Occupation information for Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas United States

Watch Job Video

description

Rig derrick equipment and operate pumps to circulate mud or fluid through drill hole.

Compare Skills

details

Currently Employed: 11,900

Projected Annual Job Openings: 1,200

Typical Hourly Wage: $20.96 - $29.60

Typical Annual Salary: $43,590 - $61,570

See Job Listings (58) Find Businesses

typical training

Typical education needed for entry: No formal educational credential

Typical work experience needed for a job in this occupation: No work experience

Typical on-the-job training once you have a job in this occupation: Less than 1 month on-the-job training

Find Training

typical job duties

Inspect derricks for flaws, and clean and oil derricks to maintain proper working conditions.
Inspect derricks, or order their inspection, prior to being raised or lowered.
Control the viscosity and weight of the drilling fluid.
Repair pumps, mud tanks, and related equipment.
Set and bolt crown blocks to posts at tops of derricks.
Listen to mud pumps and check regularly for vibration and other problems to ensure that rig pumps and drilling mud systems are working properly.
Start pumps that circulate mud through drill pipes and boreholes to cool drill bits and flush out drill cuttings.
Position and align derrick elements, using harnesses and platform climbing devices.
Supervise crew members, and provide assistance in training them.
Guide lengths of pipe into and out of elevators.

tools & technology

Tools:

Technology:

more info