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Drilling Rig Derrickhand Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AKITA Drilling

Derrickhand

Glasgow, MT

$32.50/hr

Description The Derrickhand oversees some of the machinery on the rig and is responsible for the conditioning of the drilling fluid and the circulation machinery. A Derrickhand works with the mud ...

AKITA Drilling

Derrickhand

Bend, OR

$37/hr

Description The Derrickhand oversees some of the machinery on the rig and is responsible for the conditioning of the drilling fluid and the circulation machinery. A Derrickhand works with the mud ...

AKITA Drilling

Derrickhand

Midland, TX

$32.50/hr

The Derrickhand oversees some of the machinery on the rig and is responsible for the conditioning of the drilling fluid and the circulation machinery. A Derrickhand works with the mud systems ...

Coastal Well Service LLC

Derrickhand

Morgantown, WV

Derrickhand - Coastal Well Service LLC Company: * Coastal Well Service LLC Department: * Operations ... Operate and maintain drilling rig diesel motors, transmissions and other mechanical equipment

Coastal Well Service LLC

Derrickhand

Morgantown, WV

Derrickhand - Coastal Well Service LLC Company: * Coastal Well Service LLC Department: * Operations ... Operate and maintain drilling rig diesel motors, transmissions and other mechanical equipment

Savanna Drilling LLC

Derrickhand, Drilling

Odessa, TX · On-site

Derrickhand Savanna Drilling General Statement of Duties: * Assists the Driller with the monitoring ... Receives directions from the Driller and overall supervision from the Rig Manager. May also consult ...

Highlands Drilling LLC

Derrickhand

Weston, WV

Derrickhand Reports To : * Driller Department: * Operations Location: * Various/Field-Based ... Operate and maintain drilling rig diesel motors, transmissions and other mechanical equipment.

Highlands Drilling LLC

Derrickhand

Weston, WV

Derrickhand Reports To : * Driller Department: * Operations Location: * Various/Field-Based ... Operate and maintain drilling rig diesel motors, transmissions and other mechanical equipment.

AKITA Drilling

Derrickhand

Bend, OR

$37/hr

The Derrickhand oversees some of the machinery on the rig and is responsible for the conditioning of the drilling fluid and the circulation machinery. A Derrickhand works with the mud systems ...

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All JobsDrilling Rig Derrickhand Jobs

Drilling Rig Derrickhand information

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$14

$24

$35

How much do drilling rig derrickhand jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling rig derrickhand 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 some typical challenges a Drilling Rig Derrickhand faces during a shift, and how are they managed?

A Drilling Rig Derrickhand often encounters challenges such as working at significant heights, handling heavy and sometimes unpredictable drilling fluids, and maintaining proper communication with the team below. Weather conditions can also impact safety and workflow, requiring constant vigilance and adherence to safety protocols. To manage these challenges, Derrickhands rely on thorough training, teamwork, and established safety procedures, as well as regular equipment checks to ensure both efficiency and safety during operations.

What are Drilling Rig Derrickhands?

A Drilling Rig Derrickhand is a key member of the drilling crew responsible for working on the drilling rig's derrick, the tall structure above the well. Their primary duties include handling drill pipes, maintaining drilling fluids, and assisting in the assembly and disassembly of drilling equipment. Derrickhands work at heights, monitor mud systems, and ensure the safe and efficient operation of the rig. They play a crucial role in supporting the driller and other crew members during drilling operations.

How to become a derrick hand?

To become a drilling rig derrickhand, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience working on drilling rigs or in related roles. On-the-job training is common, and familiarity with drilling equipment, safety protocols, and physical stamina are essential; some employers may require certifications such as OSHA safety training. Advancement often involves gaining experience and technical skills to move into supervisory or specialized positions.

How much do Derrick hands make on oil rigs?

Derrick hands on oil rigs typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, with experienced workers and those working in high-cost regions earning higher wages. Compensation often includes overtime pay, benefits, and opportunities for additional certifications that can increase earnings.

What does a derrickhand do on an oil rig?

A derrickhand on an oil rig is responsible for assisting with the operation and maintenance of the drilling equipment, including handling drill pipe and ensuring the smooth flow of operations. They monitor equipment, perform safety checks, and work closely with other crew members to support drilling activities, often working in physically demanding environments and requiring safety certifications. The role requires knowledge of drilling procedures and the use of specialized tools.

What Does a Drilling Rig Derrickhand Do?

A drilling rig derrick hand is responsible for assisting the driller and mud engineer with operations on an oil rig. In this job, you guide the pipe as your team connects it to the drill hole, mix the drilling fluid, or “mud,” and repair and perform maintenance on the rig and associated equipment like the circulation machinery. You keep the pit area, mud house, walkways, and other areas of the rig clean, well-organized, and clutter-free, and your duties and responsibilities additionally include monitoring the mud pump manifolds, assisting in the chemical sack room, and ensuring the proper and safe operation of pumps, mudlines, valves, and gauges.

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

To thrive as a Drilling Rig Derrickhand, you need strong knowledge of drilling operations, mechanical aptitude, and physical fitness, typically supported by relevant safety certifications such as H2S Alive and First Aid. Familiarity with rig equipment, mud systems, and monitoring tools like pipe tally software is essential for daily tasks. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication make individuals stand out in this demanding role. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure safe, efficient drilling operations and to prevent accidents in hazardous environments.

What is the difference between Drilling Rig Derrickhand vs Drilling Rig Floorhand?

AspectDrilling Rig DerrickhandDrilling Rig Floorhand
CredentialsOSHA safety training, basic certificationsOSHA safety training, basic certifications
Work EnvironmentWorks on the derrick, handling equipment at heightWorks on the rig floor, assisting with equipment
Job ResponsibilitiesHandles drill pipe, maintains derrick operationsAssists with equipment, maintains cleanliness

The Drilling Rig Derrickhand and Floorhand roles are both entry-level positions in drilling operations, requiring safety certifications and working in similar environments. The Derrickhand focuses on handling drill pipe and managing derrick operations, while the Floorhand assists on the rig floor with equipment and maintenance tasks. Both roles are essential for safe and efficient drilling operations, with Derrickhands typically working at heights and handling more specialized tasks.

What is the highest paying oil rig job?

The highest paying oil rig job is typically that of a drilling engineer or a toolpusher, with salaries often exceeding $150,000 annually. Derrickhands, who handle equipment and assist with drilling operations, also earn competitive wages, especially with experience and certifications. Advanced roles requiring specialized skills and certifications tend to offer the highest compensation in the industry.
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Drilling Rig Derrickhand jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drilling Rig Derrickhand job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 42% Physical, 23% Hybrid, and 35% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,762 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Drilling Rig Floorhand/Derrickhand

Lighthouse Drilling, LLC

El Dorado, KS • On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Position Overview: 
Floorhands & Derrickhands are primarily responsible for performing various manual labor tasks throughout the rig site, including rig up and down activities, general equipment repairs and maintenance on rig components, conducting assigned activities on the rig floor or derrick, assisting with mud-mixing duties, and other various duties. The Floorhand & Derrickhand are responsible for performing these duties safely and efficiently under the direct supervision of the driller or the assistant driller. 
This is a safety-sensitive position.
Major Duties:
  • Performs rig up, down, and operating activities for up to 12+ hours per day.  Based on experience, this position includes catching samples, using of the tongs, slips, and chain  -  connecting and disconnecting drilling pipe, tubular and drilling bits or tools, and checking hoist lines and ropes for blocks.
  • Performs “nipping up or nipping down”.  This includes the monitoring and operation of the shakers.
  • Assist the Derrickman with mud-mixing duties. This includes assisting with the mud pit, mud pump, and chemical sack.
  • Performs general repairs and maintenance on significant and minor rig components.
  • Responsible for housekeeping activities on the drilling rig which includes at a minimum the cleaning of tools, equipment, and rig site. 
  • Performs emergency procedures as needed.
  • Reports safety hazards or maintenance issues to toolpushers, driller, or assistant driller.
  • Other tasks may be assigned as needed.

Requirements: 
  • A valid Driver's License is required.
  • Knowledge of basic mechanical functions.
  • Oilfield industry experience.
  • Must pass pre-employment drug and alcohol screening
  • Must work well with a team (applicants with a good sense of humor are automatically enrolled in the 'employee of the  century' club) 

Preferred (not required):
  • High School diploma, GED, or equivalent education.
  • Clean Driving Record.
  • CDL.
  • 6+ months of previous drilling rig floor and experience.

Physical Requirements:
  • Able to lift, move, or carry up to 125 pounds.  
  • Able to regularly walk and climb stairs up to 30' high.
  • Able to stay alert and attentive for a 12-hour tour while performing sometimes repetitive tasks.
  • Able to repetitively swing 20 lbs sledgehammers as well as torque on wrenches.
  • Able to open/close valves requiring upwards of 160 lbs of torque.
  • Able to pull drill slips with another employee, and latch/unlatch tongs.
  • Able to listen for unusual noises that signify equipment and machinery problems.

Typical working conditions and hazards:
  • Work is performed in all weather conditions.
  • Able to perform duties with protective equipment.
  • Potential hazards include working near or with heavy tools and moving machinery.
  • Occasional work will be done on slick surfaces due to weather, drilling mud, or oil/grease.

Not Your Typical Drilling Company:
Lighthouse Drilling, LLC is a family-owned owned & operated drilling company, with a solid reputation in Central Kansas. Lighthouse offers a family-friendly, enjoyable work atmosphere and provides advancement opportunities for individuals who are humble and hard-working.
Lighthouse Core Values: 
  • Integrity  
  • Safety
  • Performance 

For full-time employees, Lighthouse Provides:
  • Highly competitive salaries
  • Safety Bonuses
  • Advancement Opportunities
  • Per Diem
  • Health Benefits
  • Dental Benefits
  • Vision Benefits
  • Accident Benefits (Aflac)
  • Paid Time Off (starting at 12 months of employment) 
  • 100% Company Match IRA program
  • Annual Reimbursements for Gear / Boots & Overalls
  • Performance-based bonuses & incentives
  • Company Uniforms
  • Paid Holidays 
Drug-Free Environment - Consistent Work Schedule - Lots of Overtime Available - Established and Growing Company
Check out our website: www.LighthouseDrilling.com
Thanks!