Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas
Rig derrick equipment and operate pumps to circulate mud or fluid through drill hole.
SOC: 47-5011.00
Common Job Titles
- Derrick Hand
- Derrick Man
- Derrick Operator
- Floor Hand
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onOperate mud pumps and derrick hoisting equipment to circulate drilling fluid through boreholes while monitoring pressure and flow rates.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess drilling equipment performance and mud circulation systems by monitoring operational parameters and quality control indicators during active drilling operations.Proficient
- Hands-onPerform mechanical repairs and maintenance on derrick equipment using hydraulic power tongs, wrenches, and specialized drilling tools following safety protocols.Proficient
- Hands-onManipulate drill pipe, casing elevators, and handling tools while working at heights on derrick platforms under physically demanding conditions.Developing
- KnowledgeAnalyze equipment malfunctions and operational anomalies using troubleshooting protocols and mechanical knowledge to minimize drilling downtime.Developing
- MindsetCoordinate drilling crew activities and personnel assignments through verbal communication and hand signals during high-risk rigging operations.Developing
- Hands-onExecute inspection procedures for blowout prevention equipment and safety systems following regulatory requirements and company safety standards on offshore and land-based rigs.Developing
- KnowledgeCalculate mud weight, viscosity measurements, and pit volumes using mathematical formulas and field instruments such as Marsh funnels and balance beam scales.Developing
- MindsetSupport safe work practices and hazard awareness protocols by modeling proper use of fall arrest harnesses, respirators, and hydrogen sulfide detection equipment.Developing
- KnowledgeInterpret drilling parameters and process monitoring data to make operational decisions and communicate equipment status to drilling supervisors.Developing
- MindsetEngage in training and knowledge transfer activities to develop new crew members' competencies in derrick operations and equipment handling.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
11,040
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $42,930. 25th percentile: U.S. $49,440. 50th percentile: U.S. $62,740. 75th percentile: U.S. $72,820. 90th percentile: U.S. $84,620. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $42,930 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $84,620 |
| Workers on average earn | $62,490 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Mechanical3.6/5
- Mathematics3.3/5
- English Language3.2/5
- Education and Training3.0/5
- Public Safety and Security2.8/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Word
Tools & Equipment
- Adjustable wrenches
- Air hoists
- Balance beam scales
- Ball peen hammers
- Blowout prevention equipment
- Borehole casings
- Breakout tongs
- Casing elevators