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Workover Rig Operator Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

The Rig Operator, reporting to the assigned Tool Pusher/Field Supervisor, leads a 4-5-person workover rig crew, and is responsible for performing and safely operating well workover components and ...

Daily operation of the workover rig and support equipment * Assist in the mobilization and rigging up and down of the workover rig * Operating of the tongs and slips to connect and dis-connect drill ...

Daily operation of the workover rig and support equipment * Assist in the mobilization and rigging up and down of the workover rig * Operating of the tongs and slips to connect and dis-connect drill ...

This position is responsible for operating and transporting equipment, performing rig-up and rig-down procedures, maintaining tools, and assisting the Wellsite Supervisor to ensure high-quality ...

Workover Rig Operator information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$7

$15

$26

How much do workover rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for workover rig operator in Pennsylvania is $15.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $8.41 and $20.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Workover Rig Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Workover Rig Operator, you need in-depth knowledge of oilfield operations, equipment handling, and safety protocols, usually backed by relevant field experience and high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with rig control systems, hydraulic tools, and compliance with OSHA or similar safety certifications is typically required. Strong teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies are critical to ensure safe, efficient, and productive rig operations in challenging and dynamic environments.

What are the most common challenges faced by Workover Rig Operators in the field?

Workover Rig Operators often encounter challenges such as working in remote or harsh environments, managing unpredictable weather conditions, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols. Coordinating with multidisciplinary teams—such as engineers, safety personnel, and equipment technicians—can also be demanding, especially during high-pressure operations or emergency situations. Staying up-to-date with evolving technology and maintaining equipment reliability are essential for minimizing downtime and ensuring successful well interventions.

What does a Workover Rig Operator do?

A Workover Rig Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining specialized rigs used in the servicing, maintenance, and repair of oil and gas wells. Their duties often include removing and replacing well components, performing well interventions, and ensuring the safe and efficient operation of equipment. Workover Rig Operators work closely with other crew members to restore or enhance well production, troubleshoot issues, and follow strict safety protocols. The role requires technical knowledge, physical stamina, and attention to detail as they often work in challenging environments.

What is the difference between Workover Rig Operator vs Drilling Rig Operator?

AspectWorkover Rig OperatorDrilling Rig Operator
CredentialsOSHA safety training, CDL often requiredOSHA safety training, CDL often required
Work EnvironmentOnshore and offshore workover rigs, maintenance-focusedOnshore and offshore drilling rigs, drilling-focused
Industry UsageOil and gas production, well maintenanceOil and gas exploration, well drilling

Workover Rig Operators and Drilling Rig Operators share similar certifications and work environments, often working on offshore or onshore rigs. However, Workover Rig Operators focus on maintaining and repairing existing wells, while Drilling Rig Operators are involved in the initial drilling process. Both roles are essential in the oil and gas industry, with overlapping skills but distinct responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Workover Rig Operator jobs in Pennsylvania? For Workover Rig Operator jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Workover Rig Operator jobs in Pennsylvania look for? The top searched job categories for Workover Rig Operator jobs in Pennsylvania are:
Infographic showing various Workover Rig Operator job openings in Pennsylvania as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $32,410 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

***This job has preference to qualified local job seekers within 60 miles of Axis Meshoppen, PA facility.

The Rig Operator, reporting to the assigned Tool Pusher/Field Supervisor, leads a 4–5-person workover rig crew, and is responsible for performing and safely operating well workover components and services. The primary responsibilities include and is not limited to preparation of crew members, inspection, maintenance, and operations of assigned workover rig, in accordance with company procedures and customer requirements. Additional functions may be specified by the assigned Tool Pusher or other designated operations management. All duties are expected to be performed safely and effectively to maximize the safety of the entire crew while meeting customer expectations and being a solution to their projects by Axis operating safety and performance standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:

  • Confirms all scheduled shift times that the full crew are prepared for work at the assigned rig.
  • Supports the workover crew and is responsible for performing operating functions, including driving the workover rig as necessary to the job site, with direction from the field supervisor/Tool Pusher, and/or the customer company representative.
  • Inspects the setting up, taking down and transportation of the assigned workover rig.
  • Conducts routine inspection and troubleshooting on all service equipment.
  • Monitors, tests, installs, lifts, and removes equipment using proper job and safety procedures.
  • May train and direct the crew on safety and job procedures.
  • Handles job safety analysis and daily maintenance program for the rig, ensuring the crew understands the programs and procedures.
  • May be requested to work outside of the assigned work schedule to meet customer needs.
  • Depending on project and rig assignment, may be required to perform other functional duties as assigned by Tool Pusher/Field Supervisor

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)

  • High school diploma, GED, or the equivalent.
  • Must have valid state issued driver license with acceptable motor vehicle records (MVR); Class A or B CDL a plus/preferred.
  • Required five (5) years of workover rig experience; production experience a plus; minimum two (2) years Rig Operator experience required and at least two (2) years (prefer 3 years) operational and safety experience as a Derrick Hand and Floor Hand required.
  • Working knowledge of basic service mechanical functions.
  • Ability to lift heavy equipment up to 75 lbs.
  • Ability to access the work environment by use of a ladder at heights of 50 ft. or more.
  • Long periods of standing, squatting, kneeling, reaching or similar activities may be necessary.
  • Able to perform duties with protective equipment, H2S respirator where required; potential hazards include working near or with heavy tools and moving machinery.
  • Must be able to travel as job requires.
  • Work may be performed in all weather conditions.
  • Ability to effectively communicate, both verbally and written; English preferred.
  • Ability to interact with others in a team environment and work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks at once.
  • Basic problem solving and organizational skills.
  • Excellent customer service skills, to provide world class value to Axis customers.
  • Have dependable form of communication – cell phone preferred.
  • Dependable transportation.
  • Ability for qualified clearance on background checks, pre-employment drug and alcohol and job-relevant screens.