Drilling Rig Hand

Donald Smith Company is hiring a full-time Drilling Rig Hand in Headland, AL.

Donald Smith Company is a family-owned and operated water well drilling and pump repair company that has been in business for over 80 years.

As a Drilling Rig Hand, you will assist with drilling rig operations, equipment maintenance, drilling fluids, and general jobsite activities. This is a physically demanding, hands-on position that requires mechanical aptitude, the ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, and a willingness to travel and stay overnight when needed.

Responsibilities

• General drill rig floor operation, including making drill string connections, handling tongs, spinning chains, and operating automated hydraulic pipe spinners.
• Follow instructions and mix drilling fluid formulas, including bentonite clay-based mud, viscosifiers, filtrate control polymers, pH balancing chemicals, and de-flocculants.
• Operate and perform basic maintenance on mud pumps, shale shakers, large-diameter hoses, and other circulating equipment.
• Operate and maintain drilling rigs and auxiliary equipment, including backhoes, excavators, air compressors, generators, and other equipment.
• Assist with the operation and maintenance of fleet vehicles and trailers.
• Follow all safety procedures and maintain a safe work environment.
• Work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, and rain when necessary.
• Work night shifts when 24-hour drilling operations are required.
• Travel to job sites and stay overnight when projects are outside the daily driving distance.

Qualifications

• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record required.
• Class A CDL preferred; additional pay available for CDL holders.
• Must have a general understanding of basic mathematical concepts.
• Must demonstrate basic mechanical aptitude.
• Must be physically capable of safely handling equipment and performing manual work.
• Comfortable working outdoors in heat, cold, and occasional rain.
• Able to work at elevated heights up to approximately 35 feet.
• Able to work night shifts when required for 24-hour operations.
• Must be willing to stay overnight for certain projects depending on distance and lodging availability.
• Must live or be willing to relocate within a 90-minute work radius of Headland, AL.
• All employees are subject to DOT random drug testing.

Preferred Experience, But Not Required

• Prior experience with heavy equipment, drilling rigs, construction, agriculture, or oilfield work.
• Basic hand and power tool experience.
• Forklift or equipment operation experience.
• CDL or willingness to obtain a CDL.
• Experience working at elevated heights or on drilling rigs.

Hours & Travel

• Normal operating hours: 6:30 AM–4:30 PM, Monday–Friday.

• Due to current demand, the team is averaging approximately 55 hours per week.

• Frequent out-of-town travel is required, with crews traveling to job sites on a regular basis.

• Employees will typically leave Monday and return home Friday.

• Some out-of-town projects may require employees to remain away from home for 2–3 months at a time.

• Company-paid lodging and per diem for meals are provided when traveling.

• Employees ride in a company-provided truck while traveling with the crew.

• Additional pay is provided for out-of-town work.

• Night shifts may be required when 24-hour drilling operations are necessary.

• Occasional emergency weekend work may be required.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• 401(k), paid vacation, and 8 paid holidays
• Career growth opportunities
• Per diem and paid lodging when crews travel
• Additional pay for out-of-town work
• 90-day review with potential pay increase based on performance

If you are interested in learning more about a career with Donald Smith Company as a Drilling Rig Hand, apply today!

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