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Career Exploration

Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas

Also called: Derrick Hand, Derrick Man, Derrick Operator, Floor Hand

What they do:

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

On the job, you would:
  • Inspect derricks, or order their inspection, prior to being raised or lowered.
  • Inspect derricks for flaws, and clean and oil derricks to maintain proper working conditions.
  • Control the viscosity and weight of the drilling fluid.
On the job, you'll need:

Engineering and Technology

  • mechanical

Math and Science

  • arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics

Arts and Humanities

  • English language

Education and Training

  • teaching and course design

Basic Skills

  • thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
  • keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements

Problem Solving

  • noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Hand and Finger Use

  • hold or move items with your hands
  • keep your arm or hand steady

Controlled Movement

  • use your arms and/or legs together while sitting, standing, or lying down
  • quickly change the controls of a machine, car, truck or boat

Endurance

  • exercise for a long time without getting out of breath

Hearing and Speech

  • pay attention to one sound while there are other distracting sounds

Realistic

People interested in this work like activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.

  • Dependability
  • Cooperation
  • Stress Tolerance
  • Concern for Others
  • Self Control
  • Attention to Detail

Spreadsheet software

  • Microsoft Excel

Electronic mail software

  • Microsoft Outlook

Word processing software

  • Microsoft Word

Video courtesy of CareerOneStop.

Job Outlook

The job outlook for this position is Below Average.

New job opportunities are less likely in the future.

Median Annual Salary: $51,220

Education

No high school diploma/GED or high school diploma/GED is usually needed.