Earth Drillers, Except Oil and Gas Salary Guide 2025: $60,190 Median Pay & Career Outlook
Earth Drillers, Except Oil and Gas — the people who operate drills to extract water, minerals, or take soil samples — earn a median salary of $60,190 per year (mean $62,830, about $29/hour). The typical range runs from $44,460 at the 10th percentile to $83,800 at the 90th. Nationwide, roughly 19,450 people work in this occupation.
How much Earth Drillers, Except Oil and Gas earn
Median annual pay sits at $60,190, with half of workers earning more and half less. The bottom 10% make around $44,460, while the top 10% earn $83,800 or more. Mean hourly wage is $29.02. These figures come from the Bureau of Labor Statistics' latest OEWS data.
Pay depends heavily on the employer and location. Government jobs often pay less than private-sector drilling contractors, especially those in geotechnical or environmental work.
- Median: $60,190
- 10th percentile: $44,460
- 90th percentile: $83,800
- Mean hourly: $29.02
Pay by state
State-level pay varies dramatically. Washington is the highest-paying state, with average annual wages of $80,490. Alaska is close at $80,040, followed by Illinois ($79,080), New Jersey ($77,950), and Montana ($71,470).
At the low end, Alabama averages $46,440, Arkansas $46,160, and Maine $45,560. That's a gap of nearly $35,000 between the top and bottom states. Keep in mind these are averages, not entry-level figures.
How to become Earth Drillers, Except Oil and Ga
Most Earth Drillers learn through on-the-job training. High school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Many enter as helpers or trainees and work up to driller after several years. Technical schools and community colleges offer programs in drilling technology, but they're not mandatory.
Some states require a license or certification for water-well drilling—check local regulations. Drillers often need a commercial driver's license (CDL) to move rigs. Physical stamina and mechanical aptitude matter more than formal education.
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- On-the-job training; start as a helper.
- Optional: certificate or associate degree in drilling technology.
- State license for well drilling may be required.
- CDL often needed to transport equipment.
Job outlook
Employment is projected to grow 2.9% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 1,700 openings per year, mostly from workers retiring or leaving the field. Demand is tied to construction, mining, and water-well drilling, so it can fluctuate with the economy.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary range for Earth Drillers, Except Oil and Gas?
Typical pay ranges from $44,460 (10th percentile) to $83,800 (90th percentile). Median is $60,190.
Which states pay the most for this job?
Washington ($80,490), Alaska ($80,040), Illinois ($79,080), New Jersey ($77,950), and Montana ($71,470) are the top-paying states.
What education do you need to become an Earth Driller?
High school diploma is typical. Most learn through on-the-job training. Some attend technical schools. Licensing may be required for water-well drilling.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Earth Drillers, Except Oil and Gas data.