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Drilling Rig Derrickhand Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Derrickhand

Midland, TX · On-site

$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 ...

Derrickhand

Bend, OR · On-site

$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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Derrickhand

Glasgow, MT · On-site

$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 ...

Job Summary The Assistant Derrickhand works in the mud pump room and assists the Derrickhand in ... Works on the rig floor and any other areas where drilling operations are being conducted when ...

Job Summary The Assistant Derrickhand works in the mud pump room and assists the Derrickhand in ... Works on the rig floor and any other areas where drilling operations are being conducted when ...

Position Summary The Floorhand is responsible for assisting the Derrickhand and Driller on the drill floor and conducting preventative maintenance on rig equipment. Floorhands also assist in the ...

Position Summary The Floorhand is responsible for assisting the Derrickhand and Driller on the drill floor and conducting preventative maintenance on rig equipment. Floorhands also assist in the ...

Job Summary The Assistant Derrickhand works in the mud pump room and assists the Derrickhand in ... Works on the rig floor and any other areas where drilling operations are being conducted when ...

Position Summary The Floorhand is responsible for assisting the Derrickhand and Driller on the drill floor and conducting preventative maintenance on rig equipment. Floorhands also assist in the ...

Position Summary The Floorhand is responsible for assisting the Derrickhand and Driller on the drill floor and conducting preventative maintenance on rig equipment. Floorhands also assist in the ...

Driller

Weston, WV

$21.50 - $29.25/hr

Rig Manager Responsibilities: * Operating and monitoring the essential systems of the drilling rig ... Previous experience working as a righand and as a derrickhand * Previous experience in a high paced ...

The Derrickhand works under the direction / supervision of the Driller, but reports directly to the Rig Manager. Nabors is a leading provider of advanced technology for the energy industry. With ...

The Derrickhand works under the direction / supervision of the Driller, but reports directly to the Rig Manager. Nabors is a leading provider of advanced technology for the energy industry. With ...

The Derrickhand works under the direction / supervision of the Driller, but reports directly to the Rig Manager. Nabors is a leading provider of advanced technology for the energy industry. With ...

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Drilling Rig Derrickhand information

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$14

$24

$35

How much do drilling rig derrickhand jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 24, 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.
What cities are hiring for Drilling Rig Derrickhand jobs? Cities with the most Drilling Rig Derrickhand job openings:
What states have the most Drilling Rig Derrickhand jobs? States with the most job openings for Drilling Rig Derrickhand jobs include:
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.

$32.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

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 systems, monitors weight and mixes weight properly while reporting any changes. The Derrickhand mixes chemicals, monitors pump manifolds and communicates with the Engineer and Driller.

The Derrickhand is responsible for working the top section of the derricks for inspections, racking pipe in the derricks and making connections.Essential Functions Include:To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functionsActively participates in the promotion of Quality, Health, Safety and Environment policies and ensure safe working practices and conditionsReports immediately any incident or accidentAttends daily safety meetingMaintains an up to date training schedule as per requirementsParticipates in pre-task safety meetings prior to any tasks that require themMaintains a solid understanding of all equipment and operational policies and proceduresExecutes tasks as they are provided by senior crew membersMaintains progressive training for the employees on crewEnsures communication of all activities being conducted is maintained between any parties participating in the functionEnsures all tasks are being completed in a safe and efficient manner Wage is $32.50/hr AKITA offers comprehensive benefits including Medical/Dental/Vision PPO, Short and Long Term Disability, Life Insurance/ADD, Flexible Spending Accounts, and Safe Harbor 401k plan.