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Trainee Derrick Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Crew Worker-Ventura, CA

Ventura, CA · On-site

$12.75 - $16.75/hr

... derrick guy-wires; operating hydraulic jacks, pads/boards; pipe or tubing racks, power tools ... CJWS Trainee program. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Critical: * Ability to wear personal ...

Crew Worker

Bakersfield, CA

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

... derrick guy-wires; operating hydraulic jacks, pads/boards; pipe or tubing racks, power tools ... One-year prior work in an oilfield services environment or completion of CJWS Trainee program.

... derrick guy-wires; operating hydraulic jacks, pads/boards; pipe or tubing racks, power tools ... CJWS Trainee program. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Critical: * Ability to wear personal ...

Crew Worker

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

... derrick guy-wires; operating hydraulic jacks, pads/boards; pipe or tubing racks, power tools ... One-year prior work in an oilfield services environment or completion of CJWS Trainee program.

... derrick guy-wires; operating hydraulic jacks, pads/boards; pipe or tubing racks, power tools ... CJWS Trainee program. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Critical: * Ability to wear personal ...

Crew Worker

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$12.50 - $16.25/hr

... derrick guy-wires; operating hydraulic jacks, pads/boards; pipe or tubing racks, power tools ... CJWS Trainee program. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Critical: Ability to wear personal ...

Crew Worker-Ventura, CA

Ventura, CA

$12.75 - $16.75/hr

... derrick guy-wires; operating hydraulic jacks, pads/boards; pipe or tubing racks, power tools ... CJWS Trainee program. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Critical: * Ability to wear personal ...

Trainee Derrick Operator information

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

To thrive as a Trainee Derrick Operator, you need a basic understanding of drilling operations, physical fitness, and usually a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with rig-specific safety protocols, hoisting equipment, and sometimes certifications like Well Control (IWCF) or H2S awareness are typical requirements. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and the ability to follow instructions under pressure are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for maintaining safety, operational efficiency, and minimizing risks in demanding drilling environments.

What is a trainee derrick operator?

Trainee Derrick Operators are entry-level workers in the oil and gas industry who assist experienced derrick operators with maintaining and operating the derrick—the tall structure used for drilling wells. Their responsibilities typically include helping to handle drilling pipes, monitoring drilling equipment, and ensuring the safety and efficiency of drilling operations. Trainees learn to carry out tasks under supervision, gradually building the skills needed to become fully qualified derrick operators. This role is physically demanding and requires strong attention to safety protocols.

What are some typical challenges faced by a trainee derrick operator during the first few months on the job?

As a Trainee Derrick Operator, one of the main challenges you'll encounter is adapting to the demanding physical environment and strict safety protocols of drilling operations. The role requires learning how to work at heights, handle heavy equipment, and respond quickly to changing conditions on the rig. Additionally, you'll need to develop strong teamwork skills, as you’ll closely coordinate with drillers, roughnecks, and other crew members. Overcoming the steep learning curve and building confidence in your technical abilities will be essential to progressing in this field.

What is the difference between Trainee Derrick Operator vs Derrick Operator?

AspectTrainee Derrick OperatorDerrick Operator
CertificationsBasic safety training, entry-level certificationsAdvanced certifications, specialized training
Work EnvironmentSupervised, training sites, entry-level rig sitesFull rig sites, independent operation
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with rig setup, learning equipment operationOperating derricks, managing drilling operations

The main difference between a Trainee Derrick Operator and a Derrick Operator is experience and responsibility level. Trainee Derrick Operators are in training, focusing on learning safety procedures and basic tasks under supervision. Derrick Operators are experienced professionals responsible for operating and maintaining drilling equipment independently. Both roles require safety certifications, but Derrick Operators typically hold more advanced credentials and have greater operational responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Derrick Operator jobs in California? The most popular types of Derrick Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Trainee Derrick Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Trainee Derrick Operator job openings:

Crew Worker-Ventura, CA

C&J Well Services, LLC

Ventura, CA • On-site

$12.75 - $16.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Key Accountabilities
  • Operates/uses rod wrenches, rod/tubing tongs, rod/tubing elevators, hand tools, powered rig tools, and other related equipment.
  • Assists in the rigging up/down of the well service unit as directed, by lifting, positioning, fastening derrick guy-wires; operating hydraulic jacks, pads/boards; pipe or tubing racks, power tools, handrails, etc.; and installing/removing emergency equipment such as derrick egress devices, SCBAs, fire extinguishers, and H2S monitors.
  • Lifts, removes, installs, and operates wellhead, pumping units matting boards, tubing, rods, casing, rod strippers, polish rods, JU stripper heads, and other production equipment as required to perform the contracted services.

  • Assists in the installation of blow-out preventers and equipment.
  • Participates in company-provided training in rig operations, Standard Operating Procedures, and safe work procedures.
  • Complies with all the Company's Safety and Environmental policies, practices, and programs. Takes corrective action within training limitations. Escalates as necessary.
  • Conducts route planning.
  • Maintains and organizes tools and equipment.
  • Conducts safety observations.
  • Develops and reviews Job Safety Plans (JSP).
  • Completes equipment inspections and audits.
  • Meets and greets all visitors and personnel on location to identify and communicate hazards.
  • May be required to drive a company, light or DOT-regulated commercial vehicle.
  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Education, Certificates, Licenses
  • High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Valid driver's license (C, CDL A or B) with record that qualifies individual to be an approved company driver issued by the state of residence

Experience
  • One-year prior work in an oilfield services environment or with/around heavy industrial machinery in the manufacturing, fabrication, transportation, construction, railroad, mining, shipyard, or agricultural equipment industries preferred OR completion of CJWS Trainee program.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Critical:
  • Ability to wear personal protective equipment and/or safety equipment including safety glasses, face shields, goggles, earmuffs/plugs, steel toe boots, hard hat, full body harness with applicable fall protection devices, SCBA (Self Contained Breathing Apparatus), H2S detectors, slicker or TYVEK suits and gloves.
  • Ability to work at heights up to or greater than 50 feet.
  • Able to perform tasks consistent with the company's Safe Operating Procedures, to provide the maximum protection for all workers at the work site, the environment, and the equipment; and complete the tasks efficiently.

Required:
  • Knowledge and ability to operate Rig Service Tools such as Power Tongs, BOP, and Wrenches.
  • Basic knowledge of Sand line procedure and process.
  • Basic knowledge of Rig Service Procedures and Processes e.g. RU/RD, POOH Rods/Tubing, RIH Rod/Tubing.
  • Demonstrated dependability i.e. reporting for work at the prescribed location and on time.
  • Ability to work beyond the traditional 8-hour work day; available to work Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays, to meet operational needs.
  • Ability to participate in and contribute to the collaborative resolution of challenges and issues within a team setting.

Desired:
  • Motor Vehicle Record qualifies an individual to be an approved company driver.

Work Environment
  • Heavy Work- Exerting 50 to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 25 to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or 10 to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical Demand requirements are in excess of those for Medium Work.
  • Exposed to outdoor elements such as extreme heat or cold, heavy winds, rain, or snow.
  • Exposed to loud noise level elements.
  • Required to drive to and access job sites, in light of day as well as in darkness, to perform work assignments. Some job site locations may be remote from the office requiring long drives to locations isolated from interaction with others and towns.
  • Required to balance, bend, squat, crouch, climb, reach, grasp, stoop, kneel, push/pull and lift objects, and use apparatus to push/pull and lift heavy objects weighing 50 lbs or more.
  • Subject to exposure to hazards such as but not limited to slippery or uneven surfaces; environmental/industry hazards such as chemicals, high-decibel noise from production equipment, fumes, or poor ventilation; proximity to moving objects and vehicles; potentially combustible components; hazardous off- road conditions such as dust, ice, and snow.
  • May be requested to work long hours to complete job assignments.
  • May work a rotating schedule, shift, and/or be on call.
  • Follow all company safety policies and protocols.
  • Required to perform active, physical tasks including but not limited to operating equipment and/or machinery and making adjustments and repairs.
  • Required to have visual acuity to work with parts, equipment, apparatus, etc.
  • Required to possess audible acuity to hear alarms in the event of emergency. field locations.

This job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties nor account for all abilities required to perform the job. It is a general description of the nature of the position.
The pay range for this position in California is between $28.00 per hour and $29.00 per hour. Please note that the hourly rate information is a general guideline, and that the hourly rate will vary depending on your location. C&J Well Services, LLC ("CJWS") will consider factors such as (but not limited to) scope of responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer. excellent benefits including full health benefits, 401(k) with company match and immediate vesting, and generous paid time off.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
C&J Well Services, LLC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
LINK to Equal Employment Opportunity Posters:
https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/ofccpost.htm
Reasonable Accommodation Notice
If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact Human Resources at 661-589-5220 or CJWSHR@cjws.com.
Pay Transparency Notice
C&J Well Services, LLC ("CJWS") will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against an applicant or employee because they have inquired about or discussed compensation.
Notice to Third Party Agencies
Please note that C&J Well Services, LLC ("CJWS") does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the absence of a signed Recruitment Agreement, CJWS will not consider or agree to payment of any referral compensation or recruiter fee. In the event a recruiter or agency submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed agreement, CJWS explicitly reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers, will not be reviewed or considered in part of the application process.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.