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-generated
Key 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
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
