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Trainee Oil Rig Jobs in New Mexico (NOW HIRING)

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Trainee Oil Rig information

See New Mexico salary details

$24.7K

$42.2K

$61.5K

How much do trainee oil rig jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee oil rig in New Mexico is $42,184.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,000.00 and $49,400.00 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Oil Rig jobs in New Mexico? The most popular types of Oil Rig jobs in New Mexico are:
What are popular job titles related to Trainee Oil Rig jobs in New Mexico? For Trainee Oil Rig jobs in New Mexico, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Trainee Oil Rig jobs in New Mexico look for? The top searched job categories for Trainee Oil Rig jobs in New Mexico are:
What cities in New Mexico are hiring for Trainee Oil Rig jobs? Cities in New Mexico with the most Trainee Oil Rig job openings:
Trainee Oil Rig jobs near you

Floorhand 1, Hobbs, NM - 2042

Key Energy Services

Hobbs, NM • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
This position is one of a crew of a well service rig responsible for performing services on oil and gas wells. Duties include assisting in rigging up and rigging down, pulling/laying down rods, tubing, casing and other functions specified by customer or well operator. Incumbent follows trainee matrix assignments during training period.
This position has a dotted line reporting line to: Rig Supervisor or equivalent.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Lifts, operates, rigs up/down guy wires, hydraulic jacks, pads/boards and emergency gear which may include SCBA boxes, fire extinguishers and H2S monitors.
  • Lifts, removes, installs and operates well head pump, jacks and other designated by the rig operator or company official.
  • Works on elevated platform handling rods, tubing and other equipment related with well servicing.
  • Lifts, attaches, installs and works with matting boards, tubing, rods, casing and associated well equipment, such as rod strippers, polish rods, etc.
  • Operates tongs, elevators and other associated rig tools and equipment.
  • Receives on the job and other training to gain skills and competencies. Expected to fulfill successful completion of training.
  • Learns company policies and procedures. Reports safety hazards, accidents or maintenance issues to the rig supervisor.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Wears proper safety equipment on the job (when applicable)
  1. Goggles, face shields or safety glasses
  2. Ear plugs/muffs
  3. Steel toed boots.
  4. Hard hats
  5. Safety belts
  6. Anti-fall devices
  7. SCBA (Self-contained Breathing Apparatus)
  8. H2S detectors
  9. Slicker or tyvek chemical suits
  10. Gloves
  11. FR uniforms

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Communicate effectively, verbally and/or in writing.
  • Driver's license preferred.
  • Ability to interact positively with others in the team.
  • Basic problem solving and organizational skills.
  • Excellent customer services skills to provide world class value to customers.
  • Ability to listen and follow specific instructions.
  • Ability to work at heights of 110' if required to assume derrick tasks
  • Ability to work in fast paced environment, handling multiple tasks at the same time.
  • Must pass post-employment drug/alcohol urinalysis.
  • Must pass post-offer "Essential Job Functions Test."
  • Must pass drug and physical test if required by state and federal government.

Education Requirements:
High School Diploma, GED, or the equivalent is preferred.
Key Energy Services (Key) is an equal opportunity employer. Key does not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, disability, national origin, age, genetic information, military status, status as a Vietnam-era or special disabled veteran, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local laws.

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