPlan), safety certifications (like IWCF or Well Control), and industry-standard equipment is important. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you collaborate effectively and adapt to challenging field conditions. These abilities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and cost-effective drilling operations in demanding environments.

What are some common challenges faced by a trainee drilling engineer in their first year, and how can they be addressed?

As a Trainee Drilling Engineer, you may encounter challenges such as adapting to the demanding work schedule, learning complex drilling operations, and effectively communicating with multidisciplinary teams on site. The fast-paced environment requires quick problem-solving and attention to safety protocols. To overcome these challenges, actively seek mentorship from experienced engineers, participate in hands-on training, and familiarize yourself with the latest industry technologies and regulations. Building strong relationships with team members and being proactive in asking questions can also ease your transition into the role.

What is the difference between Trainee Drilling Engineer vs Junior Drilling Engineer?

AspectTrainee Drilling EngineerJunior Drilling Engineer
QualificationsTypically pursuing or recently completed engineering degree, some certificationsEngineering degree completed, relevant certifications often obtained
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, supervised drilling operationsActive participation in drilling projects under supervision
ResponsibilitiesAssisting in planning and monitoring drilling activitiesExecuting drilling tasks, data collection, and reporting

The main difference is that a Trainee Drilling Engineer is in the learning phase, focusing on gaining practical experience, while a Junior Drilling Engineer has more hands-on responsibilities and independent tasks. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but the Junior level involves more active participation in drilling operations.

How much do trainee drilling engineers get paid?

Trainee drilling engineers typically earn between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on the location, company, and level of experience. Entry-level positions often include training on drilling equipment and safety protocols, with salaries increasing as skills and certifications develop.

How to become a trainee drilling engineer with no experience?

To become a trainee drilling engineer with no experience, candidates typically need a relevant degree such as petroleum, mechanical, or civil engineering. Gaining basic knowledge of drilling operations, safety protocols, and industry tools through online courses or certifications can improve prospects; some companies also offer entry-level trainee programs for individuals with strong technical aptitude and willingness to learn. Practical experience is often gained on-site or through internships, which can be valuable for career progression.
More about Trainee Drilling Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Trainee Drilling Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Trainee Drilling Engineer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Drilling Engineer jobs?

The most popular types of Drilling Engineer jobs are:

What states have the most Trainee Drilling Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Trainee Drilling Engineer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Trainee Drilling Engineer jobs?

For Trainee Drilling Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Trainee Drilling Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,990 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Drill Rig Operator/Trainee 1/Trainee 2

Latham, NY • On-site

New York State
Public Administration • 10K+ employees

$53K - $73K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Obtain soil and rock samples for engineering purposes and record sample blow counts during borehole progression.

  • Drive, set up, and operate drilling equipment and support vehicles, including manually drilling hand auger holes, probes, and test pits.

  • Perform maintenance, minor repairs, and supervise the drill crew in the absence of the Drill Rig Operator.


New York State rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 189 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Duties Description As a Drill Rig Operator Trainee, the candidate may, under the supervision of a Drill Rig Operator: obtain soil and rock samples for engineering purposes; record sample blow counts during progression of the borehole; progress borehole by means of hollow stem auger, mud rotary, drilled-in casing, driven casing, or rock coring; measure drill tools and measure and record depth to water and thickness of geological strata; prepare field drill log and maintain productivity and equipment records; drive drilling equipment and support vehicles to borehole site and set up drilling equipment; manually drill hand auger holes, probes, and test pits; operate bulldozers, pumps, and grout mixers; set up maintenance and traffic protection; perform traffic flagging; perform preventative maintenance and minor repairs on all drilling equipment; train Drill Rig Operator Trainees and laborers; and supervise the drill crew in the absence of the Drill Rig Operator. Responsibilities may include serving a role within the Incident Command System to support the department's response to regional and statewide emergency situations. Minimum Qualifications This is a two-year traineeship that allows the successful candidate to start at the salary level appropriate for the candidate's work experience.

All levels require frequent and independent statewide travel from a Region 1 (Latham) base. Drill Rig Operator Trainee 1, NS=Grade 9 Non-Competitive: Candidate must possess a valid New York State Class D driver's license and be able to pass a medical and physical examination demonstrating the ability to perform physical labor prior to permanent appointment. Special requirement: Candidate must acquire a New York State Class B commercial driver's license permit by six months into the traineeship.

Drill Rig Operator Trainee 2, NS=Grade 11 Non-Competitive: Candidate must have one year of experience working as a driller's helper in an organization that does geotechnical drilling; possess a valid New York State Class B commercial driver's license without air-brake restriction; must pass a medical and physical examination demonstrating ability to perform physical labor and, within 30 calendar days of hire, must satisfactorily demonstrate ability to meet Drill Rig Operator Trainee 1 drilling skills and pump operation, and have acceptable knowledge of safety, traffic control, and drill tool identification. Special requirement: Candidate must acquire a New York State Class A commercial driver's license by six months into the traineeship. Drill Rig Operator (SG-12) Non-Competitive: Candidate must have two years of experience assisting in the operation of drilling equipment used for acquiring samples of rock, soil, and pavement, and measuring ground water as part of subsurface exploration for geotechnical engineering purposes; possess a valid Class A commercial driver's license without air-brake restriction; must pass a medical examination demonstrating ability to perform heavy physical labor and drilling and within 30 calendar days of hire, must satisfactorily demonstrate ability to meet Drill Rig Operator Trainee 2 drilling and safety skills, know visual soil identification, and complete introduction to instrumentation; and within six months of hire, must complete 40-hour OSHA HAZWOPER training to identify and deal with hazardous material.

Failure to demonstrate required skill level within 30 calendar days would mandate appointment at the Drill Rig Operator Trainee 2 or Drill Rig Operator Trainee 1 level, as appropriate. Additional Comments Additional Information The starting salary for this position is $53,560. This amount is comprised of the base hiring salary of $44,560 with an additional geographic pay differential of $9,000, specific to this title and location.

The maximum compensation for this position is $73,321. This amount is comprised of the standard SG-12 job rate of $64,321 with an additional geographic pay differential of $9,000, specific to this title and location. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.

The salary range listed reflects the full range for this graded position. For new State employees appointed into graded positions, the annual salary is the hiring rate (beginning of the Salary Range) of the position. Promotion salaries are calculated by the NYS Office of the State Comptroller in accordance with NYS Civil Service Law, OSC Payroll rules and regulations and negotiated union contracts.

For more salary information please visit https://oer.ny.gov/salary-schedules DOT is an equal opportunity employer. Disabled persons are encouraged to apply. In compliance with Public Law 99-603, candidates selected for appointment must provide an original document to prove their citizenship and/or legal right to work in the United States

Candidates for employment must have proper authorization to work in the United States at the time an offer of employment is made. The Department will not sponsor a nonimmigrant for a temporary employment visa (H-1B or similar), OPT STEM, or for permanent residence. Offers of permanent employment may not be made to nonimmigrants whose employment authorization is limited to a period of practical training (F-1 or similar).

Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.


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