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Assistant Derrickman Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a dependable and experienced Workover Derrickman to join our team in Freer, TX. This ... Perform or assist with snubbing and fishing operations as required. * Participate in safety ...

We are seeking a dependable and experienced Workover Derrickman to join our team in Freer, TX. This ... Perform or assist with snubbing and fishing operations as required. * Participate in safety ...

We are seeking a dependable and experienced Workover Derrickman to join our team in Freer, TX. This ... Perform or assist with snubbing and fishing operations as required. * Participate in safety ...

Assistant Derrickman information

See Texas salary details

$8

$18

$29

How much do assistant derrickman jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant derrickman in Texas is $18.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.53 and $19.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant derrickman?

Assistant Derrickmen are oil and gas drilling crew members who support the Derrickman in maintaining and operating drilling rigs. Their duties include assisting with the handling of drill pipes, maintaining drilling equipment, and ensuring the safety of the derrick operations. They also help monitor drilling fluids, perform routine maintenance, and follow safety procedures to prevent accidents. This role is physically demanding and requires attention to detail and a strong understanding of safety protocols. Assistant Derrickmen typically work on-site, often in challenging environments such as offshore oil rigs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant derrickman, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Derrickman, you need a solid understanding of drilling operations, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by safety and rig operation training. Familiarity with drilling equipment, safety systems, and certifications such as H2S awareness and first aid are commonly required. Strong teamwork, communication, and attention to detail are vital soft skills to ensure safe and efficient rig operations. These competencies help maintain safety standards, prevent accidents, and ensure smooth drilling processes in a demanding work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by an assistant derrickman, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Assistant Derrickmen often encounter challenges such as working in physically demanding conditions, maintaining safety protocols at heights, and managing heavy equipment. Adapting to varying weather, communicating effectively with team members, and staying alert to potential hazards are essential. To address these challenges, it's important to follow established safety procedures, participate in regular training, and foster strong teamwork with drillers and derrickmen. This approach not only minimizes risks but also helps ensure efficient and safe rig operations.

What is the difference between Assistant Derrickman vs Derrickhand?

AspectAssistant DerrickmanDerrickhand
CertificationsOSHA safety training, basic riggingOSHA safety training, advanced rigging, and sometimes additional certifications
Work EnvironmentOn drilling rigs, assisting with equipment and safetyOn drilling rigs, handling pipe, equipment, and assisting with operations
Job ResponsibilitiesSupporting Derrickman, cleaning, and assisting with rig operationsHandling drill pipe, maintaining equipment, and supporting Derrickman

The Assistant Derrickman works closely with the Derrickhand, providing support and assisting with rig operations. While both roles require safety training and involve working on drilling rigs, the Derrickhand has more advanced responsibilities like handling drill pipe and equipment. The Assistant Derrickman is typically an entry-level position, serving as a stepping stone to becoming a Derrickhand.

What are the most commonly searched types of Derrickman jobs in Texas?

The most popular types of Derrickman jobs in Texas are:

Infographic showing various Assistant Derrickman job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,476 per year, or $18 per hour.

Workover Rig Derrickman

Killam Oil Co LTD

Freer, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Description

SUMMARY: 

We are seeking a dependable and experienced Workover Derrickman to join our team in Freer, TX. This position is responsible for working on the derrick (mast) of a workover rig, assisting in the handling of tubulars, maintaining rig equipment, and supporting safe and efficient rig operations. This position plays a key role in the running and pulling of tubing and rods during well servicing operations.


Requirements

ESSENTIAL DUTIES: 

  • Work from the derrick platform to latch and guide tubing, rods, or casing into or out of the wellbore.
  • Operate elevators and tongs to assist with the handling of tubulars.
  • Follow all safety protocols and ensure the use of required PPE.
  • Inspect and secure fall protection equipment and derrick harness.
  • Maintain the crown, monkey board, and derrick platform.
  • Follow established work plans and instructions to complete assigned tasks efficiently.
  • Inspect and clean tools and equipment used on the rig floor and derrick.
  • Assist in the rig-up and rig-down processes.
  • Assist Floorhands and Operator as needed during well servicing activities.
  • Communicate effectively with the Operator and ground crew.
  • Perform or assist with snubbing and fishing operations as required.
  • Participate in safety meetings and actively promote a culture of safety on the job site.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION:

Must have a high school diploma, equivalency or equivalent experience.

EXPERIENCE:

  • Valid Driver's License. 
  • Prior experience working on a workover or well service rig (3+ years preferred).
  • Comfortable with heights and working in all weather conditions
  • Basic mechanical skills and understanding of rig equipment
  • Physical ability to handle demanding tasks in various environmental conditions.
  • Strong communication skills and teamwork orientation.

SKILLS: 

  • Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving ability.
  • Excellent spatial awareness and hand-eye coordination.
  • Ability to work independently and in a team setting.
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Strong time management and organizational skills.
  • Commitment to workplace safety and following procedures.
  • Adaptability to changing work conditions and job requirements.

LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS:  

Must have a current valid driver's license and a satisfactory driving record. 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Must be able to perform the following physical activity on a frequent to constant basis:

  • Stand for long periods of time.
  • Lift 50-70 lbs. with or without assistance.
  • Able to quickly move hands, hands together with arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
  • Coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down.
  • Perform physical activities that require considerable use of arms and legs and moving the whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials.
  • Able to hear average or normal conversations and receive ordinary information through verbal communications in person or detect objects in and around job site.
  • Average, ordinary visual acuity necessary to prepare or inspect documents; operate various types of machinery and handheld equipment.
  • Walk moderate distances on slippery, even, and/or uneven surfaces.
  • Stand, bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, twist, turn, or crawl.
  • Climb and balance on stairs, metal/wooden beams, ladders, or other structures/elevated areas.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

  • Work primarily at job site performing work in outdoor weather conditions with exposure to extreme cold, heat, and noise depending upon project site; and may also include the following:
  • dust, fumes, chemicals, and/or other harsh/hazardous solvents or disinfectants
  • electrical components, power lines, or other electrical hazards
  • rebar, blades, or other sharp objects/tools
  • high elevations, trenches, or crawl spaces
  • Possible travel locally during the work day between jobsites, although some out-of-area travel may be expected with seldom overnight travel.
  • Work irregular hours to include nights and weekends.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

Must be able to:

  • Follow all applicable company, state and federal safety and environmental rules and regulations in assigned areas.
  • Adhere to and perform functions according to company and OSHA safety guidelines. 
  • Work in a cooperative team environment.
  • Maintain clean and orderly work area
  • Participate in training and development opportunities offered to maintain knowledge of current practices and safety knowledge.
  • Communicate and comprehend instructions/directions in accordance with safety requirements, which necessitate no language barriers exist between employees and supervisors.
  • Maintain regular, timely, and predictable attendance.
  • Represent the company in a professional manner to callers and visitors.