Derrick Operators in Oil and Gas
Overview
Derrick Operators in oil and gas work high above the ground on drilling rigs, setting up and maintaining the tall metal tower called the derrick. They mix and control drilling mud using water, clay, and chemicals, then operate powerful pumps to circulate this fluid through the drill pipe to cool the drill bit and carry rock cuttings back to the surface. They inspect and repair equipment like pumps, mud tanks, and cables, guide heavy steel pipes into and out of the well, and often supervise and train crew members to keep the entire drilling operation safe, efficient, and on schedule.
Did you know?
This occupation involves significant physical labor and exposure to hazardous conditions, requiring strict adherence to safety protocols and maintaining excellent physical fitness.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$60,918.13 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top Skill
Monitoring
Key Responsibilities
- Inspect derricks for flaws, and clean and oil derricks to maintain proper working conditions.
- Weigh clay, and mix with water and chemicals to make drilling mud, using portable mixers.
- Set and bolt crown blocks to posts at tops of derricks.
- Steady pipes during connection to or disconnection from drill or casing strings.
- Repair pumps, mud tanks, and related equipment.
- Listen to mud pumps and check regularly for vibration and other problems to ensure that rig pumps and drilling mud systems are working properly.
- Clamp holding fixtures on ends of hoisting cables.
- Control the viscosity and weight of the drilling fluid.
- Supervise crew members, and provide assistance in training them.
- String cables through pulleys and blocks.
- Position and align derrick elements, using harnesses and platform climbing devices.
- Prepare mud reports, and instruct crews about the handling of any chemical additives.
- Guide lengths of pipe into and out of elevators.
- Inspect derricks, or order their inspection, prior to being raised or lowered.
- Start pumps that circulate mud through drill pipes and boreholes to cool drill bits and flush out drill cuttings.
Career Considerations
High Safety Risk and Physical Demands
This occupation involves significant physical labor and exposure to hazardous conditions, requiring strict adherence to safety protocols and maintaining excellent physical fitness.
Geographic Mobility Requirements
Employment opportunities are concentrated in specific regions like Texas, North Dakota, and Alaska, often requiring relocation or extended travel to remote work sites.
Industry Economic Volatility
Job security is closely tied to oil and gas market fluctuations, with employment levels varying significantly during industry boom and bust cycles.