Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
Oil and Gas Rotary Drill Operators manage and control the operations of rotary drills to extract oil or gas from underground. They are essential in the energy sector, ensuring efficient and safe drilling operations.
Education: No formal educational credential
Years in related career: Less than 5 years
On-the-job training: Moderate-term
Projected Growth: 0.1% (below average)
Annual job openings: 1,200
Direct AI exposure: 0% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 5% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $68K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $47K per year | $54K per year | $68K per year | $81K per year | $102K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $17K above the national average. | ||||
Operators typically work on drilling sites, which can be offshore oil rigs or onshore oil fields. The environment is demanding, with operators working in all weather conditions, often for long hours and extended periods. Safety protocols are crucial due to the high-risk nature of the work.
Oil and Gas Rotary Drill Operators play a vital role in the extraction of oil and natural gas, resources crucial to global energy needs. Their work involves managing complex machinery and equipment to drill wells for oil and gas extraction. The job requires not only technical skills but also a strong commitment to safety and environmental regulations, as the drilling process can be hazardous.
The occupation demands physical stamina, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure. Operators must be able to quickly assess and respond to potential issues or malfunctions during drilling operations. They also need to have a good understanding of geology and petroleum engineering principles to effectively carry out drilling activities.
Career growth in this field often comes with experience and additional training. Operators may advance to supervisory roles or specialize in particular aspects of drilling operations. The work can be highly rewarding, offering a sense of accomplishment in contributing to essential energy production.
A high school diploma or equivalent is usually required. While much of the training is on-the-job, some operators pursue vocational training or courses in petroleum engineering or related fields.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
