upper level job

How much does a Rig Hand I make in the United States?

As of September 01, 2026, the average salary for a Rig Hand I in the United States is $50,560 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $24.

However, a Rig Hand I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $62,271
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $44,900 to $56,690
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $39,747

Key Factors That Influence Rig Hand I Salaries

A Rig Hand I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.

How Experience Level Affects Rig Hand Salaries?

Experience is a primary driver of a Rig Hand I's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:

  • Rig Hand I (0-1 years): $50,555
  • Drill Operator II (1-3 years): $56,378
  • Drill Operator III (3-5 years): $70,035
  • Drilling Operations Team Lead (5+ years): $81,706
  • Drilling Rig Supervisor (5+ years): $94,084
Job Role Years of Experience Average Salary
Rig Hand I0-1 years$50,555
Drill Operator II1-3 years$56,378
Drill Operator III3-5 years$70,035
Drilling Operations Team Lead5+ years$81,706
Drilling Rig Supervisor5+ years$94,084

Top Paying Cities for Rig Hand Is

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • San Jose: $63,770
  • San Francisco: $63,070
  • Oakland: $61,740

Rig Hand I Salary by Company Size: Startups vs. Enterprise

Rig Hand I salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $58,744. While startup companies pay approximate $49,755.

Rig Hand I Salary by Company Size

Company Size Employees Average Salary
Startup 1~50 $49,755
Growth Stage 51~500 $52,601
Established 501~5000 $56,750
Enterprise 5000+ $58,744

Rig Hand I Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how a Rig Hand I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.

Last Updated on September 01, 2026
$44,900
Average $50,560/year
$56,690
$3,742
Average $4,213/month
$4,724
$863
Average $972/week
$1,090
$22
Average $24/hour
$27
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $56,690 $4,724 $1,090 $27
Average $50,560 $4,213 $972 $24
25th Percentile $44,900 $3,742 $863 $22

Rig Hand I Salary Growth & Career Path

Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Rig Hand I, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.

Rig Hand I Salary Growth and Career Path
Next Step Role Estimate Salary Projected Raise
Drilling Foreman $131,400 160%
Derrickhand $78,200 55%
Drill Operator II $56,400 12%

Most common benefits for Rig Hand I

  • Social Security
  • 401 (k)
  • Disability
  • Healthcare
  • Pension
  • Time Off (days)

Common company salaries for Rig Hand I

Here are companies hiring for Rig Hand I and their salaries, click below for more details.

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FAQ about Rig Hand I

1. How much do oil rig workers make USA?

Oil rig workers in the USA typically earn between $41,450 and $55,220 annually. Entry-level positions start around $41,450, while mid-level roles average about $47,930. More experienced workers can earn up to $55,220, with senior positions potentially earning significantly more. Experience and role significantly influence salary levels in this industry.

2. How much does a deck hand earn in USA?

In the USA, a Rig Hand typically earns between $41,450 and $55,220 annually. Starting salaries are around $41,450, while experienced Rig Hands can earn up to $55,220. This reflects a range of monthly earnings from approximately $3,454 to $4,602, depending on experience and location.

3. Who is the boss on a oil rig?

The toolpusher is the senior manager on an oil rig, overseeing personnel, parts, and performance. The driller, who reports to the toolpusher, manages the active drilling phase, trips, and the safety of the floor hands. Salaries for rig hands range from $41,450 to $55,220, with a mid-salary of $47,930.

4. How do you become a rig hand?

To become a rig hand, you typically need a high school diploma and the physical stamina for demanding work. Most individuals enter the field without prior experience, as on-the-job training is provided. Salaries for rig hands range from a minimum of $41,450 to a mid-level of $47,930, with the potential to earn up to $55,220 annually.

5. What is the highest paying job in the world?

While CEO positions are often considered the highest paying jobs globally, specific roles like Rig Hand also offer competitive salaries. For instance, a Rig Hand can expect a minimum salary of $41,450, a mid-range salary of $47,930, and a maximum salary of $55,220, reflecting the importance of skilled labor in the energy sector.

6. How much do rig hands make?

Rig hands typically earn between $41,450 and $55,220 annually, with a median salary of around $47,930. While some cities like San Francisco and San Jose offer higher salaries, the general pay range for rig hands reflects the industry standards.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.

We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)

With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.

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