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 ...
Quick apply
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 ...
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 ...
Quick apply
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 ...
Derrick Hand
Casper, 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 ...
Derrick Hand
Casper, 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 ...
Derrick Hand
Alice, 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 ...
Derrick Hand
Alice, 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 ...
Derrick Hand
Belfield, ND · 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.
Derrick Hand
Belfield, ND · 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.
Derrick Hand
Kilgore, 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.
Derrick Hand
Kilgore, 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.
Derrick Hand
Bowie, 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.
Derrick Hand
Bowie, 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.
Derrick Hand
Odessa, 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.
Derrick Hand
Odessa, 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.
Derrick Hand
Wharton, 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.
Derrick Hand
Wharton, 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.
Derrick Hand
El Reno, OK · 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.
Derrick Hand
El Reno, OK · 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.
Derrick Hand
Big Spring, 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.
Derrick Hand
Big Spring, 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.
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.
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.
Derrick Hand
Williston, ND · 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.
Derrick Hand
Williston, ND · 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.
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.
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.
Derrick Hand
Midland, 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.
Derrick Hand
Midland, 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Derrick Hand
Kermit, 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.
Derrick Hand
Kermit, 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.
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.
ND Derrick Hand
Williston, ND · On-site
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 ...
ND Derrick Hand
Williston, ND · On-site
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 ...
Derrick Operator information
See salary details
$10.58 - $12.81
4% of jobs
$12.81 - $15.03
7% of jobs
$15.03 - $17.26
10% of jobs
$17.97 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$17.26 - $19.49
12% of jobs
$19.49 - $21.72
13% of jobs
The median wage is $22.47 / hr.
$21.72 - $23.95
13% of jobs
$23.95 - $26.18
10% of jobs
$26.18 - $28.41
6% of jobs
$28.53 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$28.41 - $30.64
10% of jobs
$30.64 - $32.87
9% of jobs
$32.87 - $35.10
7% of jobs
$10
$25
$35
How much do derrick operator jobs pay per hour?
As of Jun 29, 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 job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?
A Derrick Operator can potentially earn $10,000 or more per month, especially with experience and working in high-demand industries like oil and gas or construction. These roles often require specialized training or certifications but typically do not require a college degree, focusing instead on technical skills and safety knowledge.
What is a Derrick operator?
A Derrick operator is a worker responsible for operating and maintaining the derrick, a tall structure used to support drilling equipment in oil and gas extraction. They handle the hoisting and lowering of drill pipes, ensure safety protocols are followed, and often require knowledge of rig machinery and certifications such as OSHA training. The role typically involves working in outdoor environments with shift schedules.
What jobs pay 2000 a day?
Derrick operators typically do not earn $2,000 a day; their pay depends on experience, location, and industry. High-paying roles in the oil and gas industry, such as senior derrick operators or specialized rig managers, can reach or exceed this level with overtime, bonuses, and certifications. These positions often require extensive experience, safety training, and working in remote or challenging environments.
How to become a Derrick operator?
To become a Derrick operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete on-the-job training or an apprenticeship to learn how to operate the equipment safely. Certification or licensing may be required depending on the state or industry standards, and familiarity with crane or heavy machinery operation is beneficial.
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?
| Aspect | Derrick Operator | Drilling Rig Worker |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | High school diploma, safety certifications, specialized training | High school diploma, safety certifications, basic technical training |
| Work Environment | On drilling rigs, operating derricks and hoisting equipment | On drilling sites, assisting with various rig operations |
| Industry Usage | Oil and gas extraction, drilling companies | Oil 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 job categories do people searching Derrick Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Derrick Operator jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Derrick Operator jobs? For Derrick Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Full-time
Posted yesterday
Job description
***This job has preference to qualified local job seekers within 60 miles of our Axis Odessa, 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.