During tripping operations the Derrick Hand works above the rig floor at the monkey board. The Derrick Hand would have worked their way up through the drilling rig positions, have a good knowledge ...
During tripping operations the Derrick Hand works above the rig floor at the monkey board. The Derrick Hand would have worked their way up through the drilling rig positions, have a good knowledge ...
The Floor Hand reports to the Motor Man and the Driller. The Floor Hand assists in various jobs around the drilling rig (e.g. pressure washing, hauling mud products, etc.). The position requires a ...
The Floor Hand reports to the Motor Man and the Driller. The Floor Hand assists in various jobs around the drilling rig (e.g. pressure washing, hauling mud products, etc.). The position requires a ...
Welder, Journeyman
Calgary, AB · On-site
... drilling rig components while mentoring apprentices through their training. This role works closely with the Lead Hand to ensure that all products and projects are completed efficiently and meet high ...
Welder, Journeyman
Calgary, AB · On-site
... drilling rig components while mentoring apprentices through their training. This role works closely with the Lead Hand to ensure that all products and projects are completed efficiently and meet high ...
AKITA Drilling Canada - Motorhand
Nisku, AB · On-site
... Rig Manager for major repair work. This position also assists the Derrick Hand and Driller on the ... drill floor while making trips. This position requires a H2S Alive certificate and mechanical ...
AKITA Drilling Canada - Motorhand
Nisku, AB · On-site
... Rig Manager for major repair work. This position also assists the Derrick Hand and Driller on the ... drill floor while making trips. This position requires a H2S Alive certificate and mechanical ...
... seeking a By-Hand B-Pressure Welder / Rig Welder to join our fabrication shop located just ... Grind, cut, drill, and prep materials for welding * Maintain welding equipment and tools in safe ...
Quick apply
... seeking a By-Hand B-Pressure Welder / Rig Welder to join our fabrication shop located just ... Grind, cut, drill, and prep materials for welding * Maintain welding equipment and tools in safe ...
On-Site At Precision Drilling, our mission is to deliver safe, sustainable, and high-performance ... Operate machining tools, power tools, and hand tools to fabricate, modify, or repair components ...
On-Site At Precision Drilling, our mission is to deliver safe, sustainable, and high-performance ... Operate machining tools, power tools, and hand tools to fabricate, modify, or repair components ...
On-Site At Precision Drilling, our mission is to deliver safe, sustainable, and high-performance ... In this role, the Journeyman also works closely with the Lead Hand to ensure all products and ...
On-Site At Precision Drilling, our mission is to deliver safe, sustainable, and high-performance ... In this role, the Journeyman also works closely with the Lead Hand to ensure all products and ...
... drilling fluid measurement products including the Pason Mud Analyzer, as well as other future ... Visit rig sites as required to witness first hand the operating environment and existing ...
... drilling fluid measurement products including the Pason Mud Analyzer, as well as other future ... Visit rig sites as required to witness first hand the operating environment and existing ...
Structural Welder
CA$36 - CA$42/hr
Responsibilities include welding the structure of a drilling rig, with a 50/50 split between ... Experience as a lead hand. * Experience with overhead cranes or holding a relevant ticket. Why Work ...
Quick apply
Structural Welder
CA$36 - CA$42/hr
Responsibilities include welding the structure of a drilling rig, with a 50/50 split between ... Experience as a lead hand. * Experience with overhead cranes or holding a relevant ticket. Why Work ...
Concrete Pump Operator
Edmonton, AB · On-site
Communicate with Rig OP and Lead hand to start/stop/reverse flow of concrete being pumped or if not ... Piling / Foundation Drilling Experience is a benefit. CFA experience preferred. * CCPO ...
Quick apply
Concrete Pump Operator
Edmonton, AB · On-site
Communicate with Rig OP and Lead hand to start/stop/reverse flow of concrete being pumped or if not ... Piling / Foundation Drilling Experience is a benefit. CFA experience preferred. * CCPO ...
Field Service Technician - Slave Lake
Slave Lake, AB · On-site
$85K/yr
... drilling and service rigs. This requires the ability to work independently during irregular and ... Track rig movement and activity in assigned area and work with Account Management team to develop a ...
Field Service Technician - Slave Lake
Slave Lake, AB · On-site
$85K/yr
... drilling and service rigs. This requires the ability to work independently during irregular and ... Track rig movement and activity in assigned area and work with Account Management team to develop a ...
Drilling Rig Hand information
See Alberta salary details
$10.34 - $13.22
3% of jobs
$13.22 - $16.11
17% of jobs
$16.49 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$16.11 - $18.99
36% of jobs
$18.99 - $21.88
14% of jobs
$23.50 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$21.88 - $24.76
9% of jobs
$24.76 - $27.64
7% of jobs
$27.64 - $30.53
9% of jobs
$30.53 - $33.41
1% of jobs
$33.41 - $36.30
2% of jobs
$36.30 - $39.18
1% of jobs
$39.18 - $42.07
1% of jobs
$10
$23
$42
How much do drilling rig hand jobs pay per hour?
As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling rig hand in Alberta is $23.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drilling Rig Hand, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Drilling Rig Hand, you need physical stamina, mechanical aptitude, and a basic understanding of drilling operations, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with safety protocols, hand and power tools, and sometimes certifications like H2S Alive or First Aid are commonly required. Strong teamwork, communication, and attention to detail are crucial soft skills for working efficiently and safely on-site. These abilities are vital to ensure safety, operational efficiency, and the successful completion of drilling projects in demanding environments.
What are some common challenges faced by Drilling Rig Hands, and how can they be managed on the job?
Drilling Rig Hands often encounter physically demanding tasks, exposure to harsh weather, and long shifts that can extend beyond typical working hours. Maintaining safety is a top priority, as the work involves heavy machinery and potentially hazardous materials. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, since Rig Hands coordinate closely with other crew members to ensure smooth operations and prevent accidents. Adapting to changing conditions and staying attentive to safety protocols can help manage these challenges and contribute to a successful rig environment.
What are Drilling Rig Hands?
Drilling Rig Hands, often referred to as roughnecks, are entry-level workers on oil and gas drilling rigs. They are responsible for a variety of manual labor tasks such as handling drilling equipment, maintaining the rig, and assisting more experienced crew members with drilling operations. Rig Hands work in physically demanding environments and often follow strict safety protocols. Their work is essential to the smooth and efficient operation of drilling rigs. Over time, Rig Hands can advance to higher positions with experience and training.
What is the difference between Drilling Rig Hand vs Derrickhand?
| Aspect | Drilling Rig Hand | Derrickhand |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | High school diploma, safety training, basic certifications | Similar certifications, more specialized safety training |
| Work Environment | On drilling rigs, outdoors, physically demanding | On drilling rigs, working in the derrick, physically demanding |
| Job Responsibilities | Assisting with equipment, maintenance, safety procedures | Handling drilling fluid, maintaining the derrick, assisting in drilling operations |
The main difference between a Drilling Rig Hand and a Derrickhand lies in their specific roles on the rig. While both work in similar environments and require comparable certifications, Derrickhands focus more on managing drilling fluids and working in the derrick, whereas Drilling Rig Hands assist with general equipment and safety tasks. Both positions are essential for efficient drilling operations and often overlap in skills and training.
What are popular job titles related to Drilling Rig Hand jobs in Alberta? For Drilling Rig Hand jobs in Alberta, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drilling Rig Hand jobs in Alberta look for? The top searched job categories for Drilling Rig Hand jobs in Alberta are:
What cities in Alberta are hiring for Drilling Rig Hand jobs? Cities in Alberta with the most Drilling Rig Hand job openings:
Full-time
Posted 29 days ago
Job description
Description:
The Derrick hand is responsible for maintaining circulation equipment while drilling. During tripping operations the Derrick Hand works above the rig floor at the monkey board. The Derrick Hand would have worked their way up through the drilling rig positions, have a good knowledge all positions and will relieve the Driller once deemed competent.
Duties:
Work on the catwalk or operate the hydraulic catwalks,
Work and maintain circulation on mud tanks,
Mix mud & organize mud products,
Work and maintain pumps,
Work at heights while tripping and conducting derrick inspections,
Assist the crew in nipple up procedures,
Supervise and assist during rig up/out operation,
Assist in running casing,
Ensure anyone climbing the derrick uses a full body harness and fall protection above 2 meters,
Clean and practice good housekeeping in work areas and,
Assist the Driller in the maintenance of the drilling rig and other equipment.
Learn and adhere to all Company, Customer and Government Safety Policy, Procedures and Practices and Regulations.
About Akita Drilling
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