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Derrick Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Team Fishel

Digger Derrick Driver / Operator

Henrico, 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 Henrico, VA office. Duties * Drive and operate digger derrick ...

Team Fishel

Digger Derrick Driver / Operator

Suffolk, 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 Suffolk, VA office. Duties * Drive and operate digger derrick ...

Axis Energy Administration LLC

Derrick Hand

La Salle, CO · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

This position reports to the assigned Tool Pusher/Field Supervisor or Rig Operator. The primary responsibilities of a Derrick Hand are to work anywhere on the derrick of the workover rig including ...

AXI Education Solutions

Derrick Hand

Odessa, TX · On-site

This position reports to the assigned Tool Pusher/Field Supervisor or Rig Operator. The primary responsibilities of a Derrick Hand are to work anywhere on the derrick of the workover rig including ...

AXI Education Solutions

Derrick Hand

La Salle, CO · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

This position reports to the assigned Tool Pusher/Field Supervisor or Rig Operator. The primary responsibilities of a Derrick Hand are to work anywhere on the derrick of the workover rig including ...

Ranger Energy Services LLC

Derrick Hand

Andrews, TX · On-site

The Derrick Hand assists in all duties on the rig site to include rigging up and down, picking up or laying down tubing, working the rig floor, and assisting in operating the rig when necessary.

Ranger Energy Services LLC

Derrick Hand

Hobbs, NM · On-site

The Derrick Hand assists in all duties on the rig site to include rigging up and down, picking up or laying down tubing, working the rig floor, and assisting in operating the rig when necessary.

AXI Education Solutions

Derrick Hand

Powell, WY · On-site

This position reports to the assigned Tool Pusher/Field Supervisor or Rig Operator. The primary responsibilities of a Derrick Hand are to work anywhere on the derrick of the workover rig including ...

AXI Education Solutions

Derrick Hand

Meshoppen, PA · On-site

This position reports to the assigned Tool Pusher/Field Supervisor or Rig Operator. The primary responsibilities of a Derrick Hand are to work anywhere on the derrick of the workover rig including ...

AXI Education Solutions

Derrick Hand

Gillette, WY · On-site

This position reports to the assigned Tool Pusher/Field Supervisor or Rig Operator. The primary responsibilities of a Derrick Hand are to work anywhere on the derrick of the workover rig including ...

Axis Energy Administration LLC

Derrick Hand

Powell, WY · On-site

This position reports to the assigned Tool Pusher/Field Supervisor or Rig Operator. The primary responsibilities of a Derrick Hand are to work anywhere on the derrick of the workover rig including ...

Ranger Energy Services LLC

Derrick Hand

Artesia, NM · On-site

The Derrick Hand assists in all duties on the rig site to include rigging up and down, picking up or laying down tubing, working the rig floor, and assisting in operating the rig when necessary.

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$10

$25

$35

How much do derrick operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 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.
Digger Derrick Driver / Operator

Digger Derrick Driver / Operator

Team Fishel

Hampton, VA • On-site

$25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Team Fishel rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Location
Hampton, VA
Market
General Utility Construction
Who is Team Fishel?
Since 1936, we've been the Best Choice in utility engineering and construction. Safety is our top priority and is key in everything we do. We're industry professionals driven by high performance for our customers and each other. Interested in joining our Team?
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 to and from job sites to set streetlight poles
  • Perform clearing, grading, excavations as needed on job sites
  • Property or worksite restoration as needed associated with installation and repair of underground/aerial utilities
  • Performs general construction work (to include physical labor i.e. using hand tools, lifting materials on average up to 50 lbs, etc.) under direction of Foreman or Supervisor

Requirements
  • Have prior experience within the utility construction/maintenance industry driving and operating a digger derrick
  • Holding a valid CDL is required
  • Previous experience operating a mini excavator a plus
  • Capable of reading prints and interpreting utility maps to identify the type and size of underground utilities
  • Able to work as needed (over-time, after hours, on weekends, for emergencies or on-call) and in all weather conditions
  • Able to lift/carry 50 lbs regularly and up to 75 lbs as needed with or without assistance

Starting salary $25 / hour dependent upon applicable experience and certifications.
Benefits
  • Health Insurance
  • Wellness Program
  • Life Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Savings Program
  • Profit Sharing
  • Paid Leave Benefits
  • Teammate Assistance Program
  • Learn more ( Español )

Team Fishel offers excellent industry training and a career development path for our Teammates. Competitive pay and benefits, including health insurance, 401k, and a company profit sharing plan!
Join Team Fishel, your future and your team.
EOE/DFWP

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