TOP DRIVE TECHNICIAN IV

Nabors Industries; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

OSHA 10/OSHA 30

H2S Alive

First Aid/CPR

Forklift Certification

RigPass or SafeLand

OEM Certifications

Job summary

Nabors Industries in Houston, TX, is seeking a skilled Maintenance Technician to inspect, maintain, troubleshoot, repair, and install drilling equipment used on land and offshore rigs. You will work closely with drilling crews to minimize downtime and ensure safe, reliable operation of critical rig equipment.

The role covers top drive systems, iron roughneck equipment, service loops, and hydraulic catwalks, with 3+ years of oilfield maintenance required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Technical training or an associate degree preferred.
• 3+ years' experience maintaining rig equipment.

Responsibilities

• Inspect, maintain, troubleshoot, repair, and install drilling equipment on land and offshore rigs.
• Perform preventive maintenance on top drive and related systems.
• Troubleshoot hydraulic, mechanical, electrical components.
• Repair components including motors, gearboxes, valves, and cylinders.
• Maintain service records and ensure safety standards.

Skills

Troubleshooting

Diagnostics

Oilfield equipment

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Associates degree or technical training

Job description

Nabors is a leading provider of advanced technology for the energy industry. With operations in about 20 countries, Nabors has established a global network of people, technology and equipment to deploy solutions that deliver safe, efficient and responsible hydrocarbon production. By leveraging its core competencies, particularly in drilling, engineering, automation, data science and manufacturing, Nabors aims to innovate the future of energy and enable the transition to a lower carbon world.

The Top Drive, Iron Roughneck, Service Loops, and Catwalk Maintenance Technician is responsible for the inspection, maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, and installation of drilling equipment used on land and offshore drilling rigs. This position ensures critical rig equipment operates safely, efficiently, and in compliance with company and industry standards. The technician works closely with drilling crews, maintenance personnel, and equipment manufacturers to minimize downtime and maximize equipment reliability.

Top Drive Systems

• Perform preventive maintenance and inspections on top drive systems.

• Troubleshoot mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical components.

• Repair or replace motors, gearboxes, bearings, seals, and hydraulic systems.

• Conduct operational testing and ensure proper functionality following repairs.

• Maintain service records and maintenance documentation.

Iron Roughneck Equipment

• Inspect, troubleshoot, and repair iron roughneck systems.

• Maintain hydraulic cylinders, valves, hoses, jaws, and torque systems.

• Calibrate and verify proper torque settings and operational performance.

• Diagnose and resolve mechanical and hydraulic failures during rig operations.

• Ensure equipment complies with OEM specifications and safety standards.

Service Loops

• Inspect service loops for wear, damage, and potential failures.

• Repair and replace electrical cables, hydraulic hoses, and protective coverings.

• Perform continuity and insulation resistance testing.

• Ensure proper routing, support, and protection of service loop assemblies.

• Coordinate with electrical personnel to minimize equipment downtime.

Hydraulic Catwalk Systems

• Maintain and repair hydraulic catwalks and pipe-handling equipment.

• Diagnose hydraulic, mechanical, and electrical control system issues.

• Replace worn components including cylinders, pumps, valves, hoses, and actuators.

• Conduct functional testing to ensure safe operation.

• Assist with equipment installations and commissioning activities.

Education

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Technical school, vocational training, or associate degree in mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, or industrial maintenance preferred.

Experience

• 3+ years of experience maintaining rig equipment.
• Experience with top drives, iron roughnecks, service loops, hydraulic catwalks, and related oilfield equipment.
• Knowledge of hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, and electrical systems.
• OEM training and experience preferred.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong troubleshooting and diagnostic abilities.
• Ability to read hydraulic, electrical, and mechanical schematics.
• Knowledge of drilling rig operations and equipment.
• Strong communication and documentation skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Computer proficiency for maintenance reporting and recordkeeping.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 75 pounds.
• Ability to climb ladders, work at heights, and enter confined spaces.
• Ability to work in various weather conditions and remote locations.
• Ability to stand, bend, kneel, and work extended shifts as required.

Certifications Preferred

• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30
• H2S Alive
• First Aid/CPR
• Forklift Certification
• RigPass or SafeLand
• OEM Certifications: NOV, Canrig, Tesco, Forum, Weatherford, or equivalent

Work Environment

• Land-based and offshore drilling operations.
• Exposure to heavy machinery, noise, vibration, and varying weather conditions.
• On-call and rotational schedules may be required.
• Travel up to 75% depending on operational requirements.