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Motorhand Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

The Motorhand's primary duty is to ensure that all equipment is operating and functioning properly and execute minor repair work on equipment. The Motorhand is responsible for the generators ...

The Motorhand's primary duty is to ensure that all equipment is operating and functioning properly and execute minor repair work on equipment. The Motorhand is responsible for the generators ...

Driller - Lower Rockies

Fruita, CO · On-site

$22.75 - $31/hr

Additional responsibilities include delegating tasks to Derrickhand, Motorhand, and Floorhands based on drilling activities. The Driller must be able to communicate with a variety of employees and ...

Driller - Lower Rockies

Fruita, CO · On-site

$22.75 - $31/hr

Additional responsibilities include delegating tasks to Derrickhand, Motorhand, and Floorhands based on drilling activities. The Driller must be able to communicate with a variety of employees and ...

Responsible for picking up and laying down tubulars, attaching or detaching pick- up lines, and the hook up and tear out of flare and degasser lines * Assist Motorhand with preventative maintenance ...

Demonstrated ability to successfully complete all duties of a Floorhand and Motorhand * Must be comfortable working at heights (50 ft. or greater) for extended periods of time * Able to repetitively ...

Responsible for picking up and laying down tubulars, attaching or detaching pick- up lines, and the hook up and tear out of flare and degasser lines * Assist Motorhand with preventative maintenance ...

Demonstrated ability to successfully complete all duties of a Floorhand and Motorhand * Must be comfortable working at heights (50 ft. or greater) for extended periods of time * Able to repetitively ...

Motorhand information

What are motorhands?

Motorhands are workers on drilling rigs who are responsible for maintaining, operating, and repairing the engines and other mechanical equipment that power the rig. They ensure all machinery, including diesel engines, pumps, and generators, run smoothly to support drilling operations. Motorhands perform regular inspections, troubleshoot mechanical issues, and assist other crew members as needed. This role requires mechanical aptitude, attention to safety protocols, and the ability to work in physically demanding conditions.

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

To thrive as a Motorhand, you need mechanical aptitude, basic knowledge of diesel engines and hydraulic systems, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with tools such as wrenches, torque tools, and oilfield equipment, as well as safety certifications like H2S and First Aid, are commonly required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help Motorhands excel in demanding, safety-critical environments. These skills ensure efficient maintenance of drilling equipment, minimize downtime, and promote a safe workplace on oil rigs.

What are some common challenges faced by Motorhands on drilling rigs, and how can they be addressed?

Motorhands often encounter challenges such as working in harsh weather conditions, maintaining equipment under pressure, and handling physically demanding tasks. To address these challenges, it's important to prioritize safety, follow established maintenance routines, and communicate effectively with team members. Building strong technical skills and staying adaptable can also help Motorhands manage unexpected equipment issues and contribute to a smooth drilling operation.

What is the difference between Motorhand vs Deckhand?

AspectMotorhandDeckhand
CertificationsMarine engine operation, safety trainingBasic safety, STCW certifications often required
Work EnvironmentEngine rooms, machinery spacesDeck, outdoor, cargo areas
Job RoleMaintains and operates engines and machineryAssists with cargo, maintenance, and deck operations
Industry UsageMaritime shipping, offshore oilFishing, cargo ships, offshore platforms

Motorhands focus on engine maintenance and machinery, working primarily in engine rooms, while deckhands handle cargo, deck maintenance, and general ship duties. Both roles are essential in maritime operations but differ in responsibilities and work environments.

What are popular job titles related to Motorhand jobs in Colorado? For Motorhand jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Motorhand jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Motorhand job openings:
Infographic showing various Motorhand job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Motorhand -Lower Rockies

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


Patterson-UTI rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

81st of 86 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

Patterson-UTI Drilling

The New Standard for Drilling Performance

Drill safer, smarter and faster with Patterson-UTI Drilling's comprehensive fleet of pad-capable rigs featuring advanced walking systems to enhance your operations so you can reach your apex.

The Motorhand's primary duty is to ensure that all equipment is operating and functioning properly and execute minor repair work on equipment.  The Motorhand is responsible for the generators, equipment, and systems that power the rig and drilling activities.  Additional responsibilities include off-loading materials, maintaining equipment, and assisting in rig up and rig down.  The Motorhand works closely with and oversees Floorhands on the rig floor, assists the Derrickhand as needed, and assists the Driller in day-to-day operations.

Detailed Description:

  • Lift and place slips weighing approximately 150 pounds with another person occasionally during the tour work shift
  • Independently use heavy-duty handheld and long-handled tools
  • Listen for unusual noises that signify equipment and machinery problems
  • Maintain spatial orientation and awareness to safely move around work environment with many moving objects
  • Take initiative and work independently during downtime
  • Wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all designated times which could include but is not limited to: hard hat, safety glasses, coveralls, work gloves, respirator, and hearing protection
  • Regularly inspect, maintain, and repair generators, equipment, and SCR or VFD house
  • Responsible for hydraulic and electrical systems and equipment
  • Ensure that all preventative maintenance is performed on all equipment and that all log sheets and maintenance sheets are filled out correctly and are up to date on all required equipment
  • Responsible for daily inspection of the following: working order of all main engines, air compressors and air system, electrical equipment, BOP and accumulator, engine radiators, circulating water pumps, oil transfer pumps, and the running order and blow down of the boiler
  • Work in a heavy industrial environment which includes working around constantly moving overhead machinery, being in close proximity to loud equipment and handling potentially hazardous chemicals
  • Inspect main engines every tour for proper working order by checking the following: oil level, coolant, gauges, possible oil leaks, noise and vibrations and changing oil as needed
  • Provide instructions, train, and oversee Floorhands during drilling activities
  • Regularly check rig and equipment for problems and safety issues on an ongoing basis
  • Use forklift to off-load and move materials
  • In charge of all lock-out/tag-out of breakers
  • Keep a daily log of maintenance and repair activities
  • Assist Derrickhand with mixing chemicals and other mud maintenance as needed
  • Assist with rig up / down procedures
  • General upkeep of the rig and drilling floor; includes regular sweeping, shoveling, cleaning, painting, washing of equipment and related housekeeping duties
  • Support other crew members as needed, ensure compliance with safety procedures, and other additional tasks as assigned
  • Other duties as assigned that may be outside of this job description

Job Requirements:

  • Demonstrated ability to successfully complete all duties of a Floorhand
  • Ability or aptitude to maintain and repair various types of equipment, engines and machinery
  • Able to stand or stand and walk for a minimum of 3.5 hours and up to 12 hours without being able to sit and while wearing steel-toed boots 
  • Able to repetitively climb steep stairs and be able to lift and carry 50 pounds independently while walking on uneven surfaces
  • Must be comfortable working at heights (50 ft. or greater) for extended periods of time
  • Bend, stoop, kneel, twist, and crawl throughout the tour work shift
  • Clear vision to judge near and far distances to maintain awareness of, watch, and report ongoing work activities to coworkers and third parties
  • Accurate recall over short and long-term memory
  • Stay alert and focused up to 12.5 hours while performing repetitive and routine activities
  • Demonstrate clear communication skills including ability to read, write and speak English as well as understand and promptly follow verbal and written instructions in English
  • Willing to travel to and work in remote locations on a rotational schedule which consists of 14 days on / 14 days off, working 12.5 hour shifts that can include days or nights and as well as weekends and holidays
  • Willing to work mandatory and unscheduled hours outside of your assigned schedule with little or no advanced notice
  • Must be willing and able to attend and successfully complete classroom training and testing to qualify for a rig assignment
  • Able to successfully meet pre-employment testing requirements which may include, without limitation, pre-employment drug and alcohol test(s) and background checks as well as drug and/or alcohol testing periodically during employment (subject to state and federal laws)

Minimum Qualifications

  • Internal applicants will need at least 3 months experience as a Floorhand and the external applicant will need at least 3 months of Motorhand experience

Certification

  • Forklift Certification or willingness to complete Forklift Certification training within 60 days

Preferred Qualifications

  • 6 months of experience as a Motorhand on a land drilling rig
  • High School Diploma or GED                                                                                                                                      

Additional Details:

This position requires the person to work outdoors for an entire tour work shift in all kinds of weather conditions, including precipitation, cold / heat, high wind, and turbulent conditions.  They will be exposed to the typical conditions of the local area where the rig is located.  Southern states generally experience hot summers where temperatures range from 80 to low 100 with high humidity; winters have temperatures that generally do not go below 20.  Northern states generally have hot summers with similar conditions and have cold, windy winters, with low temperatures that can be as cold as -40.

Rate of Pay:  Starting at $28.50/hr.

This role is classified as Hourly

The role is eligible to receive per diem

At Patterson-UTI, we are committed to providing a comprehensive benefits package to you and your family. Employees are eligible to participate in the following benefits based on timely election and any associated premium payments:  Medical, Prescription, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Account with the appropriate Medical Plan, Life Insurance, AD&D and Disability, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance,  401(k) Retirement Savings and Employee Assistance Program.  In addition, this role may be eligible for Paid Time Off as per Company policy

The wage and benefits information provided herein are accurate as of the date of posting.  All terms and conditions of employment are subject to change at any time, without notice, subject to applicable law.


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