Land Rig Jobs - What Are They and How to Get One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

A land rig is a drilling rig used to drill holes onshore rather than offshore and requires a crew to function. The size and function of the rig determine the positions available, but typically there are six people in the crew: rig manager, derrickhand, leasehand, motorhand, driller, and floorhand. Your duties and responsibilities in any of these careers involve cleaning, maintaining, and operating the rig. Drills operate 24 hours a day, so multiple crew members rotate to fill 12-hour shifts. There are additional land rig positions, including truck drivers to transfer material to various locations, managers to oversee production, and oil and gas support staff.

To get a land rig job, you need a high school diploma, and you must be in excellent physical shape. You need first aid and CPR certification, and depending on the materials you work with, you may need HAZMAT training as well. Some employers assist with these certifications after hiring and provide training on the transportation of dangerous goods, drilling techniques, and other essential skills. Additional qualifications include familiarity with the appropriate work gear and equipment, the ability to get to and from the rig, and a driver's license.