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Oil Field Rig Mechanic – Excavator
Oil field rig mechanics who specialize in excavators play a key role in the energy industry across the United States. These skilled tradespeople keep heavy equipment—especially hydraulic excavators—running safely and efficiently on drilling and production sites. Excavators are critical machines used for digging trenches, laying pipelines, clearing land, and moving soil or rock. Without them, many oilfield operations would come to a halt. That’s why oil companies rely on trained excavator mechanics to make sure equipment downtime is minimal and production stays on track.
This trade is a combination of mechanical know-how, field experience, and strong problem-solving skills. Oil field excavator mechanics work in some of the most demanding environments in the U.S., including North Dakota’s Bakken formation, the Permian Basin in Texas, and the oil sands of Alaska. Their work is hands-on and often done outdoors, in extreme weather, and on rotating shifts. But for many, the pay, job security, and sense of accomplishment make it well worth the effort.
What Does an Oil Field Rig Mechanic – Excavator Do?
An oil field rig mechanic who focuses on excavators is responsible for maintaining, inspecting, and repairing this heavy equipment. They work on diesel engines, hydraulic systems, undercarriages, electronics, and computer systems. Their main goal is to keep excavators in top shape so they’re safe and productive. On any given day, a mechanic may:
Some mechanics work out of mobile service trucks that go from rig to rig. Others may work from a central oilfield yard or shop. Either way, speed and accuracy matter—every hour of equipment downtime costs companies thousands of dollars in lost productivity.
Where Do They Work?
Oil field excavator mechanics are employed by drilling contractors, energy companies, heavy equipment dealers, and third-party service providers. Common job locations include:
Since oilfield work is often remote, mechanics may live in temporary camps or work on a rotation schedule—like two weeks on, one week off. Travel is part of the job, and a valid CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) is often required for hauling tools or equipment between sites.
Tools and Knowledge Required
To succeed as an oil field excavator mechanic, you need a solid foundation in diesel mechanics, hydraulics, and electrical systems. Most workers also gain specialized knowledge of the specific excavator brands used in oilfields, such as Caterpillar, Komatsu, or John Deere. Tools commonly used in the trade include:
Knowledge of OSHA safety standards, MSHA regulations, and basic rig operations is also important. Some employers provide in-house training, while others prefer candidates with a diesel tech certificate or experience from a trade school like Universal Technical Institute (UTI) or Lincoln Tech.
Who Should Consider This Trade?
If you enjoy working with your hands, solving mechanical problems, and being part of the high-demand oil and gas industry, this trade may be for you. The job isn’t for everyone—it requires physical strength, long hours, and comfort working in remote or harsh environments. But for those willing to work hard, oil field rig mechanics can make strong wages with opportunities for overtime, travel pay, and career growth.
Many mechanics start as helpers or general laborers, gain experience, and work their way up to lead technician or foreman roles. With enough experience, some go on to supervise crews, manage shop operations, or even start their own field service businesses.
Final Word
The oil field rig mechanic – excavator trade is essential to the success of America’s energy sector. It combines hands-on mechanical work with real-world problem solving, all while supporting vital drilling and production activities. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to shift into a more specialized field, this trade offers strong job prospects, good pay, and the chance to work on big machines that power the country’s energy supply.
Oil Field Rig Mechanic – Excavator
To work as an Oil Field Rig Mechanic specializing in excavators, many employers in the U.S. prefer or require proof of your mechanical knowledge, safety skills, and field readiness. While this trade does not have one single national licensing exam like electricians or plumbers, it does include a combination of written tests, hands-on skills assessments, and certifications that help you stand out in the competitive oil and gas industry.
This section breaks down what to expect when preparing for employer-specific exams, trade certification tests, and industry credentials that are common for excavator mechanics working in the oil field. Whether you’re new to the trade or looking to advance your career, knowing what the exam process looks like will help you succeed.
Do You Need a License?
In most U.S. states, there is no government license required to become an oil field rig mechanic. However, many companies—especially larger drilling contractors and equipment service firms—require mechanics to pass in-house exams or carry industry-recognized certifications.
Some employers also prefer or require you to have a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) so you can transport equipment and service trucks to job sites. You may also need OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification to work on high-risk oilfield projects. If you plan to do welding on excavators, an AWS (American Welding Society) certification may also be required.
What Kind of Exam Can You Expect?
Most oilfield companies give a pre-employment test before hiring mechanics. This test is usually a mix of multiple-choice questions and hands-on tasks. The goal is to make sure you have the right mechanical knowledge and skills to work safely on high-value machines like hydraulic excavators.
Here’s what the exam process often looks like:
1. Written Test
This section includes about 50–100 multiple-choice questions. Topics may include:
Employers want to know that you can recognize problems, follow service procedures, and work safely around heavy equipment. You’ll need to show that you understand both the parts and the systems that make an excavator run.
2. Practical Skills Test
This is a hands-on portion of the exam where you may be asked to:
This part of the test is usually timed and done in a shop environment. It gives employers a chance to see how well you work under pressure and whether you follow safe, accurate procedures.
Industry Certifications
Although not required by law, many U.S. oil companies prefer mechanics who hold trade certifications. These can boost your pay and job prospects.
Recommended Certifications:
You can also check with the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) for more credentials relevant to heavy equipment maintenance.
How to Prepare for the Exam
Preparation is key. Here are a few ways to study before your written or hands-on test:
If you’re unsure where to start, many trade schools and community colleges offer review courses. Some employers also offer paid pre-apprenticeship programs that include test prep and hands-on practice.
Final Word
The exam process for becoming an Oil Field Rig Mechanic – Excavator is not one-size-fits-all. It depends on the company, region, and type of work you’ll be doing. But nearly all employers will test your ability to work safely, think critically, and understand complex machinery.
Passing these exams—both written and hands-on—can lead to long-term, high-paying jobs in the oil industry. With the right preparation, tools, and mindset, you’ll be well on your way to a strong career in this demanding but rewarding trade.
Oil Field Rig Mechanic – Excavator
To work as an Oil Field Rig Mechanic specializing in excavators, many employers in the U.S. prefer or require proof of your mechanical knowledge, safety skills, and field readiness. While this trade does not have one single national licensing exam like electricians or plumbers, it does include a combination of written tests, hands-on skills assessments, and certifications that help you stand out in the competitive oil and gas industry.
This section breaks down what to expect when preparing for employer-specific exams, trade certification tests, and industry credentials that are common for excavator mechanics working in the oil field. Whether you’re new to the trade or looking to advance your career, knowing what the exam process looks like will help you succeed.
Do You Need a License?
In most U.S. states, there is no government license required to become an oil field rig mechanic. However, many companies—especially larger drilling contractors and equipment service firms—require mechanics to pass in-house exams or carry industry-recognized certifications.
Some employers also prefer or require you to have a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) so you can transport equipment and service trucks to job sites. You may also need OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification to work on high-risk oilfield projects. If you plan to do welding on excavators, an AWS (American Welding Society) certification may also be required.
What Kind of Exam Can You Expect?
Most oilfield companies give a pre-employment test before hiring mechanics. This test is usually a mix of multiple-choice questions and hands-on tasks. The goal is to make sure you have the right mechanical knowledge and skills to work safely on high-value machines like hydraulic excavators.
Here’s what the exam process often looks like:
1. Written Test
This section includes about 50–100 multiple-choice questions. Topics may include:
Employers want to know that you can recognize problems, follow service procedures, and work safely around heavy equipment. You’ll need to show that you understand both the parts and the systems that make an excavator run.
2. Practical Skills Test
This is a hands-on portion of the exam where you may be asked to:
This part of the test is usually timed and done in a shop environment. It gives employers a chance to see how well you work under pressure and whether you follow safe, accurate procedures.
Industry Certifications
Although not required by law, many U.S. oil companies prefer mechanics who hold trade certifications. These can boost your pay and job prospects.
Recommended Certifications:
You can also check with the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) for more credentials relevant to heavy equipment maintenance.
How to Prepare for the Exam
Preparation is key. Here are a few ways to study before your written or hands-on test:
If you’re unsure where to start, many trade schools and community colleges offer review courses. Some employers also offer paid pre-apprenticeship programs that include test prep and hands-on practice.
Oil Field Rig Mechanic – Excavator
Working as an Oil Field Rig Mechanic who focuses on excavators means you’re part of the hard-working crew that keeps the oil industry moving. Excavators are a key piece of equipment used on oil rigs and drilling sites across the United States. Whether it’s digging trenches for pipelines, clearing land for rig setups, or moving materials, these machines are always on the job. And when they break down, it’s the mechanic’s job to fix them—fast.
Each day in this trade brings different challenges. It’s hands-on, physical work that requires mechanical skills, safety awareness, and the ability to work in tough conditions. Let’s take a look at what a typical day looks like for an excavator mechanic in the oil field.
Starting the Day Early
Most oil field mechanics start their day before the sun comes up. If you're working on a remote job site, you may be staying in crew housing or a work camp nearby. Many mechanics work 12-hour shifts, often on a rotation like two weeks on and one week off. This means long days—but also longer breaks between shifts.
Your day usually begins with a safety meeting. Oil field work is dangerous, so the crew gathers to review safety procedures, weather conditions, and daily tasks. You’ll check your tools, safety gear, and make sure your work truck is ready to go.
First Job of the Day
Once you hit the site, your first stop might be an excavator that won’t start or one that’s leaking hydraulic fluid. You’ll run diagnostics to figure out the issue. This could mean checking the battery, inspecting hoses, or using a pressure gauge to test the hydraulic system. Sometimes it’s a quick fix, like replacing a filter or topping off fluids. Other times, you’ll have to remove and replace a faulty part.
If the excavator is down and holding up work, the pressure is on to get it fixed fast. Downtime costs oil companies money, so your skills and decision-making really matter.
Working Conditions
Expect to be outside in all kinds of weather. Whether it's the heat of Texas or the snow of North Dakota, the work doesn’t stop. You’ll be climbing on equipment, getting dirty, and handling heavy parts. That’s why proper safety gear—like gloves, steel-toe boots, goggles, and flame-resistant clothing—is required.
Sometimes you’ll work out of a service truck that’s fully stocked with tools, spare parts, and diagnostic equipment. Other times, you’ll be called to a remote part of the site and have to get creative with the tools you have on hand. Problem-solving and thinking on your feet are a big part of the job.
Midday Tasks
After lunch, you might be scheduled for routine maintenance on another machine. Preventive maintenance is just as important as emergency repairs. You could be changing oil, inspecting the undercarriage, greasing fittings, or calibrating electronic controls. Many oil companies have strict maintenance schedules, and it's your job to make sure everything is documented correctly.
Throughout the day, you’ll communicate with operators, rig supervisors, and other mechanics. Teamwork is essential. A good mechanic listens carefully to machine operators—they often notice small issues before they become big problems.
Wrapping Up
As the shift ends, you’ll finish up repairs, clean your work area, and restock tools or parts. Many companies require detailed reports on all work done, so expect to spend time logging job notes, service checks, and any parts used.
Before heading back to camp or home base, you may attend another quick meeting to hand off information to the night crew. If you’re on a rotation, you’ll do this every day until your off-week arrives.
Is This Career Right for You?
Being an oil field rig mechanic is not a desk job. It’s for people who enjoy working with machines, solving mechanical problems, and being part of a team that keeps America’s energy sector running. The work can be hard and dirty, but the pay is strong, and there’s a real sense of pride in doing a job that matters.
With experience, you can move into lead mechanic roles, supervisory positions, or even become a mobile contractor with your own service truck. If you’re motivated, dependable, and ready to put your mechanical skills to work, this could be the career for you.
Oil Field Rig Mechanic – Excavator
Becoming an Oil Field Rig Mechanic specializing in excavators can lead to a rewarding and stable career in the U.S. oil and gas industry. The path into this trade is hands-on, with opportunities for growth, specialization, and even leadership positions. Whether you're just starting out or looking to move up, this guide explains what your career path might look like and how you can build long-term success in the field.
Starting Out: Entry-Level Positions
Most mechanics begin their careers in an entry-level position such as mechanic helper, oilfield laborer, or equipment technician trainee. These roles don’t always require prior experience, but they do require a strong work ethic, willingness to learn, and the ability to work in harsh environments. In these early jobs, you’ll support experienced mechanics by:
This is where you learn the ropes, develop your mechanical knowledge, and prove you can work safely and follow instructions. Entry-level jobs are common in states like Texas, North Dakota, Oklahoma, and Louisiana—major hubs for the U.S. oil industry.
Gaining Experience: Junior Mechanic
After 1 to 2 years in a support role, many workers move up to become junior or apprentice mechanics. At this stage, you're trusted with more responsibilities, such as:
Many employers offer on-the-job training, and some may even help you earn industry certifications, such as those from ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) or NCCER (National Center for Construction Education and Research). These credentials can boost your resume and help you qualify for better-paying roles.
Mid-Level: Excavator Mechanic
With 3 to 5 years of experience, you can work independently as an excavator mechanic in the oil field. This is where the real career begins. At this level, you’re expected to:
Mechanics at this level often make between $65,000 and $90,000 per year, depending on location, company, and schedule. Many jobs follow a 14/14 or 21/7 rotation (days on/days off), especially in remote oil fields.
Advancing: Lead Mechanic or Shop Foreman
Once you’ve proven your skills and gained solid experience, you may be promoted to lead mechanic or shop foreman. These are supervisory roles where you:
In this role, your focus shifts from just fixing equipment to managing a team and making sure operations run smoothly. Leadership positions often come with higher pay, more responsibility, and better long-term job security.
Specialized Paths
As you grow in the trade, you can choose to specialize in areas like:
Each of these specialties can open doors to better pay and advanced roles, especially in large companies that rely on high-tech equipment.
Becoming Independent
Some experienced mechanics choose to go independent. With a service truck, tools, and business license, you can offer contract repair services to oil companies and drilling contractors. This gives you flexibility to set your own hours and rates, but it also requires business skills and a strong client network.
Long-Term Outlook
The demand for skilled oil field mechanics remains strong in the U.S., especially as drilling operations rely more on complex, high-performance machines like hydraulic excavators. The industry may have ups and downs depending on oil prices, but skilled tradespeople are always in demand.
Mechanics who stay in the field for 10+ years often build a stable, well-paying career with options to move into maintenance management, equipment sales, or even technical training roles.
Oil Field Rig Mechanic – Excavator
If you're thinking about becoming an Oil Field Rig Mechanic who specializes in excavators, one of the most important questions is: How much money can I make? The answer depends on where you work, how much experience you have, and what kind of company hires you. The good news is that oil field mechanics tend to earn higher-than-average wages across the United States. This career offers great pay, especially for people who are willing to work long hours in remote or high-demand locations.
In this section, we’ll break down what you can expect to earn as an oil field excavator mechanic in different parts of the U.S., based on your experience and the type of work you do.
Starting Wages (Entry-Level)
If you are just starting out, maybe as a mechanic’s helper, apprentice, or oil field laborer, you can expect to earn between $18 and $25 per hour. This usually comes out to $40,000 to $52,000 per year, depending on your location and how many hours you work.
Many entry-level jobs in the oil field include overtime, night shifts, and long rotations (like 14 days on, 14 days off). If you are willing to put in extra hours, your take-home pay can quickly grow. Some workers at this level make closer to $60,000 in their first year just from overtime and bonuses.
Mid-Level Wages (2–5 Years of Experience)
Once you’ve spent a few years working on excavators and other heavy equipment, your pay will increase. You’ll be trusted to do more technical work like troubleshooting hydraulic systems, repairing engines, and replacing parts in the field.
At this stage, most mid-level oil field mechanics earn between $30 and $40 per hour, or around $65,000 to $85,000 per year. If you’re working in a high-demand area like Texas, North Dakota, or Louisiana, your pay may be even higher. These states have major oil operations and are often short on skilled workers.
Many jobs in these areas include per diem pay—an extra daily allowance for housing, meals, and travel—which can add another $100 to $150 per day to your income.
Experienced Mechanics and Field Technicians
Experienced excavator mechanics who have worked in the oil field for over 5 years can make even more. These workers are often in lead roles or work as field service technicians, traveling between job sites to perform critical repairs and inspections.
Pay for these roles usually ranges from $85,000 to $120,000 per year, and sometimes more. Some workers earn over $130,000, especially if they’re working on offshore rigs or remote drilling sites in Alaska. Field technicians with strong diagnostic skills and the ability to work independently are in high demand.
If you have specialized training or certifications from manufacturers like Caterpillar, Komatsu, or John Deere, your pay may be higher than average.
Contractors and Self-Employed Mechanics
Some experienced oil field mechanics decide to work for themselves. As an independent contractor, you can charge between $60 and $100 per hour, depending on the job, your location, and your reputation.
This can lead to very high income, but it also comes with extra responsibilities. You’ll need your own tools, work truck, insurance, and business license. You also won’t have guaranteed hours, so your income may go up and down depending on the market.
Still, for the right person, contract work in the oil field can be extremely profitable—especially during busy seasons or boom years in the industry.
Benefits and Extra Pay
In addition to hourly wages or salary, most full-time oil field mechanics receive strong benefits packages. These usually include:
Some companies also offer relocation support or company housing in remote job locations, which can save you hundreds of dollars per week.
How to Earn More Over Time
Here are a few ways to boost your earning potential as an excavator mechanic in the oil field:
Oil Field Rig Mechanic – Excavator
To succeed as an Oil Field Rig Mechanic who specializes in excavators, having the right tools and resources is a must. This job is hands-on, technical, and demanding. You’ll need a solid set of mechanical tools, safety gear, diagnostic equipment, and access to reliable training and manuals. The good news? There are plenty of U.S.-based resources that can help you build your skills, grow your toolbox, and stay prepared for any job in the field.
This section breaks down the tools you’ll need on the job and the best resources available to mechanics in the U.S. oil and gas industry.
Basic Hand Tools
As an oil field excavator mechanic, your toolkit is your most important investment. You’ll use it daily for tasks like adjusting tracks, removing hydraulic lines, and repairing diesel engines.
Here’s a list of basic tools every mechanic should have:
Popular American tool brands include Snap-on, Milwaukee, Craftsman, Klein Tools, and DeWalt. While Snap-on tools can be expensive, they’re widely trusted for durability and come with lifetime warranties.
Power Tools and Equipment
When you’re working on heavy machines like excavators, power tools can save time and effort. These are the most common electric and air tools used in the oil field:
Mechanics also use shop presses, hydraulic jacks, lifting chains, and engine hoists in shop environments. If you’re working in the field, look for cordless and compact options that can travel easily in your service truck.
Diagnostic Tools
Today’s excavators rely on advanced electronics and sensors. That means mechanics need diagnostic tools to identify issues with engine performance, electrical faults, and hydraulic systems.
Must-have diagnostic tools include:
Many employers supply diagnostic tools, but it helps to know how to use them before you're hired. Online training or community college courses can teach you the basics.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Safety comes first in the oil field. You’ll be required to wear PPE on every job site. Here’s what you’ll typically need:
Look for FR-rated gear that meets NFPA 2112 standards. Brands like Bulwark, Carhartt FR, and Ariat are popular among American oil field workers.
Recommended Training Resources
Learning never stops in this trade. The more you know about engines, hydraulics, electronics, and safety, the more valuable you’ll be to employers. Here are some trusted U.S. resources:
Trade Schools & Training Centers
Certifications
Online Tools & Support
These websites are great resources for mechanics working in the oil and gas industry:
Some manufacturers also provide free online access to parts breakdowns, maintenance tips, and repair guides for registered users.
Oil Field Rig Mechanic – Excavator
If you want to become an Oil Field Rig Mechanic who works with excavators, a solid education can help you get there faster and safer. While many people start by learning on the job, going through an official training program gives you the knowledge and skills to stand out in a competitive job market.
In the United States, there are several ways to get the education you need to work in this trade. You can attend a trade school, complete a diesel or heavy equipment technician program, or join an apprenticeship. Many of these programs include hands-on training, safety courses, and real-world experience that employers want.
This section covers the best U.S. education options to help you start or grow your career as an oil field excavator mechanic.
High School Preparation
Your education can start as early as high school. Classes in automotive repair, mechanical systems, physics, and basic math are useful. If your school offers shop class or vocational training, take advantage of those opportunities.
Some high schools even partner with local technical colleges to offer dual-credit programs. These can give you a head start and help you graduate with both a diploma and industry-relevant experience.
Trade Schools and Technical Colleges
Trade schools offer short, focused programs that teach the practical skills needed to fix and maintain heavy equipment. Many include hands-on labs where you work on real machines like excavators, bulldozers, and diesel trucks.
Here are some well-known U.S. trade schools that offer heavy equipment or diesel mechanic programs:
These programs usually take 12 to 18 months to complete and may include certifications in safety, diagnostics, and hydraulic systems.
Community Colleges
Many community colleges across the U.S. offer two-year associate degree programs in Diesel Technology or Heavy Equipment Maintenance. These programs mix classroom learning with hands-on work and may include internships.
Some examples of top community colleges offering relevant programs:
Community colleges can be more affordable than private trade schools and often have strong ties to local employers in the oil and gas sector.
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships are another great option. These programs combine paid, on-the-job training with classroom instruction. You’ll earn while you learn, and you’ll gain experience working on the very equipment used in the oil field.
Look for apprenticeship opportunities through:
An apprenticeship usually takes 3 to 4 years to complete and often includes safety certifications, equipment training, and mentorship from experienced mechanics.
Online Training and Certifications
While hands-on work is essential, online learning can supplement your education. Many training centers and manufacturers offer online certifications and virtual classes in:
Some websites to check out include:
Industry Certifications
Though not always required, certifications can give you a competitive edge. These show employers that you’ve learned specific skills and meet industry standards.
Valuable certifications include:
Some programs even offer stackable credentials, allowing you to build a resume with multiple skill sets.
Oil Field Rig Mechanic – Excavator
If you're planning a career as an Oil Field Rig Mechanic who works with excavators, it’s important to know who you might work for and how unions can support your path. This job is tough and demanding, but with the right employer or union behind you, it becomes more stable, better paid, and safer. In this section, we'll explain how unions help workers, which employers hire excavator mechanics, and what kinds of job sites you may work on.
Let’s take a closer look at your options in the U.S. job market.
Why Unions Matter
Unions exist to protect workers’ rights. As an oil field mechanic, especially in remote areas, you may face long hours, hazardous work conditions, and extreme weather. A union gives you a voice and offers benefits like:
Unions also negotiate better working conditions and ensure you're treated fairly. If something goes wrong on the job or you need backup in a dispute, a union can be there to help.
Common Unions for Oil Field Workers
While not every job is unionized, many employers in the oil and gas industry do work with union labor. Here are some of the key unions that support Oil Field Rig Mechanics in the United States:
1. IUOE (International Union of Operating Engineers)
This is one of the most common unions for people working on heavy equipment like excavators. IUOE represents mechanics, equipment operators, and technicians who work in construction, pipeline, and energy projects across the country. IUOE Local chapters—like Local 12 in California, Local 49 in Minnesota, and Local 132 in West Virginia—offer strong support in areas where oil and gas work is common.
2. United Steelworkers (USW)
While known for representing manufacturing and refinery workers, USW also supports mechanical and field roles in the oil and gas sector. If you're working at a refinery or pipeline station, USW may be the union backing you up.
3. International Brotherhood of Teamsters
Some mechanics who work on oil field service trucks and transportation equipment may be represented by the Teamsters, especially in states like Texas, Oklahoma, and North Dakota.
What Unions Provide
If you join a union, you’ll likely go through an apprenticeship program. These programs provide:
Union apprenticeships usually last 3–4 years, but you earn money while you train. At the end, you’re a journeyman with solid job security.
Major U.S. Employers for Oil Field Rig Mechanics
The oil and gas industry in the U.S. is huge, with work available in many regions—especially Texas, North Dakota, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Louisiana. Large employers are always looking for trained, dependable excavator mechanics.
Here are some top companies that hire for these roles:
1. Halliburton
One of the biggest oil field service companies in the world, Halliburton has jobs in equipment repair, maintenance, and field support. They often hire heavy equipment mechanics with diesel and hydraulic knowledge.
2. Schlumberger (SLB)
Schlumberger hires field technicians and equipment operators in states like Texas and Colorado. You may be working on rigs, mobile excavators, or remote field machinery.
3. Baker Hughes
Baker Hughes provides oil field services and hires skilled tradespeople for machinery repair, diagnostics, and rig support in many energy-producing states.
4. Patterson-UTI
Focused on drilling and well servicing, Patterson-UTI often looks for mobile mechanics and field support roles.
5. Nabors Industries
Nabors is another major drilling company that operates across U.S. oil fields. They need mechanics to service drilling rigs and support equipment.
Where You’ll Work
Most oil field mechanics work in remote areas. That means traveling to job sites and working long shifts (12 hours or more). Some sites operate on a 14-days-on / 14-days-off rotation. You'll be responsible for keeping excavators and support machines running, often in tough environments like:
You may also work on pipelines, refinery grounds, or mobile maintenance yards.
Getting Hired
Employers want workers who are reliable, safe, and skilled. Having a CDL license, OSHA certification, and union membership can make you a stronger candidate.
Many companies post jobs on:
Joining a union and completing training through them also puts you at the top of the hiring list for union-backed contractors.
Oil Field Rig Mechanic – Excavator
Becoming an Oil Field Rig Mechanic who specializes in excavators is more than just turning wrenches—it's a career that combines mechanical know-how, safety awareness, and the ability to work in some of the most demanding environments in the country. Whether you're working in the oil-rich regions of Texas or the icy plains of North Dakota, your skills keep rigs moving and production flowing.
In this Trade Insight section, we’ll break down what really makes this job unique, what skills help you succeed, and what challenges come with the role. You’ll also get a clearer picture of where this trade is headed and how to stay ahead of the game.
What Makes This Trade Unique
Working as an oil field mechanic is different from being a shop or dealership technician. In this trade, you're in the field, handling repairs in real-time, often without immediate access to a full garage or parts department. That means you're expected to be:
Excavators are critical on oil field sites. They help build roads, move drilling equipment, dig pits, and support construction projects. A mechanic who understands this equipment is essential to keeping operations safe and efficient.
Key Skills That Help You Succeed
To stand out in this trade, you’ll need more than just basic mechanical skills. Here are the key areas to focus on:
1. Hydraulic Systems
Excavators depend on hydraulics to lift, dig, and rotate. Understanding how to diagnose and repair hydraulic leaks, pressure issues, and valve failures is critical.
2. Diesel Engines
Most heavy equipment runs on diesel power. You need to know how to maintain and repair engines that operate under heavy loads and in tough conditions.
3. Electrical and Computer Systems
Modern excavators use sensors and onboard computers. Being able to read diagnostic codes and troubleshoot electronics is more important than ever.
4. Safety Procedures
Oil field sites follow strict safety rules. Knowing how to lock out/tag out equipment, follow OSHA standards, and use PPE can protect you and your crew.
What the Job Is Really Like
Many people imagine this trade as just fixing broken machines. In reality, your day includes:
It’s a physically demanding career, but it’s also rewarding. You see the direct result of your work in how smoothly the site operates.
Challenges in the Field
This trade comes with some serious challenges:
Growth and Technology
The oil industry is always changing. Today’s rigs and support equipment are becoming more advanced with digital controls, emissions systems, and real-time performance tracking. Staying competitive in this field means continuing your education.
You may want to consider certifications such as:
Learning how to work on electric or hybrid powertrains, telematics systems, and emissions technology will help keep you in demand.
Real-World Impact
Excavator mechanics play a major role in the U.S. energy supply chain. Your work keeps rigs safe, schedules on track, and production targets met. Without skilled mechanics, breakdowns could shut down entire sites, costing companies thousands of dollars per day.
When you do your job well, the whole team benefits—from drillers and equipment operators to supervisors and oil producers.
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