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Urgently Hiring Oil Rig Roughneck Jobs in California

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RigCLOUD Technician I - California

Bakersfield, CA

$20.50 - $28/hr

This applies to all terms and conditions of employment including recruiting, hiring, placement ... Experience with oilfield drilling or service rigs is an asset. * PHYSICAL AND WORK ENVIORNMENT:

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Urgently Hiring Oil Rig Roughneck information

What are common challenges faced by oil rig roughnecks, and how can they be managed?

Oil rig roughnecks often encounter physically demanding work, long shifts, and exposure to harsh weather conditions. Safety is a top priority, as the role involves handling heavy machinery and working in potentially hazardous environments. Effective teamwork and clear communication are essential to maintain safety and efficiency during operations. Adhering strictly to safety protocols, staying physically fit, and being proactive in reporting any hazards can help manage these challenges and ensure a safe, productive work experience.

How easy is it to get hired at an oil rig?

Getting hired as a roughneck on an oil rig can be competitive and often requires relevant experience, physical fitness, and safety certifications such as OSHA training. Employers typically look for candidates willing to work long shifts in challenging environments, with some positions requiring prior oilfield experience or specialized skills. The hiring process may involve physical exams, safety training, and background checks.

What is an oil rig roughneck?

Oil rig roughnecks are entry-level workers on drilling rigs who perform physically demanding tasks to support drilling operations. Their duties typically include handling drill pipes, cleaning and maintaining equipment, and assisting more experienced crew members. Roughnecks work long hours in challenging environments, both onshore and offshore, and must follow strict safety procedures. This role is crucial to ensuring the smooth and safe operation of oil and gas drilling projects.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an oil rig roughneck?

To thrive as an Oil Rig Roughneck, you need physical stamina, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often paired with on-the-job training. Familiarity with drilling equipment, safety protocols, and personal protective gear is essential, and certifications like H2S safety or first aid are commonly required. Teamwork, strong communication, and the ability to work under pressure are vital soft skills for this demanding environment. These abilities ensure safe, efficient operations and help prevent accidents in the challenging conditions typical of oil rigs.

What is the difference between Urgently Hiring Oil Rig Roughneck vs Drilling Crew Member?

AspectOil Rig RoughneckDrilling Crew Member
CertificationsOSHA safety training, Basic offshore safetyOSHA safety training, Basic offshore safety
Work EnvironmentOffshore oil rigs, physically demandingOffshore oil rigs, physically demanding
Job ResponsibilitiesHandling drilling equipment, assisting in drilling operationsSupporting drilling activities, equipment handling

Both roles work in offshore environments and require safety certifications. The Roughneck typically has more hands-on responsibilities with drilling equipment, while the Drilling Crew Member supports various operational tasks. They are often used interchangeably but may differ slightly in specific duties.

How much do oil rig roughnecks make?

Oil rig roughnecks typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, with experienced workers and those working offshore or in high-demand areas earning higher wages. Overtime, hazard pay, and certifications can increase total compensation, and the job often involves long shifts in challenging environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Oil Rig Roughneck jobs in California? The most popular types of Oil Rig Roughneck jobs in California are:
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What job categories do people searching Urgently Hiring Oil Rig Roughneck jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Urgently Hiring Oil Rig Roughneck jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Urgently Hiring Oil Rig Roughneck jobs? Cities in California with the most Urgently Hiring Oil Rig Roughneck job openings:
Urgently Hiring Oil Rig Roughneck jobs near you
Infographic showing various Urgently Hiring Oil Rig Roughneck job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

USC - WE ARE HIRING! Drilling | California Region | Driller, Assistant Driller, Derrickhand, Moto...

ensignenergy

Bakersfield, CA

$37.80/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

USC – WE ARE HIRING! Drilling | California Region | Driller, Assistant Driller, Derrickhand, Motorhand, and Floorhand

Job Summary

The Drilling Team (USC) Driller, Assistant Driller, Derrickhand, Motorhand, and Floorhand performs the duties of general manual labor on the rig and supports and assists other members of the drilling crew during all rig operations. 

  • Drilling – Floorhand (USC) Bakersfield, California $27.00 an hour
  • Drilling – Motorhand (USC) Bakersfield, California $28.08 an hour
  • Drilling – Derrickhand (USC) Bakersfield, California $31.86 an hour
  • Drilling – Assistant Driller (USC) Bakersfield, California $32.94 an hour
  • Drilling - Driller (USC) Bakersfield, California $37.80 an hour

 Specific Responsibilities and Accountabilities

  • Works in a safe, healthy, and environmentally protective manner
  • Operates tongs, picks up/lays down pipe and latches tubing in elevators
  • Manages tools on the work floor
  • Operates the mud pump
  • Nipples up/down BOP
  • Tallys the stands (pipe)
  • Assists in daily maintenance and housekeeping
  • Reports and corrects any unsafe work practices and safety hazards
  • Participates in all safety programs, processes and requirements
  • Attends Operations Training up to two times per year and up to five days per training at designated locations
  • Performs other duties as directed by management

Technical Competencies

  • Understands and is capable of reading all safety / training requirements and materials
  • Develops an understanding of all major rig components and the necessary servicing

Behavioral Competencies

  • Works in a manner that insures personal safety and the safety of fellow crewmembers
  • Maintains a professional, effective, and polite relationship with other Ensign employees and suppliers
  • Strives continuously to develop a greater knowledge of the total operations, including the duties and responsibilities of each position
  • Works well as a team player and demonstrates willingness to share knowledge to advance knowledge and skills of others
  • Respects chain of command and follows thru on instructions

Education and Experience

  • Prior experience in oil field, heavy industry or construction is beneficial
  • High School diploma or GED is preferred

Qualifications

  • The employee must:
    • Be at least 18 years of age
    • Pass a post-offer physical examination, fitness testing, safety aptitude test, drug tests & background check
    • Provide proof of and maintain proper legal authorization to work in the United States
    • Arrange for reliable transportation to and from work and training locations
    • Speak and read English well enough  to understand verbal and written safety postings, alerts and announcements, communicate with co-workers and be able to participate in job safety analysis meetings

Other Accountabilities

  • Business Ethics – Understands fully Ensign’s ethics policy and its application in all business dealings including contractual agreements and contract negotiations
  • Business Policies - Understands and agrees to follow all of Ensign’s Policy and Directives and procedures as set forth in the Ensign Company Policy and Basic Directives Handbook for Employees
  • Certifications – Maintains technical and safety certifications required by company or government agencies; remains current on all OSHA, EUSD and other required training
  • Drug-free workplace - Conforms to a drug-free workplace, not be under the influence of mind-altering prescription or non-prescription drugs, including alcohol and other drugs of abuse.

Occupational Health and Safety – Understands fully the Ensign Health and Safety policy and self-responsibility for own health and safety at work; Demonstrates responsibility to avoid adversely affecting the health and safety of others through any act or omission

  • Uses the correct protective clothing and equipment as provided by Ensign and guards against misuse or damage to such equipment
  • Reports any hazardous situations arising in the workplace that cannot be self-corrected, or injury incurred during the course of work, no matter how minor
  • Avoids injury resulting from manual handling tasks, by use of risk assessment, correct mechanical handling equipment and correct manual handling techniques

 Ensign United States Drilling Inc. is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer.  Ensign provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.  Ensign takes affirmative action to employ, advance in employment and otherwise treat qualified individuals without discrimination as required by law.

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