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Trainee Oil Rig Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Swift Lumber

Sawmill Relief Machine Operator

Atmore, AL · On-site

$18/hr

The sawmill machine operator trainee will learn the skills to control automated equipment in the ... Operate automated equipment, such as head rig, saws and planing machines , to cut, trim, and shape ...

Key Energy Services

Floorhand 1 - 2055

Kilgore, TX · On-site

This position is one of a crew of a well service rig responsible for performing services on oil and ... Incumbent follows trainee matrix assignments during training period. This position has a dotted ...

Key Energy Services

Floorhand 1 - 2076

Alice, TX · On-site

This position is one of a crew of a well service rig responsible for performing services on oil and ... Incumbent follows trainee matrix assignments during training period. This position has a dotted ...

New

Key Energy Services

Floorhand 1 - 2011

Kilgore, TX · On-site

This position is one of a crew of a well service rig responsible for performing services on oil and ... Incumbent follows trainee matrix assignments during training period. This position has a dotted ...

KLX Energy Services

$138K - $138K/yr

Train, coach, and mentor trainees. * Develop expertise on advanced fishing techniques. * Plan and ... Maintain communication with client well site representative, rig crew, and field support staff.

KLX Energy Services

Technical Services - Fishing

Gillette, WY · On-site

$115K - $116K/yr

Train, coach, and mentor trainees. * Develop expertise on advanced fishing techniques. * Plan and ... Maintain communication with client well site representative, rig crew, and field support staff.

Scientific Drilling Inc.

MWD Operator - Midland, TX

Odessa, TX · On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

... Trainees. Scientific Drilling is an independent directional drilling and wellbore navigation ... Becomes familiar with the oilfield in general and company specific tools and services.Works under ...

Scientific Drilling Inc.

MWD Operator - Midland, TX

Odessa, TX · On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

... Trainees. Scientific Drilling is an independent directional drilling and wellbore navigation ... Becomes familiar with the oilfield in general and company specific tools and services. * Works ...

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Trainee Oil Rig information

See salary details

$25.5K

$43.5K

$63.5K

How much do trainee oil rig jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee oil rig in the United States is $43,530.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,000.00 and $51,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Trainee Oil Rig vs Oil Rig Worker?

AspectTrainee Oil RigOil Rig Worker
CredentialsBasic safety certifications, on-the-job trainingAdvanced safety certifications, technical skills
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, supervised environmentOperational oil rigs, hands-on work
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level trainees in oil & gas industryExperienced personnel on oil rigs

The main difference is that a Trainee Oil Rig is an entry-level position focused on learning and gaining experience, often requiring basic safety certifications. An Oil Rig Worker is a more experienced role involving direct operational tasks on the rig. Trainees are supervised and in training, while oil rig workers perform hands-on work essential to rig operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trainee oil rig, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trainee Oil Rig Worker, you need physical fitness, basic mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or GED. Familiarity with safety equipment, personal protective gear, and basic rig operations is important, and certifications like Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET) are often required. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication help individuals excel in the challenging and often remote environment. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure safety, efficiency, and reliability in demanding oil rig operations.

What is a trainee oil rig?

Trainee oil rig workers are entry-level employees who are learning the basics of working on an oil rig, often under the supervision of experienced crew members. Their responsibilities may include assisting with drilling operations, maintaining equipment, and ensuring safety procedures are followed. Trainees receive hands-on training to develop technical skills and gain experience in the demanding environment of offshore or onshore oil extraction. This position is a starting point for a career in the oil and gas industry, providing opportunities for advancement as skills and experience grow.

What are some common challenges faced by trainee oil rig workers during their initial months on the job?

Trainee oil rig workers often face challenges such as adapting to physically demanding work, long shifts, and extended periods away from home, sometimes working offshore for weeks at a time. Adjusting to the rigorous safety protocols and learning to operate specialized equipment can also be demanding. Teamwork is crucial, and new trainees must quickly learn to communicate and collaborate effectively with experienced crew members. Overcoming these challenges requires resilience, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to continuous learning.
More about Trainee Oil Rig jobs
What cities are hiring for Trainee Oil Rig jobs? Cities with the most Trainee Oil Rig job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Oil Rig jobs? The most popular types of Oil Rig jobs are:
What states have the most Trainee Oil Rig jobs? States with the most job openings for Trainee Oil Rig jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Trainee Oil Rig jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Trainee Oil Rig jobs are:
Trainee Oil Rig jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trainee Oil Rig job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,530 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Maxi Rig / Large Drill Rig Operator (Horizontal Directional Drilling)

InterCon Construction, Inc.

Madison, WI • On-site

$24.50 - $30.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

POSITION OVERVIEW
The HDD Operator is responsible for controlling the direction of an HDD rig utilizing tools and configurations designed to steer the drill head.
ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Implement all directional drilling plans and procedures according to company plan and oversee all drilling operations of rig site and ensure compliance to all drilling objectives.
  • Manage all well bore path and perform survey to compute and monitor all rate of penetration and maintain an efficient list of all directional tools and perform survey on all equipment.
  • Provide assistance and training to all drilling trainees and manage all marketing and sales activities for various company products and supervise efficient working of all processes.
  • Execute all survey information for processes and ensure all objectives compatibility with various results.
  • Administer all directional operations and analyze performance of all drilling procedures and assist all client representatives to resolve all issues and monitor job progress and maintain records of all data and prepare required documentation.
  • Maintain and ensure efficiency in maintenance of all company assets and locations and ensure adequacy of all supplies and equipment for website and prepare records for all equipment present on rig in coordination with client representatives.
  • Ensure safety in work areas at all times according to required standards and provide required training to all trainees and assess performance and administer all drilling rig operations.
  • Collaborate with various departments to manage work flows for all rig projects and ensure efficient working of same and prepare schedules for all test activities on drilling rig.
  • Prepare rig maintenance strategies and perform regular inspection on all drilling requirements and assist to purchase all equipment to ensure appropriate maintenance.
  • Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS
  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Previous experience with HDD operations, specifically running large drills.
  • Knowledge of different drilling contaminants, additives, and mud treatment
  • Possession of a valid driver's license with a good, clean driving record. CDL preferred.
  • Knowledge of methods, materials, and equipment used in the construction and maintenance of underground oil/gas transmission systems.
  • Fundamental understanding of safety regulations, OSHA regulations, first aid and methods of applying resuscitation.
  • Knowledge of local and state regulations, rules, specifications, and operating practices.
  • Ability to read and interpret plans and written instructions.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently as well as in a team-oriented environment.
  • Consistent travel required throughout United States.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT
Working outdoors in various weather conditions that are not deemed unworkable (i.e. negative degree weather, etc.).
InterCon Construction is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment on account of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, mental or physical disability, veteran status, or any other category protected by law.
Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

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