Rotary Drill Operators, Oil and Gas
Rotary drill operators set up and run drilling equipment to extract oil and gas from underground deposits or collect core samples during exploration. They work on oil and gas rigs, which may be located onshore or offshore, and are responsible for managing drill operations and ensuring equipment functions properly.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against rotary drill operators, oil and gas and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A rotary drill operator monitors drilling equipment, adjusts drill speed and pressure based on subsurface conditions, and records operational data throughout shifts that often last 12 hours or longer. They perform equipment maintenance, troubleshoot mechanical problems, coordinate with other rig crew members, and follow strict safety protocols. Much of the work involves standing, walking across the rig floor, and working in various weather conditions.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to prefer hands-on technical work with machinery and systems over abstract tasks, and you're comfortable following established procedures and industry standards. You work well with concrete, measurable results and thrive in structured environments where your role and responsibilities are clearly defined.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska | $77,640 | $85,470 | $107,870 | 130 |
| New Mexico | $62,730 | $82,780 | $91,390 | 580 |
| Colorado | $69,120 | $79,830 | $86,780 | 110 |
| Nebraska | $57,020 | $79,140 | $86,390 | 40 |
| Texas | $60,770 | $77,840 | $86,630 | 5,980 |
| North Dakota | $60,310 | $71,280 | $101,490 | 230 |
| Utah | $59,120 | $70,400 | $74,670 | — |
| Alabama | $50,790 | $67,400 | $91,810 | 40 |
| Mississippi | $45,900 | $67,290 | $67,590 | 130 |
| New York | $57,610 | $67,000 | $81,710 | 50 |
| California | $59,380 | $65,520 | $102,240 | 460 |
| Ohio | $49,000 | $63,600 | $73,430 | 290 |
All 26 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Veriforce PEC Core Compliance Training — Omega Safety Training
- Rigger and Signal Person Certification — National Center for Construction Education and Research
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against rotary drill operators, oil and gas and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 47-5012.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.