Post job

Rig mechanic education requirements

Updated January 8, 2025
2 min read
Usually, rig mechanics don't need a college education. The most common degree for rig mechanics is high school diploma with 28% graduates, with only 26% rig mechanic graduates earning bachelor's degree. Rig mechanics who decided to graduate from college often finish Sam Houston State University or Oklahoma State University. Some good skills to have in this position include hand tools, troubleshoot and mechanical equipment.

What education do you need to become a rig mechanic?

What degree do you need to be a rig mechanic?

The most common degree for rig mechanics is high school diploma, with 28% of rig mechanics earning that degree. The second and third most common degree levels are bachelor's degree degree at 26% and bachelor's degree degree at 23%.
  • High School Diploma, 28%
  • Bachelor's, 26%
  • Associate, 23%
  • Diploma, 14%
  • Other Degrees, 9%

What should I major in to become a rig mechanic?

You should major in automotive technology to become a rig mechanic. 27% of rig mechanics major in automotive technology. Other common majors for a rig mechanic include mechanical engineering and engineering.

Best majors for rig mechanics

RankMajorPercentages
1Automotive Technology26.7%
2Mechanical Engineering12.9%
3Engineering6.9%
4Business5.0%
5Surveying, Mapping, And Hydraulic Technologies5.0%

20 best online courses for rig mechanics

Advertising disclosure

1. Modelling and simulation of mechanical systems

coursera

The course provides the principles of modelling and simulation of modern mechatronic systems, which are mechanical systems integrated with several types of sensors and actuators. The aim of the course is to show different methodologies to improve the potential of mechanical systems by transforming them into mechatronic systems based on virtual models. In particular, the lessons will be focused on case studies in three engineering fields: robotics, controlled electro-hydraulic actuators and...

2. Quantum Mechanics for Engineers

coursera

This Specialization is intended for engineers seeking to acquire fundamental understanding of quantum mechanics which are the basis of modern electrical, mechanical and quantum engineering. Through 3 courses, you will learn (1) basic concepts such as superposition and entanglement of quantum states, measurement in quantum mechanics and uncertainty principle, (2) mathematical tools needed to describe and manipulate quantum states, (3) advanced theory of angular momentum and (4) approximation...

3. Diesel Engine Fundamentals (Mechanical Engineering)

udemy
4.6
(374)

Learn about the diesel engine! Ideal for Automotive Engineering and Automobile Engineering!...

4. Garnett Cross Training in the Maintenance of Oil Hydraulics

udemy
4.5
(555)

This course will prepare you to work with hydraulic systems, plan maintenance and perform troubleshooting...

5. Quantum Mechanics

coursera

Course 2 of Statistical Thermodynamics presents an introduction to quantum mechanics at a level appropriate for those with mechanical or aerospace engineering backgrounds. Using a postulatory approach that describes the steps to follow, the Schrodinger wave equation is derived and simple solutions obtained that illustrate atomic and molecular structural behavior. More realistic behavior is also explored along with modern quantum chemistry numerical solution methods for solving the wave equation...

6. Mechanics / Statics - Introduction to Mechanical Engineering

udemy
4.5
(263)

Engineering Solid Mechanics / Engineering Statics...

7. The Complete Engineering Mechanics Course

udemy
4.5
(311)

Master the fundamentals of mechanics, statics and applied physics and then solve real-world mechanics problems...

8. Mechanical design and Product development process

udemy
4.2
(604)

Learn the basic ideas and concepts behind developing mechanical products related to mechanical engineering...

9. Reliability and Maintenance Engineering - FMEA

udemy
4
(533)

Failure Mode and Effects Analysis - A mechanical engineering approach to risk management of plant and machinery...

10. Rotating Equipment Masterclass: Pumps & Compressors

udemy
4.6
(305)

A compelete understanding of pumps & compressors used in process industries for a successful operation of your facility...

11. Data Center Essentials: Mechanical & Cooling

udemy
4.5
(892)

The mechanical cooling systems that support data centers and the internet...

12. Basics of Material selection for mechanical design engineers

udemy
4.4
(542)

Learn about the fundamentals of materials and their selection for mechanical engineering design for design engineers...

13. Python for Mechanical Engineers

udemy
4.3
(444)

Learn Python to solve problems in mechanical fields...

14. Internal Combustion Engine Basics (Mechanical Engineering)

udemy
4.5
(723)

Learn how internal combustion engines work! Learn all of a combustion engine's main components and how they work!...

15. Maintenance Planning Basics

udemy
4.4
(1,042)

Understanding maintenance planning basics of successful maintenance department...

16. Centrifugal compressors: Principles, Operation and design

udemy
4.8
(389)

A complete understanding of construction details and functioning of centrifugal compressors for successful operations...

17. Engineering Mechanics: Statics

udemy
4.8
(611)

The Study of Objects in Equilibrium...

18. OSHA Safety Pro: Trenching Excavation & Soil Mechanics

udemy
4.3
(727)

A quick yet detailed certification in OSHA safety with a focus on Trenching, Excavation, & Soil Mechanics...

19. The Complete Hydraulic Course

udemy
4.6
(366)

Oil hydraulics systems & fundamentals, hydraulic fluids, control valves, cylinders, circuits construction & analysis...

20. Maintenance Management Basics

udemy
4.4
(632)

Crucial knowledge and practices for successful maintenance department...

Average rig mechanic salary by education level

According to our data, rig mechanics with a Bachelor's degree earn the highest average salary, at $48,656 annually. Rig mechanics with a Associate degree earn an average annual salary of $47,713.
Rig mechanic education levelRig mechanic salary
High School Diploma or Less$42,942
Bachelor's Degree$48,656
Some College/ Associate Degree$47,713

Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Research Team
Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

Browse installation, maintenance and repair jobs