As of May 01, 2026, the average salary for a Rig Hand III in the United States is $70,040 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $34.
However, a Rig Hand III's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Rig Hand III'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 III'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 |
| Drill Operator II | 1-3 years | $56,368 |
| Rig Hand 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 IIIs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Understanding how a Rig Hand III'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 III, 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 | 87% |
| Drilling Operations Team Lead | $81,800 | 17% |
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Oil rig workers, specifically Rig Hands, typically earn between $54,750 and $76,260 annually, with a mid-salary of $64,650. While some experienced workers may approach or exceed $100,000, the average salary for this position generally falls below that threshold.
The lowest level of certified Rig Hand typically earns a minimum salary of $54,750. This position is essential in the oil and gas industry, where Rig Hands assist in various tasks on drilling rigs. The average salary for this role is around $64,650, with experienced individuals earning up to $76,260.
How much does a Deckhand earn in the USA? The salary for a Deckhand typically ranges from $54,750 to $76,260 annually, with a median salary of around $64,650. This translates to an hourly wage of approximately $26.30 to $36.63, depending on experience and location.
Oil rigs offer competitive salaries, with Rig Hands earning between $54,750 and $76,260 annually. This high pay reflects the challenging working conditions and inherent risks of the job. Workers typically endure demanding schedules, such as 14 days on followed by 21 days off, which further justifies the attractive compensation.
Rigging training typically spans several months to a few years, depending on the program and certification level. Upon completion, rig hands can expect salaries ranging from $54,750 to $76,260, with a median salary of $64,650, reflecting the skills and expertise gained during their training.
Deckhands can earn competitive salaries, with Rig Hands making between $54,750 and $76,260 annually. In cities like Portland, OR, they can earn around $28.36 per hour, translating to approximately $58,900 annually. Other cities like New York, NY, offer $23.21 per hour, which is about $48,300 annually, showcasing varying pay scales across locations.
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.)
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