Also called: Workover Rig Operator, Pulling Unit Operator, Service Rig Operator
Runs a workover rig that pulls pipe and pumps out of existing oil and gas wells to repair, clean or plug them.
You drive the rig to a well at sunrise, raise the derrick, and work the controls as the crew pulls thousands of feet of rod and tubing. You listen to the engine for trouble and fill out the job report for billing.
BLS OEWS May 2025 (10th / median / 90th percentile). Overtime is common.
High school diploma, about 0 years after high school. No degree; most start as floorhands on a well service crew and work up to operator in 2-5 years, often with a CDL.
Ways in: On-the-job training. Training cost: Get paid while you train.
Growing slowly (about 1% over 10 years). BLS projects +1.1%, 2025-35; about 44,000 jobs, rising and falling with oil prices.
Low risk in 5 years, medium in 10. Automated pipe handlers and remote sensors cut crew sizes on newer rigs; hands-on work on aging wells stays human.
Classes: Auto or diesel shop class, Welding CTE class, Math.
Official data: O*NET occupation 47-5013.
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