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Derrickhand Oil Rig Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... and oil transfers are performed in a safe manner while complying with all state, federal and ... and Derrickhand during rig up / down procedures Provide relief on the drill floor for the ...

... and oil transfers are performed in a safe manner while complying with all state, federal and ... and Derrickhand during rig up / down procedures Provide relief on the drill floor for the ...

... and oil transfers are performed in a safe manner while complying with all state, federal and ... and Derrickhand during rig up / down procedures Provide relief on the drill floor for the ...

WTX - MOTORHAND I

Odessa, TX · On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

... and oil transfers are performed in a safe manner while complying with all state, federal and ... and Derrickhand during rig up / down procedures Provide relief on the drill floor for the ...

Righand

Snow Shoe, PA · On-site

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

Previous experience as rig hand, floorhand, derrickhand preferred * Previous experience in a high paced safety sensitive work environment preferred * Working knowledge of oil/gas operations preferred ...

... oil levels, and replenishes the various fuel tanks * Performs routine maintenance on Rig which ... Previous experience as righand, floorhand, derrickhand preferred * Previous experience in a high ...

Righand

Morgantown, WV · On-site

$23.75 - $32.25/hr

Previous experience as rig hand, floorhand, derrickhand preferred * Previous experience in a high paced safety sensitive work environment preferred * Working knowledge of oil/gas operations preferred ...

Righand

Morgantown, WV · On-site

$23.75 - $32.25/hr

Previous experience as rig hand, floorhand, derrickhand preferred * Previous experience in a high paced safety sensitive work environment preferred * Working knowledge of oil/gas operations preferred ...

Floorhand

Weston, WV · On-site

... oil levels, and replenishes the various fuel tanks * Performs routine maintenance on Rig which ... Previous experience as righand, floorhand, derrickhand preferred * Previous experience in a high ...

Righand

Snow Shoe, PA · On-site

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

Previous experience as rig hand, floorhand, derrickhand preferred * Previous experience in a high paced safety sensitive work environment preferred * Working knowledge of oil/gas operations preferred ...

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Derrickhand Oil Rig information

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$14

$24

$35

How much do derrickhand oil rig jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for derrickhand oil rig in the United States is $24.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $34.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Derrickhands on an 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 jobs pay 2000 a day?

Derrickhands on oil rigs can earn around $1,500 to $2,000 or more per day, especially with overtime, experience, and in high-demand regions. These roles require specialized skills, safety certifications, and often involve long shifts in challenging environments. High-paying oil industry jobs are typically found in offshore drilling or remote locations with demanding schedules.

What are some common challenges faced by a Derrickhand on an oil rig, and how are they typically 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.

What does a Derrick hand do on an oil rig?

A Derrick hand on an oil rig is responsible for assisting with the operation and maintenance of the drilling equipment, including handling drill pipes, monitoring the drilling process, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. They work in the derrick or mast area and often operate heavy machinery, requiring physical stamina and technical skills. The role typically involves shift work in challenging environments and may require certifications such as H2S safety training.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Derrickhand Oil Rig, and why are they important?

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 highest paid oil rig job?

The highest paid oil rig job is typically that of a drilling engineer or toolpusher, with senior positions earning over $150,000 annually. These roles require extensive experience, specialized skills, and often involve working long shifts in challenging environments. Compensation varies based on location, experience, and company, but these positions are among the top earners in the oil rig industry.

How much do Derrick hands make on oil rigs?

Derrickhands on oil rigs typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the rig. They often work long shifts in challenging environments and may receive additional compensation for overtime and hazardous conditions.

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.

More about Derrickhand Oil Rig jobs
What cities are hiring for Derrickhand Oil Rig jobs? Cities with the most Derrickhand Oil Rig job openings:
What states have the most Derrickhand Oil Rig jobs? States with the most job openings for Derrickhand Oil Rig jobs include:
Infographic showing various Derrickhand Oil Rig job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,762 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

The job of the Motorhand is to safely and efficiently ensure that the regular preventative maintenance and repair activities for the generators, main engines, air compressors, portable water system, drill water manifold and pumps, and cold start air compressors occur in a timely manner to prevent downtime and ensure the efficient and continual functioning of the mechanical equipment used in the operation of the drilling rig. The Motorhand works under the direction of the Rig Manager. Nabors is a leading provider of advanced technology for the energy industry.

With operations in about 20 countries, Nabors has established a global network of people, technology and equipment to deploy solutions that deliver safe, efficient and responsible hydrocarbon production. By leveraging its core competencies, particularly in drilling, engineering, automation, data science and manufacturing, Nabors aims to innovate the future of energy and enable the transition to a lower carbon world.Ability to perform essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodations Minimum of 3 months experience as a Floorhand for Nabors Drilling USA or 6 months experience as a Motorhand for another drilling company Ability to successfully complete Motorhand training at the NDUSA training center Ability to wear respiratory protective devices Ability to complete the essential functions of Floorhand duties when needed Must have reliable transportation to and from the rig Perform regular rounds where he / she will look, listen and feel the equipment Anticipate problems that may occur and implement corrective action to prevent problems from developing. When problems are found, analyze the problem area and problem solve / implement a solution to resolve the issue and keep the system operational Ensure that fuel and oil transfers are performed in a safe manner while complying with all state, federal and company rules and regulations as they pertain to this area of the drilling industry Assist the Mechanic with major mechanical problems and repairs that he / she does not have the expertise to complete Along with the Rig Manager and Driller, provide supervision and direction to the Floorhands and Derrickhand during rig up / down procedures Provide relief on the drill floor for the Floorhands, and when trained the Derrickhand and Driller Operate the forklift to offload / back load / relocate equipment, pipe, tubulars, casings, ect.EssentialFunctions: Attention span to stay alert and attentive for up to 12 hour tour while performing sometimes repetitive and monotonous tasks Able to works 7 or 14 days on and 7 or 14 days off, including holidays, weekends and or days and nights Able to receive verbal and written instructions Must be able to stand and walk for a minimum of 4 hours at any one time, including standing and walking on steel decking as well as gravel, board roads and mud, snow and ice Must be able to independently lift / handle items that weigh upwards of 115 lbs(pull slips), lift / handle 100 lbs and hand tools, including 16 lbs - 20 lbs sledge hammers, throughout the shift

Must be able to lift 60 lbs to 5' height as well as carry 60 lbs up / down stairs Able to bend, stoop, kneel, twist, and crawl throughout the tour work shift while wearing Personal Protective Equipment at all times Listen for unusual noises that signify equipment and machinery problems Assist the Rig Manager with trouble shooting and problem solving duties and decisive manner. Other duties asrequired by the Rig Manager