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Derrickhand Oil Rig Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

General upkeep of the rig and drilling floor; includes regular sweeping, shoveling, cleaning ... as checking / changing oil and coolant on engines * Assist Derrickhand with watching and ...

General upkeep of the rig and drilling floor; includes regular sweeping, shoveling, cleaning ... as checking / changing oil and coolant on engines * Assist Derrickhand with watching and ...

Showing results 41-44

Derrickhand Oil Rig information

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$13

$23

$32

How much do derrickhand oil rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for derrickhand oil rig in Texas is $23.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $31.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a derrickhand oil rig?

A Derrickhand is a specialized worker on an oil rig responsible for managing the drilling fluid systems and maintaining the drilling mud. They also work high up on the derrick to guide the drill pipe into and out of the well during tripping operations. Derrickhands play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of the rig, monitoring fluid levels, and supporting the Driller and other crew members. This position requires physical fitness, attention to safety, and the ability to work at significant heights.

What challenges do derrickhands on oil rigs face, and how are they addressed?

Derrickhands on oil rigs often face challenges such as working at significant heights, exposure to extreme weather conditions, and managing physically demanding tasks like monitoring drilling fluid levels and maintaining equipment. Safety is a major concern, so rigorous safety training and adherence to protocols are essential. Communication with the driller and floor crew is crucial to ensure smooth operations and prevent accidents. Most companies provide comprehensive training, personal protective equipment, and regular safety drills to address these challenges and support Derrickhands in their roles.

How much does a Derrickhand Oil Rig make on a drilling rig?

A derrickhand on an oil rig typically earns between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the rig. They are responsible for assisting with the operation and maintenance of the drilling equipment and often work long shifts in challenging environments.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a derrickhand oil rig?

To thrive as a Derrickhand on an oil rig, you need a solid understanding of drilling operations, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with rig-specific equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications like H2S awareness or Well Control are important for this role. Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills help Derrickhands coordinate with crew members and handle high-pressure situations. These competencies are crucial for maintaining safety, operational efficiency, and minimizing downtime in the demanding oilfield environment.

What is the difference between Derrickhand Oil Rig vs Roustabout Oil Rig?

AspectDerrickhand Oil RigRoustabout Oil Rig
CertificationsOSHA safety training, Basic Well ControlOSHA safety training, Basic Well Control
Work EnvironmentOn drilling derrick, handling equipment at heightsOn deck, assisting with equipment and maintenance
Job ResponsibilitiesHandling drill pipe, monitoring equipment, maintaining the derrickAssisting with equipment setup, cleaning, and general labor tasks

The Derrickhand Oil Rig and Roustabout Oil Rig roles both require safety certifications and involve working on offshore drilling sites. The Derrickhand focuses on handling drill pipe and maintaining the derrick, while the Roustabout performs general labor and assists with equipment setup. Both positions are essential for safe and efficient drilling operations but differ in technical responsibilities and daily tasks.

What are popular job titles related to Derrickhand Oil Rig jobs in Texas? For Derrickhand Oil Rig jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Derrickhand Oil Rig jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Derrickhand Oil Rig job openings:
Infographic showing various Derrickhand Oil Rig job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,225 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Experienced Floorhands-US Applicants

Citadel Drilling Ltd., Opla Energy

Odessa, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

About Citadel/Opla
Headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Citadel Drilling Ltd./Opla Energy (Citadel/Opla) is a privately-owned corporation which operates a fleet of technologically advanced automated AC triple (TA2CT) drilling rigs and provides Managed Pressure Drilling ("MPD") technology through our subsidiary OPLA Energy Ltd. ("OPLA") to service the complex drilling requirements of oil and gas producers in Canada and the United States. We achieve high standards of excellence through the acquisition of talented individuals who align closely with our core values of Performance, Acknowledgement, Courage, Communication and Trust (PAC²T). At Citadel/Opla, we are passionate about listening to our employees and clients to deliver an extraordinary drilling experience. We provide a dynamic working environment that encourages professional growth, personal development opportunities for career advancement, and a competitive compensation package.
Position Summary:
Citadel is currently performing drilling operations in the Permian basin and is looking to add experienced Floorhands to our team. The Floorhand reports to the Driller and is an integral member of the rig crew. Primary responsibilities include making/breaking drill pipe connections, tripping, running casing and assisting with cementing operations. Other duties include servicing rig components and equipment including the draworks, top drive, auto-wrench and hydraulic pipe handling system. Rig crews work a 20/10 rotation. Single room accommodations are provided on location, with per diem paid bi-weekly. Provided PPE includes coveralls, hard hat, safety glasses and gloves.
Specific Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Clean up and proper storage/placement of tools.
  • General upkeep of the rig including painting and cleaning as required.
  • Tripping pipe and making connections.
  • Ensure that the drill floor is kept clean and orderly at all times.
  • Ensure that preventative maintenance is performed on all equipment.
  • Inspect tongs for wear, ensure they are in proper working order.
  • Inspect pipe spinner, ensure it is in proper working order.
  • Inspect rotary table.
  • Assist Derrickhand in mixing mud and chemicals.
  • Assist in maintenance and repair of machinery.
  • Handling of tubular goods - inspection and measurement.
  • Assist in drill line slip-and-cut program.
  • Assist in moving the rig, rigging up and rigging out.

Other Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Demonstrate safety leadership through the application of safe work practices.
  • Comply with Citadel's QHSE safety standards as outlined in Citadel's QHSE manual.
  • Active participation in weekly safety meetings, rig inspections, and hazard I.D. programs.
  • Report all incidents and learning opportunities (near misses) to the Driller or Rig Manager.
  • Ensure performance of duties reflects and supports Citadel's PAC²T values.
  • Perform other duties as required.

Qualifications and Abilities:
  • Minimum of one (2) year experience working on an AC Triple drilling rig.
  • Possess a strong mechanical aptitude.
  • Excellent communicator with demonstrated experience working effectively in a team setting.
  • Able to work in a fast paced physically demanding environment.
  • Work outdoors and in various weather conditions.
  • Able to meet drug and alcohol test requirements and fitness to work.
  • Work locations are remote so must have reliable transportation to and from location.
  • Possess a valid H2S certificate and obtain other required certifications.
  • References required.