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How much does a Oil and Gas Drilling Operator make in Red Deer, Alberta?

Oil and Gas Drilling Operator in Red Deer – $70,720 to $99,216 annually.

Average base salary

$42.00 /hour

Pays above Red Deer Average Weekly : $1,680 Monthly : $7,280 Yearly : $87,360

National Average $40.00 /hour Salary & tax breakdown

Average cost of living

$3,528 /month

for a single person who rents in Red Deer

Cost of living breakdown

Last Updated: November 19, 2025

What does a Oil and Gas Drilling Operator do?

As an Oil and Gas Drilling Operator, you'll play a crucial role in powering the world by ensuring efficient and safe drilling operations. You'll operate advanced machinery and hydraulic systems, working as part of a dynamic rig crew to enhance well productivity. Your expertise will help drive trucks and manage the precise placement of cement and other materials to stimulate production. This role is essential in drilling and well service companies, as well as petroleum producers, offering a pathway to a rewarding career in the energy sector.

Related Skills:

Driving Skills Chemical Handling Record Keeping Problem Solving Communication Skills Show all skills (10)

Core Skills

Driving Skills Safety Awareness

Technical Skills

Chemical Handling Drilling Equipment Maintenance Equipment Assembly Hydraulic Systems Operation

Foundational Skills

Record Keeping

Analytical Skills

Problem Solving

Interpersonal Skills

Communication Skills Team Supervision

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Oil and Gas Drilling Operator jobs in Red Deer, Alberta

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Highest paying cities for Oil and Gas Drilling Operator

Red Deer, AB

$83,200 per year

Browse Jobs

Calgary, AB

$86,320 per year

Browse Jobs

Edmonton, AB

$83,200 per year

Browse Jobs

How much do similar professions as Oil and Gas Drilling Operator get paid in Alberta?

Livestock Farm Equipment Operator

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$47,528 per year

Farm Worker

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$47,840 per year

Oil and Gas Well Driller

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$83,200 per year

Oil and Gas Labourer

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$66,602 per year

Landscaping Labourer

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$41,600 per year

Landscaping Supervisor

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$59,842 per year

Oil and Gas Drilling Supervisor

Browse Jobs

$87,360 per year

Mining and Quarrying Supervisor

Browse Jobs

$122,907 per year

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the primary responsibilities of oil and gas well drilling workers?

Oil and gas well drilling workers operate drilling and service rig machinery, align and manipulate sections of pipe or drill stem, operate and maintain drilling mud systems and pumps, and supervise floorhands and labourers.

What qualifications are required to become an oil and gas well services operator?

Completion of secondary school is required, along with up to three months of training with an experienced operator. Certificates in first aid, hydrogen sulphide awareness, and other safety concerns may also be required.

What skills are essential for a career in oil and gas well drilling and services?

Key skills include chemical handling, communication skills, drilling equipment maintenance, driving skills, equipment assembly, hydraulic systems operation, problem solving, record keeping, safety awareness, and team supervision.

What is the typical salary range for oil and gas well drilling and services operators?

The typical salary range for these positions is $34.00 – $47.70.

Is there potential for career advancement in this field?

Yes, progression to oil and gas well driller or service rig operator is possible with experience. Additionally, oil and gas well services operators can advance to supervisor roles.

What industries employ oil and gas well drilling and services operators?

These professionals are employed by drilling and well service contractors and by petroleum producing companies.

What is the job outlook for oil and gas well drilling and services operators?

The job outlook is generally positive, with opportunities for advancement and specialization as the industry continues to evolve and expand.

Can oil and gas well drilling and services work be done remotely?

Due to the nature of the work, which involves operating machinery and equipment on-site, these roles are typically not suitable for remote work.

What is the population of Red Deer, Alberta?

Red Deer has a population of 100,844 as of 2021, which represents a 0% increase since 2016. [ Explore demographics in Red Deer, Alberta ]

What is the average income in Red Deer?

The average employment income in 2020 was $49,080, while the median for full-time, full-year workers was $63,200. [ Explore demographics in Red Deer, Alberta ]

What are housing costs like in Red Deer?

The median monthly shelter cost for owned dwellings is $1,500, compared to $1,160 for rented dwellings. [ Explore demographics in Red Deer, Alberta ]

What is the unemployment rate in Red Deer?

The unemployment rate in 2021 was 12.3%. [ Explore demographics in Red Deer, Alberta ]

How many people in Red Deer own their home?

64.8% of households in Red Deer are owner-occupied, while 35.2% are renters. [ Explore demographics in Red Deer, Alberta ]

20,000 Canadian salary reported, updated November 19, 2025 (data source: open.canada.ca).