Drilling Technician
Drilling technicians operate drilling rigs and equipment to bore wells for oil, gas, water, or mineral extraction. They monitor drilling operations and maintain rig equipment.
What does a Drilling Technician actually do?
Drilling technicians operate drilling rigs and equipment to bore wells for oil, gas, water, or mineral extraction. They monitor drilling operations and maintain rig equipment.
Career category: Energy
How much does a Drilling Technician make?
National compensation data provides a baseline benchmark. Actual pay varies by geographic location, experience level, overtime hours, and employer type.
Median wage represents the midpoint of national occupational data where half of workers earned more and half earned less.
* Note: Detailed entry-level and experienced percentile data is pending source verification.
How to Train & Qualify as a Drilling Technician
Explore verified training pathways, state licensing requirements, accredited college programs, and official apprenticeship sources.
Typical pathway: 1 to 2 years for drilling certificate, or progressive rig crew experience.
Paid field progression starting as roughneck/derrickhand, or technical certificate tuition.
Common Career Entry Route
Entered through specialized rotary drilling technology programs or by progressing up through rig floor positions (roustabout to floorhand to motorhand to derrickhand).
Ready to start training as a Drilling Technician?
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Jobs & Apprenticeship Opportunities
Real employer positions and paid earn-while-you-learn apprenticeships in Drilling Technician.
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Search All Trades OpportunitiesWhat is this career really like?
Key physical requirements, work conditions, and environment characteristics for this career.
Active on-site work involving physical coordination, standing, and equipment handling.
Work follows established safety practices and protective equipment standards.
Job outlook & future demand
Projected employment growth published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Projected national occupational growth rate. Regional and local hiring demand may vary by market.
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