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Workover Rig Operator Jobs (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 ...

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 ...

Operator - Rig SUMMARY The primary duty of the Rig Operator is to work the controls and equipment ... Perform all required equipment inspections-workover rig, fall arrest system, derrick, hoisting and ...

Operator I - Rig SUMMARY The primary duty of the Rig Operator is to work the controls and equipment ... Perform all required equipment inspections-workover rig, fall arrest system, derrick, hoisting and ...

Operator I - Rig SUMMARY The primary duty of the Rig Operator is to work the controls and equipment ... Perform all required equipment inspections-workover rig, fall arrest system, derrick, hoisting and ...

Operator I - Rig SUMMARY The primary duty of the Rig Operator is to work the controls and equipment ... Perform all required equipment inspections-workover rig, fall arrest system, derrick, hoisting and ...

Operator I - Rig SUMMARY The primary duty of the Rig Operator is to work the controls and equipment ... Perform all required equipment inspections-workover rig, fall arrest system, derrick, hoisting and ...

Operator - Rig SUMMARY The primary duty of the Rig Operator is to work the controls and equipment ... Perform all required equipment inspections-workover rig, fall arrest system, derrick, hoisting and ...

Operator I - Rig SUMMARY The primary duty of the Rig Operator is to work the controls and equipment ... Perform all required equipment inspections-workover rig, fall arrest system, derrick, hoisting and ...

Operator I - Rig SUMMARY The primary duty of the Rig Operator is to work the controls and equipment ... Perform all required equipment inspections-workover rig, fall arrest system, derrick, hoisting and ...

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Workover Rig Operator information

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$7

$15

$25

How much do workover rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for workover rig operator in the United States is $15.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $8.41 and $19.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.
More about Workover Rig Operator jobs
What states have the most Workover Rig Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Workover Rig Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Workover Rig Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Workover Rig Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Workover Rig Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,333 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

$17 - $22.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

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

The Relief Operator position is filled by a person who on an as needed basis fills the position of a Rig Operator on a Workover Rig or Swab Rig. The Relief Operator is responsible for the relief operation of the rig, crew, and equipment and for ensuring customer satisfaction with all services rendered when the Rig Operator is absent from work due to illness, vacations, or other excused absences.

The Relief Operator ensures that all crew members are at the rig and ready to work at their scheduled time and maintains productivity standards for all rig functions. When not performing duties as a Rig Operator, the Relief Operator is working on the crew as a crew member (For example: Floor Hand, Derrick Hand, Truck Driver, or performing other rig duties as assigned).

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

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

In the absence of the Rig Operator, the Relief Operator will perform all duties and responsibilities of the Rig Operator to include:

  • Operating the assigned rig and equipment in accordance with the contractual terms and conditions as requested or designated by the customers.
  • Maintaining regular contact and communication with customers to resolve concerns, issues, and complaints.
  • Ensuring that quality products and services are provided to the customers including maintaining productivity standards for all rig functions, following safety procedures for a safe working environment for all rig employees, and adhering to all applicable governmental regulations for compliance.
  • Ensuring efficient maintenance of assigned rig and equipment.
  • Establishing and maintaining a positive and safe work environment for the assigned rig crew, including training, and coaching the crew on carrying out their assigned duties on the rig.
  • When not substituting for the Rig Operator, the Relief Operator will perform the duties of a Floor Hand or Derrick Hand on a rig every day (See Floor Hand and Derrick Hand job descriptions)
  • Performs other related duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent preferred.
  • Dependable transportation.
  • Previous experience at Floor Hand and Derrick Hand positions.
  • Must have rig operation experience and be able to demonstrate full competency in rigging up/rigging down and well servicing operations.
  • Minimum two or more years’ experience in rig and well servicing operations.
  • Knowledge and experience in oilfield well servicing is required.
  • Must possess CDL B driver’s license with acceptable MVR at minimum.
  • Ability to effectively communicate with people within and outside of the company.
  • Ability to lead or provide guidance to crew members to work safely and efficiently.
  • Multi-tasking and basic problem-solving skills required; organizational skills preferred.
  • Must meet all qualifications defined in Motor Vehicle Policy.
  • Ability to pass physical, lift assessment, audiogram, respiratory, and drug examinations required by state and federal government.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions.

  • Lift up to 50 lbs. frequently and team lift up to 100 lbs. as needed.
  • Stand up to 8 hours, walk up to 4 hours, and sit up to 1 hour during a typical shift.
  • Frequently bend, kneel, reach, push, and pull while performing rig and crew support duties.
  • Climb ladders and rig structures constantly, including ladder heights up to 50 feet.
  • Safely operate and work around workover rigs, swab rigs, hand tools, and related service equipment.
  • Demonstrate grip strength of approximately 80–100 lbs. for tool handling and rig operations.
  • Work outdoors in all weather conditions, including temperature extremes and high-noise environments requiring appropriate PPE and hearing protection.
  • Maintain adequate vision, hearing, respiratory clearance, and physical capability to safely work and communicate in hazardous areas around oil and gas wells.
  • Typically works 12-hour shifts on a 14/7 rotation schedule with approximately 75% travel.