Extraction Workers earn $57,320 median salary – what that means for you
Extraction Workers – the people who operate machinery to extract oil, gas, and minerals – earn a median salary of $57,320 per year, according to the latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates. That's about $28 per hour. The typical range runs from $38,440 at the 10th percentile to $83,490 at the 90th, so pay varies significantly by experience and location.
How much Extraction Workers earn
The national median salary for Extraction Workers is $57,320. That's the midpoint: half earn more, half earn less. The mean – average – is slightly higher at $59,850, pulled up by workers at the top end. At $28 hourly, the job pays above the national median for all occupations.
Entry-level workers (10th percentile) make about $38,440. Experienced workers at the 90th percentile take home $83,490. That's more than double the entry-level figure, reflecting strong pay growth with experience.
Pay by state
BLS data for Extraction Workers' highest- and lowest-paying states are not available in the latest release. However, pay tends to be highest in states with major oil and gas fields – like Texas, North Dakota, and Alaska – and lowest in states with less extraction activity.
How to become Extraction Worker
Most extraction worker jobs require a high school diploma or equivalent. On-the-job training is the norm – typically lasting a few months to a year, depending on the specific equipment. Some employers prefer candidates with vocational school training or an associate degree in fields like mining technology or petroleum technology.
Safety training is mandatory. Many workers need certifications like the OSHA 30-hour construction card or H2S (hydrogen sulfide) training. For specific roles – like blasters or certain oil and gas positions – state licenses may be required.
- Get a high school diploma or GED.
- Complete on-the-job training (often 3-12 months).
- Obtain safety certifications (OSHA, H2S).
- Consider vocational training or associate degree for higher pay.
- Check state licensing requirements for your role.
Job outlook
BLS does not provide a specific growth projection for Extraction Workers for 2024–2034. The broader category of extraction occupations is tied to commodity prices and energy demand, so job availability can fluctuate. Workers with experience and certifications may have the best prospects.
Frequently asked questions
What does an Extraction Worker do?
Extraction Workers operate equipment to extract oil, natural gas, and minerals from the earth. Tasks include running drilling rigs, pumps, and other machinery, and maintaining equipment.
Is $57,320 a good salary for Extraction Workers?
It's above the national median for all occupations ($48,060). For Extraction Workers, pay can reach $83,490 at the top end, making it a solid middle-income career, especially in high-paying states.
Do Extraction Workers need a degree?
No, a high school diploma is typically enough. On-the-job training is standard, but vocational programs or an associate degree can help you earn more or advance.
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 Extraction Workers data.