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Derrick Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Asplundh

Derrick Digger/Crane Operator

Ocala, FL

Description Derrick Digger Operator We are seeking a Digger Derrick Operator, preferably with experience in the electrical or underground field, to install traffic signal lighting will also be ...

Team Fishel

Digger Derrick Driver / Operator

Saluda, VA · On-site

$25/hr

Description Team Fishel , the Best Choice in Utility Engineering and Construction, is hiring a Digger Derrick Driver / Operator for our Saluda, VA office. Duties * Drive and operate digger derrick to ...

Team Fishel

Digger Derrick Driver / Operator

Hampton, VA · On-site

$25/hr

Description Team Fishel , the Best Choice in Utility Engineering and Construction, is hiring a Digger Derrick Driver / Operator for our Hampton, VA office. Duties * Drive and operate digger derrick ...

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How much do derrick operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for derrick operator in the United States is $25.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $32.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some of the typical challenges a Derrick Operator faces on the job?

Derrick Operators often work in physically demanding and sometimes hazardous environments, typically on oil rigs or drilling sites. One common challenge is maintaining focus and safety while managing heavy equipment at significant heights, especially during adverse weather conditions. Additionally, operators must coordinate closely with other rig crew members, requiring strong communication skills and teamwork. Adapting to shift work and extended periods away from home is also a regular aspect of this role.

What are derrick operators?

Derrick operators are skilled workers who control and maintain the machinery used to raise and lower equipment in oil and gas drilling operations. They work on drilling rigs, managing the derrick—the tall structure above a well—that supports the drilling apparatus. Their responsibilities often include monitoring drilling mud, ensuring safe operations, and assisting with various rig activities. Derrick operators play a crucial role in maintaining safety and efficiency on drilling sites.

What is the difference between Derrick Operator vs Drilling Rig Worker?

AspectDerrick OperatorDrilling Rig Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, specialized trainingHigh school diploma, safety certifications, basic technical training
Work EnvironmentOn drilling rigs, operating derricks and hoisting equipmentOn drilling sites, assisting with various rig operations
Industry UsageOil and gas extraction, drilling companiesOil and gas industry, drilling contractors

The Derrick Operator primarily focuses on operating and maintaining the derrick and hoisting equipment during drilling operations, requiring specialized training and certifications. In contrast, the Drilling Rig Worker performs a broader range of tasks on the rig site, often assisting with various operational duties. Both roles are essential in the drilling process, but the Derrick Operator has a more specialized focus on derrick operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Derrick Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Derrick Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by on-the-job training. Familiarity with drilling rigs, safety systems, and equipment such as hoists and pumps is crucial, and some positions may require certifications like Well Control or H2S safety. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for ensuring safe and efficient operations. These skills and qualities are important because they directly impact the safety, productivity, and smooth functioning of drilling operations in challenging environments.
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Derrick Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Derrick Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, 46% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $52,447 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Derrick Operators

PiTal Staffing Worldwide, Inc.

Midland, TX

Contractor

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Why work with us?
Enjoy the stability of working with an agency that keeps their clients happy which in turn keeps our applicants happy. We offer extremely competitive rates and pay along with immediate health benefits.

We take the best and most passionate people we can find and put them in an environment where they can thrive. We value customer service, teamwork, and dedication.

Our high standards for our applicants carry over to our high standards as your future employer. Join our team and discover a unique concept in staffing that puts your best interest at the core. We negotiate for the very best in your compensation, accommodations, safety, perks and every aspect of our working relationship with you.

Job Description
  • The Derrick Operator inspects derricks, or orders their inspection, prior to being raised or lowered.
  • Inspects derricks for flaws, and cleans and oils derricks in order to maintain proper working conditions.
  • Controls the viscosity and weight of the drilling fluid.
  • Repairs pumps, mud tanks, and related equipment.
  • Sets and bolts crown blocks to posts at tops of derricks.
  • Listens to mud pumps and checks regularly for vibration and other problems, in order to ensure that rig pumps and drilling mud systems are working properly.
  • Starts pumps that circulate mud through drill pipes and boreholes to cool drill bits and flush out drill-cuttings.
  • Positions and aligns derrick elements, using harnesses and platform climbing devices.
  • Supervises crew members, and provides assistance in training them.
  • Guide lengths of pipe into and out of elevators.

Our Derrick Operator must have knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance, knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications. Derrick Operators needs knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar. Derrick Operators needs knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurements of training effects.

Qualifications
  • Must be able to effectively communicate, both orally and written
  • Must have basic problem solving and organization skills
  • Must be able to bend, stoop and lift objects of up to 75 pounds for extended periods of time
  • Must have workover rig experience; Floorhand, Derrickhand and/or operator
  • Must be able to work in a team environment
  • Must be able to perform the essential functions in a fast paced and high stress environment.
  • Must possess exceptional customer service skills and the ability to work with current and potential customers, both internal and external.
  • To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. 
Additional Information

We review applications in the order that they are received.  Apply today to be given proper and due consideration.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Orientation 30 mins. to an hour...then you're on your way!!!

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