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Derrick Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Proficiency in handling and operating derrick equipment and tools. * Ability to work at heights and in challenging environments. * Excellent teamwork and communication skills. * Valid CDL is a plus.

Derrick Hand

Milliken, CO · On-site

$27 - $28/hr

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.

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.

Proficiency in handling and operating derrick equipment and tools. * Ability to work at heights and in challenging environments. * Excellent teamwork and communication skills. * Valid CDL is a plus.

Under the supervision and direction of the Crew Operator, safely works in the rig derrick to transfer rod sections to and from derrick racks to rod lifting clamps as sections are removed or returned ...

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.

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.

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.

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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Derrick Operator information

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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.
More about Derrick Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Derrick Operator jobs? The most popular types of Derrick Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Derrick Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Derrick Operator jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Derrick Operator jobs? For Derrick Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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 Hand

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

***This job has preference to qualified local job seekers within 60 miles of our Axis Alice, TX facility.
The Derrick Hand is part of a 4-5-person workover rig crew who are responsible for performing services on workover rigs. 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 but not limited to the tubing board and rod basket (in other words this person may also need to go up and perform routine maintenance on the derrick structure or components) and other functions specified by the Tool Pusher or Rig Operator.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:
  • Assists the operator in rigging up and down, lining up the well service rig with the well; performs servicing on the well.
  • Responsible for all elevated work associated with rigging up/down (such as removing horse head from pumping unit).
  • Responsible for all work performed for the rod basket and tubing board (transferring rods and tubing from the vertical racks to the elevator).
  • Operates tubing elevators for standing tubing in derrick.
  • Assists in picking up or laying down tubing, manually lifting the tubing from the rack onto the work floor or vice versa.
  • Sets hydraulic jacks, handles pads/boards, and assists in attaching the guy wires to the anchor.
  • Assists in walking the rods when laying down rods.
  • Reports any safety hazards, accidents, or maintenance issues to the Tool Pusher/Field Supervisor.
  • Ensures that work carried out follows Axis policies and procedures and according to Axis and customer safety programs.
  • May be required to work floors or operate the rig when needed.
  • May drive the crew truck as needed (must maintain active state issued driver license).
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)
  • High school diploma, GED, or the equivalent.
  • Must have a valid state issued driver license with acceptable motor vehicle record (MVR); CDL Class A or B preferred.
  • Minimum (1) year of Derrick hand experience required; at least two (2) years of workover rig floor experience required.
  • Ability to effectively communicate, both verbally and written in English.
  • Must be able to work a varied rotational schedule and travel as job requires.
  • Work may be performed in all weather conditions.
  • Ability to lift heavy equipment up to 75 lbs.
  • Ability to access the work environment by use of a ladder at heights of 50 ft. or more.
  • Long periods of standing, squatting, kneeling, reaching or similar activities may be necessary.
  • Able to perform duties with protective equipment, working near or with heavy tools and moving machinery.
  • Mobility, including entering confined spaces, enter areas by the use of ladders or other access devices; ability to bend, stoop, twist, stand, squat, crawl and walk.
  • Ability to interact with others in a team environment.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks at once.
  • Basic problem solving and organizational skills.
  • Reliable telephone (cell phone) communication and transportation.
  • Able to clear pre-employment drug/alcohol and job-relevant screens.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.