How Much Does an Oil Field Operator make?

Oil Field Operator made a median salary around $64,125 in March, 2025. The best-paid 25 percent made $82,732 probably that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made around $55,035. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.
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Best-Paying Cities for Oil Field Operator

The metropolitan areas that pay the highest salary in the Oil Field Operator profession are Matamoras , Newtown , Fairless Hills , Langhorne , Washington Crossing .
Matamoras, PA $73,760
Newtown, PA $70,701
Fairless Hills, PA $70,701
Langhorne, PA $70,701
Washington Crossing, PA $70,701

Best-Paying States for Oil Field Operator

The states and districts that pay Oil Field Operator the highest salary are District of Columbia (around $72,458) , California (around $71,807) , New Jersey (around $71,352) , Alaska (around $70,896) , and Massachusetts (around $70,831) .
District of Columbia $72,458
California $71,807
New Jersey $71,352
Alaska $70,896
Massachusetts $70,831

What is the Career Path of Oil Field Operator?

A career path is a sequence of jobs that leads to your short- and long-term career goals. Some follow a linear career path within one field, while others change fields periodically to achieve career or personal goals.

For Oil Field Operator, the first career path typically progresses to Drilling Operations Supervisor.

The second career path typically progresses to Derrickman.

Additionally, the third career path typically starts with a Rig Operator II position , and then progresses to Rig Operator Manager.

Besides, Oil Field Operator can also turn to other related jobs, including Oil Field Production Operator , Oil and Gas Field Supervisor , Oil Operator and Field Operator I .

Frequently Asked Questions for Oil Field Operator

Q: What is the salary range of Oil Field Operator in Pittsburgh, PA?
A: In 2025 , the lowest-paid Oil Field Operator in Pittsburgh, PA earned an average annual salary of $55,035 , while the highest-paid made $82,732.
Q: What is the salary for an Oil Field Operator in California?
A: Oil Field Operator employed in California earned an average salary of $71,807 in 2025.

Average Oil Field Operator Pay vs. Other Jobs

Oil Field Operator earned an average salary of $64,125 in 2025. Other jobs related to Oil Field Operator earned the following average salary in March, 2025. Oil Field Production Operator made $36,381 , Oil and Gas Field Supervisor made $106,248 , Oil Operator and Field Operator I made $45,861 and $65,255 respectively .

Relevant Jobs of Oil Field Operator

Oil Field Production Operator - Average Salary $36,381
An oil field production operator is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of oil and gas production facilities. This includes monitoring and controlling equipment, ensuring that production targets are met, and maintaining the safety and efficiency of the operation. The operator is also responsible for conducting routine maintenance and troubleshooting any issues that may arise during the production process. Additionally, they must adhere to all safety and environmental regulations while working in the field. Strong communication and problem-solving skills are essential for this role, as well as the ability to work in a fast-paced and physically demanding environment.
Oil and Gas Field Supervisor - Average Salary $106,248
Oil and Gas Field Supervisor supervises field staff that maintains and services oil and gas production facilities. Oversees testing and monitoring of wells, pumps, storage facilities and other equipment. Being an Oil and Gas Field Supervisor is responsible for safety of staff and production facilities. Requires a bachelor's degree. Additionally, Oil and Gas Field Supervisor typically reports to a manager or head of a unit/department. The Oil and Gas Field Supervisor supervises a group of primarily para-professional level staffs. May also be a level above a supervisor within high volume administrative/ production environments. Makes day-to-day decisions within or for a group/small department. Has some authority for personnel actions. To be an Oil and Gas Field Supervisor typically requires 3-5 years experience in the related area as an individual contributor. Thorough knowledge of functional area and department processes.
Oil Operator - Average Salary $45,861
There is currently no job description for Oil Operator, be the first to submit the job responsibilities for Oil Operator.
Field Operator I - Average Salary $65,255
Field Operator I sets up and operates a variety of oil, gas, or mining machines and equipment on designated sites. Reads and interprets blueprints and diagrams to select, operate, and properly secure machinery. Being a Field Operator I maintains equipment and troubleshoots technical issues as necessary. Routinely monitors and tests equipment for quality and safety in accordance with established procedures, guidelines, and regulations. Additionally, Field Operator I requires a high school diploma. Typically reports to a supervisor. The Field Operator I works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. May require 0-1 year of general work experience.
Field Operator II - Average Salary $73,601
Field Operator II sets up and operates a variety of oil, gas, or mining machines and equipment on designated sites. Reads and interprets blueprints and diagrams to select, operate, and properly secure machinery. Being a Field Operator II maintains equipment and troubleshoots technical issues as necessary. Routinely monitors and tests equipment for quality and safety in accordance with established procedures, guidelines, and regulations. Additionally, Field Operator II requires a high school diploma. Typically reports to a supervisor. The Field Operator II works under moderate supervision. Gaining or has attained full proficiency in a specific area of discipline. To be a Field Operator II typically requires 1-3 years of related experience.