As of July 01, 2026, the average salary for a Rig Operations Technician I in the United States is $50,590 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $24.
However, a Rig Operations Technician I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Rig Operations Technician 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.
Experience is a primary driver of a Rig Operations Technician 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:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Rig Operations Technician I | 0-1 years | $50,559 |
| Drill Operator II | 1-3 years | $56,373 |
| Drill Operator III | 3-5 years | $70,034 |
| Drilling Operations Team Lead | 5+ years | $81,710 |
| Drilling Rig Supervisor | 5+ years | $94,084 |
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 Operations Technician Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Rig Operations Technician I salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $58,873. While startup companies pay approximate $49,834.
| Company Size | Employees | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | 1~50 | $49,834 |
| Growth Stage | 51~500 | $52,690 |
| Established | 501~5000 | $56,870 |
| Enterprise | 5000+ | $58,873 |
Understanding how a Rig Operations Technician 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 July 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Rig Operations Technician 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.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Drilling Foreman | $131,300 | 160% |
| Derrickhand | $75,000 | 48% |
| Drill Operator II | $56,400 | 11% |
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The salary for a Rig Operations Technician in the USA ranges from $41,490 to $55,290 per year. The average salary is approximately $47,990 annually. Entry-level positions typically start at $41,490, while experienced technicians can earn up to $55,290 per year.
Theatre technicians usually work around 40 hours a week, typically from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. during preproduction. Their salaries range from $41,490 to $55,290, with a mid-salary of $47,990, reflecting their essential role in bringing a production's vision to life through technical expertise.
The average salary for a Rig Operations Technician ranges from $41,490 to $55,290, with a mid-point salary of $47,990. While some states like California offer competitive salaries around $48,704, the overall pay can vary significantly based on location and experience.
As of January 2025, Rig Operations Technicians in Texas earn between $41,490 and $55,290 annually. The average salary is approximately $47,990. While some positions may pay less, the majority fall within this range, reflecting the demand and skill level required for the role.
To become an operations technician, you typically need a technical degree, professional certification, or relevant experience in equipment maintenance. The salary for this role ranges from $41,490 to $55,290, with a median salary of $47,990, reflecting the demand and expertise required in the field.
Pay for Rig Operations Technicians varies based on experience and skill level. Typically, salaries range from $41,490 to $55,290, with a mid-range salary of $47,990. While some highly experienced technicians may earn more, reaching $100k is uncommon in this field. Benefits often include traditional health insurance.
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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