As of May 01, 2026, the average salary for a Rig Hand II in the United States is $56,390 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $27.
However, a Rig Hand II's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Rig Hand II'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.
Experience is a primary driver of a Rig Hand II'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:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Drill Operator I | 0-1 years | $50,563 |
| Rig Hand II | 1-3 years | $56,368 |
| Drill Operator III | 3-5 years | $70,033 |
| Drilling Operations Team Lead | 5+ years | $81,716 |
| Drilling Rig Supervisor | 5+ years | $94,082 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Rig Hand IIs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Communicates Effectively | 4.52% |
| First Aid | 4.09% |
| Continuous Improvement | 1.94% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Collaboration
|
$68,796 |
22%
|
|
Products and Services
|
$65,976 |
17%
|
|
Networking
|
$64,849 |
15%
|
|
Service Quality
|
$64,285 |
14%
|
|
Safety Policies and Procedures
|
$62,593 |
11%
|
|
Integrity
|
$62,029 |
10%
|
Understanding how a Rig Hand II'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 May 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Rig Hand II, 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.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Drilling Foreman | $131,200 | 133% |
| Derrickhand | $75,000 | 33% |
| Drill Operator III | $70,100 | 24% |
Salaries for a Rig Hand II can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $92,182 in 2023 to around $91,427 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Rig Hand II salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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|
| 2023 | $92,182 |
| 2024 | $92,192 |
| 2025 | $91,427 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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Compensation PlanningHere are companies hiring for Rig Hand II and their salaries, click below for more details.
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The highest-paid roles on an oil rig typically include positions like Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO), with average salaries significantly higher than those of rig hands. For rig hands, the salary ranges from a minimum of $47,290 to a mid-range of $56,590, reaching up to a maximum of $68,790, depending on experience and location.
Oil rig workers typically earn between $47,290 and $68,790, depending on their experience and role. Entry-level positions start around $47,290, while mid-level roles can reach up to $68,790. While some senior positions may exceed $100,000, most workers do not make that amount. Experience and specific job roles significantly influence salary levels.
As of now, the salary for a Rig Hand in the United States ranges from $47,290 to $68,790 annually, with a median salary of $56,590. This translates to approximately $22.73 to $33.06 per hour, or about $1,000 to $1,400 per week. The monthly earnings can range from $4,024 to $5,732.
Oil rig workers in the US earn between $47,290 and $68,790 annually, with a median salary of $56,590. This translates to an average hourly wage of approximately $26.57. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and specific job responsibilities within the oil rig industry.
High Salaries One of the main perks of working on an offshore oil rig is the high earning potential. Rig Hands can earn between $47,290 and $68,790 annually, with a median salary of $56,590. The demanding nature of the job, combined with the skills required, contributes to these generous salaries, making it an attractive career choice for many.
A high rigger's job involves manipulating rigging lines, hoists, and pulling gear to move or support heavy materials, including equipment and theatrical sets. They are responsible for aligning, leveling, and anchoring machinery. Salaries for rig hands range from $47,290 to $68,790, with a mid-range salary of $56,590, reflecting the skill and responsibility involved in the role.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
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