Career roadmap
How to Become a Derrick Operator
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a derrick operator, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a derrick operator: (1) get safety training, (2) start as a floorhand, (3) learn the mud system, (4) get comfortable at heights, (5) advance. Most people need about Under 5 years of rig experience. BLS lists “no formal educational credential” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a derrick operator
Get safety training
RigPass and H2S.
Start as a floorhand
Learn rig operations.
Learn the mud system
Train with derrickhands.
Get comfortable at heights
Fall protection training.
Advance
Become a derrickhand, then a driller.
Education and training requirements
No formal education is required. Derrickhands learn on the job, usually after working as floorhands.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | No formal educational credential |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | Less than 5 years |
| On-the-job training | Short-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | Under 5 years of rig experience |
Certifications and licenses
- IADC RigPass: Rig safety orientation.
- IADC WellSharp: Well control training.
- H2S Clear: Hydrogen sulfide safety.
- Fall protection training: Work at heights.
Skills to build now
Start with pipe handling, drilling fluids, and mud testing, and practice teamwork and focus. Learning the derrick operator vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Floorhand: Work the rig floor.
- Derrickhand: Handle pipe and mud.
- Driller: Run the rig floor.
- Toolpusher: Manage the rig.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Derrick Operator training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a derrick operator?
Most people need about Under 5 years of rig experience of training. No formal education is required. Derrickhands learn on the job, usually after working as floorhands.
Do you need a degree to be a derrick operator?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “no formal educational credential” as the typical entry-level education, plus short-term on-the-job training.
What certifications are available for derrick operators?
Common credentials include IADC RigPass, IADC WellSharp, H2S Clear, and Fall protection training. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 47-5011 (Derrick operators, oil and gas).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Derrick operators, oil and gas (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.