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Water Rig Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Valaris

Assistant Driller

Houston, TX · On-site

$22 - $29.75/hr

Our diverse fleet of ultra-deepwater drillships, versatile semisubmersibles and modern shallow-water jackups is capable of meeting a wide spectrum of customers' well program requirements. Our rig ...

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All JobsWater Rig JobsWater Rig Jobs in Houston, TX

Water Rig information

See Houston, TX salary details

$5

$44

$79

How much do water rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for water rig in Houston, TX is $44.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.27 and $45.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Water Rig vs Drilling Rig?

AspectWater RigDrilling Rig
Primary UseDrills water wells and boreholesDrills for oil, gas, or mineral extraction
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, rural areas, water resource projectsOil fields, mineral exploration sites
CredentialsWater well drilling licenses, safety certificationsOil & gas drilling certifications, safety training
Industry UsageWater resource management, environmental projectsEnergy, mining, and resource extraction industries

Water rigs are specialized for drilling water wells and boreholes, focusing on water resource projects. Drilling rigs have a broader application, including oil and gas extraction. While both require safety certifications, water rigs typically need water well drilling licenses, whereas drilling rigs for oil and gas require specific industry certifications. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right equipment and expertise for your project.

How much do water oil rig workers make?

Water rig workers on oil rigs typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, role, and location. Skilled positions such as roustabouts, roughnecks, and drillers often have higher pay, and workers may receive additional compensation for overtime and hazardous conditions.

How to get a job on a water oil rig?

To get a job on a water oil rig, candidates typically need relevant technical skills, such as welding, drilling, or maintenance, and often require certifications like H2S, BOSIET, or offshore safety training. Prior experience in the oil and gas industry and physical fitness are also important, and jobs are usually obtained through industry-specific recruitment agencies or direct company applications.

Is it hard to get hired on an offshore oil rig?

Getting hired as a water rig worker on an offshore oil rig can be competitive and typically requires relevant experience, certifications such as H2S and BOSIET, and physical fitness. Employers often look for candidates with technical skills, safety training, and the ability to work long shifts in challenging environments.

Can you make 200k in the oil field?

Water rig operators in the oil field can potentially earn $200,000 or more annually with experience, overtime, and specialized skills. High-paying roles often require certifications, physical stamina, and working long shifts in challenging environments.
What are popular job titles related to Water Rig jobs in Houston, TX? For Water Rig jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Rig jobs in Houston, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Water Rig jobs in Houston, TX are:
What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Water Rig jobs? Cities near Houston, TX with the most Water Rig job openings:
Water Rig jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Rig job openings in Houston, TX as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 97% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,521 per year, or $44.5 per hour.
Cone Penetrometer (CPT) Rig Operator

Cone Penetrometer (CPT) Rig Operator

Thompson Engineering

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Summary

Thompson Engineering is looking for a highly motivated and skilled Cone Penetrometer (CPT) Rig Operator to join our dynamic geotechnical drilling team. We're seeking an experienced operator to safely and efficiently run our CPT rigs, collecting high-quality geotechnical data across diverse subsurface conditions. This role demands a strong grasp of CPT principles, mechanical expertise, meticulous attention to detail, and an unwavering commitment to safety.

Key Responsibilities

As a CPT Rig Operator, you will:

  • Rig Operations: Safely mobilize, set up, operate, and demobilize CPT rigs at various project sites.
  • Data Acquisition: Conduct CPT soundings per project specifications and industry standards, ensuring precise collection of tip resistance (qc), sleeve friction (fs), and pore water pressure (u2) data.
  • Equipment Maintenance: Perform routine maintenance, proactive troubleshooting, and minor repairs to CPT rigs and associated equipment (e.g., cones, rods, hydraulic systems).
  • Calibration: Assist with or execute regular calibration checks of CPT cones and data acquisition systems to guarantee data accuracy.
  • Safety Compliance: Strictly adhere to all company safety policies, procedures, and OSHA regulations. Conduct daily safety checks, actively participate in tailgate safety meetings, and promptly report any hazards or incidents.
  • Documentation: Accurately complete daily field logs, sounding reports, maintenance records, and all other required documentation.
  • Site Management: Maintain a clean, organized, and environmentally compliant work area.
  • Collaboration: Work effectively with project managers, geotechnical engineers, field technicians, and other team members to achieve project goals.
  • Troubleshooting: Identify and resolve operational issues or data anomalies during CPT sounding.
  • Mobility: Be prepared for frequent travel to various job sites, including remote locations and challenging terrains, potentially involving extended periods away from home.

Qualifications

Education

  • Required: High School Diploma or GED.
  • Preferred: Technical schooling or vocational training in heavy equipment operation, mechanics, or a related field.
  • A Plus: Degree in Geology or a related field with a concentration in soils.

Experience

  • Required: Minimum of 2-3 years of experience operating heavy equipment, preferably within the geotechnical, drilling, or construction industry.
  • Highly Preferred: Prior experience specifically operating CPT rigs.
  • A Plus: Familiarity with various CPT cone types (e.g., standard, piezocone, seismic cone).

Technical Skills

  • Proficient in reading and interpreting project plans, specifications, and safety guidelines.
  • Basic mechanical aptitude for troubleshooting and maintenance of equipment.
  • Familiarity with data logging software and basic computer skills for data transfer.

Certifications/Licenses

  • Required: Valid Driver's License with a clean driving record.
  • Preferred/Required (depending on rig size): CDL (Class A or B).
  • Highly Desirable: OSHA 10-hour or 30-hour Construction Safety certification.
  • A Plus: First Aid/CPR certification.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to lift and carry heavy objects (up to 50 lbs.) regularly.
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, and kneel for extended periods.
  • Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, etc.).
  • Good vision and hearing, with or without correction, to safely and effectively operate equipment.

Soft Skills

  • Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Strong problem-solving abilities.
  • Reliable, punctual, and highly self-motivated.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.
  • Unwavering commitment to safety.

Benefits

  • Competitive salary
  • Health
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid Time Off
  • Training and development opportunities.

Apply