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Trainee Oil Rig Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Crew Worker

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

One-year prior work in an oilfield services environment or completion of CJWS Trainee program ... Basic knowledge of Rig Service Procedures and Processes e.g. RU/RD, POOH Rods/Tubing, RIH Rod ...

Crew Worker

Bakersfield, CA

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

One-year prior work in an oilfield services environment or completion of CJWS Trainee program ... Basic knowledge of Rig Service Procedures and Processes e.g. RU/RD, POOH Rods/Tubing, RIH Rod ...

Crew Worker-Ventura, CA

Ventura, CA · On-site

$12.75 - $16.75/hr

Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and ... One-year prior work in an oilfield services environment or with/around heavy industrial machinery ...

Crew Worker

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

One-year prior work in an oilfield services environment or completion of CJWS Trainee program ... Basic knowledge of Rig Service Procedures and Processes e.g. RU/RD, POOH Rods/Tubing, RIH Rod ...

Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and ... One-year prior work in an oilfield services environment or with/around heavy industrial machinery ...

Crew Worker-Ventura, CA

Ventura, CA

$12.75 - $16.75/hr

Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and ... One-year prior work in an oilfield services environment or with/around heavy industrial machinery ...

Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and ... One-year prior work in an oilfield services environment or with/around heavy industrial machinery ...

Trainee Oil Rig information

See California salary details

$25.2K

$43K

$62.7K

How much do trainee oil rig jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee oil rig in California is $42,960.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,600.00 and $50,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the lowest paid job on the oil rig?

On an oil rig, the lowest paid jobs are typically entry-level positions such as roustabouts or general laborers, who perform basic maintenance and cleaning tasks. These roles usually require minimal experience and pay less than specialized roles like drillers or engineers.

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 Worker, 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.

Is it hard to get hired at an oil rig?

Getting hired as a trainee on an oil rig can be competitive due to the physically demanding environment and the need for relevant certifications such as safety training and basic technical skills. Employers often look for candidates with a strong work ethic, willingness to learn, and the ability to work in challenging conditions, but entry-level positions are available for those meeting minimum requirements.

Can you intern on an oil rig?

Yes, trainee oil rig positions are available for interns, often requiring relevant education or technical skills. Internships typically involve safety training, understanding drilling operations, and may require certifications such as H2S or basic safety training. These programs provide hands-on experience in the offshore environment and can lead to full-time employment opportunities.

What are trainee oil rig workers?

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 is an entry-level job on an offshore oil rig?

An entry-level job on an offshore oil rig is typically a roustabout or roughneck position, which involves general labor tasks such as cleaning, maintenance, and assisting skilled workers. These roles often require basic safety training and certifications like Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET).

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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Oil Rig jobs in California? The most popular types of Oil Rig jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Trainee Oil Rig jobs? Cities in California with the most Trainee Oil Rig job openings:
Infographic showing various Trainee Oil Rig job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,960 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Key Accountabilities
  • Operates/uses rod wrenches, rod/tubing tongs, rod/tubing elevators, hand tools, powered rig tools, and other related equipment.
  • Assists in the rigging up/down of the well service unit as directed, by lifting, positioning, fastening derrick guy-wires; operating hydraulic jacks, pads/boards; pipe or tubing racks, power tools, handrails, etc.; and installing/removing emergency equipment such as derrick egress devices, SCBAs, fire extinguishers, and H2S monitors.
  • Lifts, removes, installs, and operates wellhead, pumping units matting boards, tubing, rods, casing, rod strippers, polish rods, JU stripper heads, and other production equipment as required to perform the contracted services.
  • Assists in the installation of blow-out preventers and equipment.
  • Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and safe work procedures.
  • Complies with all the Company's Safety and Environmental policies, practices, and programs. Takes corrective action within training limitations. Escalates as necessary.
  • Conducts route planning.
  • Maintains and organizes tools and equipment.
  • Conducts safety observations.
  • Develops and reviews Job Safety Plans (JSP).
  • Completes equipment inspections and audits.
  • Meets and greets all visitors and personnel on location to identify and communicate hazards.
  • May be required to drive a company, light or DOT-regulated commercial vehicle.
  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Education, Certificates, Licenses
  • High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Valid driver’s license (C, CDL A or B) with record that qualifies individual to be an approved company driver issued by the state of residence
Experience
  • One-year prior work in an oilfield services environment or completion of CJWS Trainee program.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Critical:
  • Ability to wear personal protective equipment and/or safety equipment including safety glasses, face shields, goggles, earmuffs/plugs, steel toe boots, hard hat, full body harness with applicable fall protection devices, SCBA (Self Contained Breathing Apparatus), H2S detectors, slicker or TYVEK suits and gloves.
  • Ability to work at heights up to or greater than 50 feet.
  • Able to perform tasks consistent with the company’s Safe Operating Procedures, to provide the maximum protection for all workers at the work site, the environment, and the equipment; and complete the tasks efficiently.
Required:
  • Knowledge and ability to operate Rig Service Tools such as Power Tongs, BOP, and Wrenches.
  • Basic knowledge of Sand line procedure and process.
  • Basic knowledge of Rig Service Procedures and Processes e.g. RU/RD, POOH Rods/Tubing, RIH Rod/Tubing.
  • Demonstrated dependability i.e. reporting for work at the prescribed location and on time.
  • Ability to work beyond the traditional 8-hour work day; available to work Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays, to meet operational needs.
  • Ability to participate in and contribute to the collaborative resolution of challenges and issues within a team setting.
Desired:
  • Motor Vehicle Record qualifies an individual to be an approved company driver.
Work Environment
  • Heavy Work- Exerting 50 to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 25 to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or 10 to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical Demand requirements are in excess of those for Medium Work.
  • Exposed to outdoor elements such as extreme heat or cold, heavy winds, rain, or snow.
  • Exposed to loud noise level elements.
  • Required to drive to and access job sites, in light of day as well as in darkness, to perform work assignments. Some job site locations may be remote from the office requiring long drives to locations isolated from interaction with others and towns.
  • Required to balance, bend, squat, crouch, climb, reach, grasp, stoop, kneel, push/pull and lift objects, and use apparatus to push/pull and lift heavy objects weighing 50 lbs or more.
  • Subject to exposure to hazards such as but not limited to slippery or uneven surfaces; environmental/industry hazards such as chemicals, high-decibel noise from production equipment, fumes, or poor ventilation; proximity to moving objects and vehicles; potentially combustible components; hazardous off- road conditions such as dust, ice, and snow.
  • May be requested to work long hours to complete job assignments.
  • May work a rotating schedule, shift, and/or be on call.
  • Follow all company safety policies and protocols.
  • Required to perform active, physical tasks including but not limited to operating equipment and/or machinery and making adjustments and repairs.
  • Required to have visual acuity to work with parts, equipment, apparatus, etc.
  • Required to possess audible acuity to hear alarms in the event of emergency. field locations.

This job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties nor account for all abilities required to perform the job. It is a general description of the nature of the position.
The pay range for this position in California is between $27.00 per hour and $27.50 per hour. Please note that the hourly rate information is a general guideline, and that the hourly rate will vary depending on your location. C&J Well Services, LLC (“CJWS”) will consider factors such as (but not limited to) scope of responsibilities of the position, candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer. excellent benefits including full health benefits, 401(k) with company match and immediate vesting, and generous paid time off.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
C&J Well Services, LLC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
LINK to Equal Employment Opportunity Posters:
https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/ofccpost.htm
Reasonable Accommodation Notice
If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact Human Resources at 661-589-5220 or CJWSHR@cjws.com.
Pay Transparency Notice
C&J Well Services, LLC (“CJWS”) will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against an applicant or employee because they have inquired about or discussed compensation.
Notice to Third Party Agencies
Please note that C&J Well Services, LLC (“CJWS”) does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the absence of a signed Recruitment Agreement, CJWS will not consider or agree to payment of any referral compensation or recruiter fee. In the event a recruiter or agency submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed agreement, CJWS explicitly reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers, will not be reviewed or considered in part of the application process.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.