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Drilling Rig Derrickman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Derrickman

Lore City, OH · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

The Derrickman works under the supervision of the Service Rig Operator but reports directly to the ... Performing all maintenance of the equipment and physical space of the drill floor * Rig up and down ...

Derrickman

Lore City, OH · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

The Derrickman works under the supervision of the Service Rig Operator but reports directly to the ... Performing all maintenance of the equipment and physical space of the drill floor * Rig up and down ...

The Derrickman works off the racking platform in the derrick during the tripping of drill pipe and ... Assists Driller in daily rig site duties. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: * High School Diploma or ...

General upkeep of drilling rig mechanical equipment. Read and understand manuals for equipment ... Works closely with floorhands when making trips and assists derrickman in working on mud pumps.

Driller

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$23.50 - $32/hr

Must have at least 5 years of rig experience with at least 2 years as a derrickman or motorman on a similar arctic drilling rig. Internal promotions are restricted to personnel with 1 year experience ...

U.S. Rig Based Positions

Odessa, TX

$25 - $34.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

At a Glance: Non-supervisory rig-based drilling positions include positions such as Floorman (entry-level), Roustabout (Offshore entry-level), Motorman and Derrickman . When completing your ...

U.S. Rig Based Positions

Tyler, TX

$25 - $34.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

At a Glance: Non-supervisory rig-based drilling positions include positions such as Floorman (entry-level), Roustabout (Offshore entry-level), Motorman and Derrickman . When completing your ...

U.S. Rig Based Positions

Odessa, TX · On-site

$25 - $34.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

At a Glance: Non-supervisory rig-based drilling positions include positions such as Floorman (entry-level), Roustabout (Offshore entry-level), Motorman and Derrickman . When completing your ...

U.S. Rig Based Positions

Grand Junction, CO

$25 - $34.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

At a Glance: Non-supervisory rig-based drilling positions include positions such as Floorman (entry-level), Roustabout (Offshore entry-level), Motorman and Derrickman . When completing your ...

U.S. Rig Based Positions

Barnesville, OH

$25 - $34.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

At a Glance: Non-supervisory rig-based drilling positions include positions such as Floorman (entry-level), Roustabout (Offshore entry-level), Motorman and Derrickman . When completing your ...

U.S. Rig Based Positions

Dickinson, ND

$25 - $34.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

At a Glance: Non-supervisory rig-based drilling positions include positions such as Floorman (entry-level), Roustabout (Offshore entry-level), Motorman and Derrickman . When completing your ...

U.S. Rig Based Positions

Oklahoma City, OK

$25 - $34.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

At a Glance: Non-supervisory rig-based drilling positions include positions such as Floorman (entry-level), Roustabout (Offshore entry-level), Motorman and Derrickman . When completing your ...

Performs general repairs and maintenance on major and minor rig components. * Assists the Assistant Driller (Derrickman) with mud-mixing duties. * Performs emergency procedures. * Ensures that work ...

Performs general repairs and maintenance on major and minor rig components. * Assists the Assistant Driller (Derrickman) with mud-mixing duties. * Performs emergency procedures. * Ensures that work ...

Conduct assigned activities on the rig floor * Assist the (Assistant Driller) Derrickman with mud-mixing duties * Perform emergency procedures * Ensures that work carried out is in compliance with ...

Conduct assigned activities on the rig floor * Assist the (Assistant Driller) Derrickman with mud-mixing duties * Perform emergency procedures * Ensures that work carried out is in compliance with ...

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Showing results 1-20

Drilling Rig Derrickman information

See salary details

$14

$27

$43

How much do drilling rig derrickman jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling rig derrickman in the United States is $27.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.12 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drilling rig derrickman?

Drilling Rig Derrickmen are skilled workers responsible for handling the upper section of a drilling rig’s derrick during drilling operations. They guide drill pipe sections into and out of the wellbore, maintain drilling fluid systems, and ensure the safe running of drilling equipment above the rig floor. Derrickmen play a crucial role in the efficiency and safety of drilling operations, often working at significant heights and in challenging conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drilling rig derrickman?

To thrive as a Drilling Rig Derrickman, you need strong physical stamina, mechanical aptitude, and knowledge of drilling operations, usually gained through on-the-job training or vocational programs. Familiarity with drilling mud systems, hoisting equipment, and safety protocols is essential, along with certifications like H2S and basic first aid. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for ensuring efficiency and safety on the rig. These skills are important to maintain well integrity, prevent accidents, and support the overall success of drilling operations.

What are some common challenges faced by a drilling rig derrickman, and how can they be managed effectively?

A Drilling Rig Derrickman often works at significant heights handling heavy drilling mud and pipe, which can be physically demanding and requires strict adherence to safety protocols. One of the main challenges is maintaining focus during long shifts in potentially harsh weather conditions, as well as ensuring clear communication with the driller and floorhands. Being proactive with equipment checks and following proper procedures reduces risk and helps maintain efficient operations. Building strong teamwork skills and staying current on safety training are essential for managing these challenges effectively.

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

AspectDrilling Rig DerrickmanDrilling Rig Floorhand
CertificationsBasic safety training, OSHA certificationsBasic safety training, OSHA certifications
Work EnvironmentWork on the drill floor, handling drill pipe and equipment at the derrickWork on the drill floor, assisting with equipment and maintaining the rig
ResponsibilitiesHandling drill pipe, maintaining the derrick, assisting in pipe rackingAssisting with equipment setup, cleaning, and general rig maintenance

The Drilling Rig Derrickman specializes in handling drill pipe and maintaining the derrick structure, working closely with the drill crew. The Drilling Rig Floorhand performs general tasks on the drill floor, supporting various operations. Both roles require safety certifications and work in the same environment, but the Derrickman has more specialized responsibilities related to the derrick and pipe handling.

How to become a drilling rig derrickman?

To become a drilling rig derrickman, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with on-the-job training or experience in the oil and gas industry. Physical fitness, the ability to work in confined spaces, and familiarity with drilling equipment are important; some employers also require safety certifications such as OSHA training. Progression often involves gaining experience as a roustabout or roughneck before advancing to derrickman roles.
More about Drilling Rig Derrickman jobs

What cities are hiring for Drilling Rig Derrickman jobs?

Cities with the most Drilling Rig Derrickman job openings:

What states have the most Drilling Rig Derrickman jobs?

States with the most job openings for Drilling Rig Derrickman jobs include:

Infographic showing various Drilling Rig Derrickman job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% As Needed, and 80% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,259 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Drilling Rig Floorhand/Derrickhand

Lighthouse Drilling, LLC

El Dorado, KS • On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 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!