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Construction & Trades · Colorado

How to Become a Rotary Drill Operators, Oil and Gas in Colorado

Rotary Drill Operators, Oil and Gas in Colorado earn a median salary of $79,830/year, which is 18% above the national average. Colorado has a state income tax of ~4.4%. After taxes and rent, a rotary drill operators, oil and gas takes home approximately $3,485/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$80K
Median salary in Colorado
+18%
vs. national average
4.4%
State income tax
110
Employed in Colorado

What a rotary drill operators, oil and gas can afford in Colorado

Gross annual salary$79,830
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.4% state tax)$5,086/mo
Median 2BR rent (Colorado)-$1,601/mo
Rent as % of take-home31.5% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$79,830/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,485/mo

Becoming a rotary drill operators, oil and gas in Colorado

1

Meet education requirements

Rotary Drill Operators, Oil and Gas positions in Colorado typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Colorado. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many rotary drill operators, oil and gas positions in Colorado require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Colorado licensure or certification

Colorado may require specific licensing or professional certification for rotary drill operators, oil and gass. Requirements vary by state, contact the Colorado Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Colorado

Colorado employs 110 rotary drill operators, oil and gas. The highest concentrations are in Grand Junction.

Rotary Drill Operators, Oil and Gas salary by metro area in Colorado

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Grand Junction$69K$33.23/hr30

Rotary Drill Operators, Oil and Gas salary range in Colorado

10th percentile (entry)
$61K
25th percentile
$69K
Median (50th)
$80K
75th percentile
$87K
90th percentile (senior)
$92K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a rotary drill operators, oil and gas make in Colorado?

The median rotary drill operators, oil and gas salary in Colorado is $79,830 per year ($38.38/hr). This is 18% above the national median of $67,890. Salaries range from $61,410 to $92,070.

What are the requirements to become a rotary drill operators, oil and gas in Colorado?

Rotary Drill Operators, Oil and Gas positions in Colorado typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Colorado may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Colorado licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a rotary drill operators, oil and gas afford to live in Colorado?

At the median salary of $79,830, a rotary drill operators, oil and gas in Colorado would take home approximately $5,086/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,601/month, that's 31.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for rotary drill operators, oil and gas in Colorado?

The highest paying metro areas for rotary drill operators, oil and gas in Colorado are Grand Junction ($69,120). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Colorado have state income tax for rotary drill operators, oil and gas?

Yes, Colorado has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.4%. On a $79,830 salary, this means roughly $3,513/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.