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Derrick Operator Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

... operators, and project managers across multiple powerline projects. The role reinforces Irby ... digger derrick, and live-line operations Minimum Requirements 5+ years of field safety or ...

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Derrick Operator information

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$8

$20

$27

How much do derrick operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for derrick operator in Florida is $20.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.94 and $26.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a Derrick Operator?

To become a Derrick Operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete on-the-job training or an apprenticeship to learn equipment operation and safety procedures. Certification or licensing may be required depending on the region, and physical fitness and attention to safety are essential for working in industrial environments.

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 is a derrick operator?

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?

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.
What job categories do people searching Derrick Operator jobs in Florida look for? The top searched job categories for Derrick Operator jobs in Florida are:
What are popular job titles related to Derrick Operator jobs in FL? For Derrick Operator jobs in FL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Derrick Operator job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,779 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Project Safety Coordinator

Irby Construction Company

Cocoa, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

About Us
Irby Construction Company has been building infrastructure for the power industry for more than 75 years. Our business values and performance-driven mindset guide our actions. Our approach to work starts with safety, puts people first, seeks to innovate, and promises to perform.
Irby is proud of its inclusive work environment, family-oriented culture, excellent benefits, and clear pathways for career growth. We strive to provide every employee with clear expectations and opportunities for advancement. What's more, Irby has long long-valued tenure. In fact, many of our executive leaders started with Irby early in their careers and in the field.
When you join our team, you join an established firm, with a culture centered around its people. Teamwork is how we work. There is no other way. Pride is ever-present inside our offices and the bond of brotherhood runs strong among our crews.
Irby Construction is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Quanta Services. That means team Irby gets the benefits of the company culture we're known for along with the stability and resources of a Fortune 500 organization. (NYSE: PWR).
Build your career at Irby Construction.
About this Role
Transmission and Distribution Powerline Construction (Florida)
Eastern Region (Florida)
At Irby Construction Company, we build the infrastructure that powers communities - and we do it safely, reliably, and with integrity. This combined role profile outlines the safety leadership expectations for both transmission and distribution powerline projects across Florida.
Role Overview
The Project Safety Coordinator serves as the field safety leader supporting crews, foremen, operators, and project managers across multiple powerline projects. The role reinforces Irby's Ownership of Safety culture, integrates safety into daily execution, and drives hazard recognition, incident prevention, training, and compliance.
What You'll Do
Core Responsibilities
Lead and reinforce Irby's Ownership of Safety culture across active jobsites.
Embed safety planning into daily operations, from pre-job planning through completion or final energization.
Coach crews to identify hazards in real time and take corrective action without disrupting safe production.
Lead tailgate talks, site meetings, and on-the-job safety training.
Manage incident investigations, root cause analysis, reporting, and corrective actions.
Maintain accurate documentation and support compliance with OSHA and client requirements.
Partner with field leadership to improve safe work practices and reduce operational risk.
Discipline-Specific Scope
Transmission Projects
Structure erection, rigging, and wire stringing
Grounding and heavy equipment operations
Energized line work and related transmission activities
Coordination of safety planning from pre-construction through completion
Distribution Projects
Pole setting and framing
Conductor installation and tensioning
Underground cable pulling and splicing
Transformer, switchgear, bucket truck, digger derrick, and live-line operations
What You'll Bring
Minimum Requirements
5+ years of field safety or leadership experience in transmission powerline construction, distribution powerline construction, or losely related heavy construction work.
Strong communication and leadership skills with field credibility.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams.
Experience with safety reporting systems, digital documentation, and compliance records.
Valid driver's license and willingness to travel within Florida or surrounding states.
Preferred Qualifications
First Aid/CPR/AED and Bloodborne Pathogens Trainer certification.
OSHA #500
Professional Certification: CHST, STS,STSC, CUSP, COSS, or similar safety credential.
Hands-on experience supporting energized work environments and high-risk utility construction tasks.
Who You Are
A field-tested safety leader who understands the pace and pressure of utility construction work.
A coach who builds trust and reinforces safe habits without slowing progress.
Organized, decisive, proactive, and comfortable supporting multiple crews across a widegeography.
Committed to mentoring the next generation of safety-conscious workers
Why Irby Construction
Lead safety on high-impact transmission and distribution projects across Florida.
Collaborate with experienced teams that value safety leadership and operational excellence.
Build a long-term career with a company known for Safety, Integrity, and Quality.
Ready to Power What's Next? Join Irby Construction and help shape the future of safety in powerline construction - mentoring crews, driving innovation, and making a lasting impact one safe job at a time.
What You'll Get
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance
  • 401K

Equal Opportunity Employer
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.
We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Company's Human Resources department.