How much does an oil drill operator make?

They watch pressure gauges and move levers to control the drill, while counting pipe sections to track the hole’s depth. They connect pipes with the crew, record how far they drilled, and maintain the equipment.

Did you know? Some U.S. crews on offshore rigs or in remote areas may work long shifts seven days a week and spend weeks away from home.

In the U.S., many start as roustabouts, which often need no experience, then learn on the job and move through helper and derrick-operator roles toward driller. Some jobs require a commercial driver’s license or safety training that follows OSHA guidelines.

School needed: High school plus some training

Good for people who like building and doing and keeping things organized

Why does pay differ?

In the U.S., experience and useful licenses or safety training can raise pay, and wages also differ by employer, duties, and location. Hours matter too: offshore or remote crews may work long shifts for weeks at a time.