Career comparison
Derrick Operator vs. Extraction Helper
Side-by-side pay, training, growth and day-to-day duties to help you choose between two related careers.
Derrick operators earn more at the median ($58,620 vs. $47,730), while extraction helpers usually get to work faster (Weeks to months on the job of training). Derrick operators work high in the drilling rig handling pipe and managing drilling mud. Extraction helpers assist miners, drillers and crews in mines and oil fields.
Pay data: BLS OEWS, May 2025 · Outlook: BLS 2025–35 · Checked October 15, 2026
| Derrick Operator | Extraction Helper | |
|---|---|---|
| Median pay | $58,620 ($28.18/hr) | $47,730 ($22.95/hr) |
| Pay range (10th–90th) | $43,380 – $81,800 | $36,960 – $68,020 |
| Job growth, 2025–35 | +1.6% (slower than average) | +1.7% (slower than average) |
| Openings per year | 900 | 700 |
| Typical entry education | No formal educational credential | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Training time | Under 5 years of rig experience | Weeks to months on the job |
| Key credential | IADC RigPass | MSHA training |
| Work setting | Derrick operators work on drilling rigs, at heights on the derrick and around the mud system, in all weather.. | Helpers work outdoors at mines, quarries and oil fields.. |
What each job does
Derrick Operator
- Handle pipe from the monkeyboard
- Mix and condition drilling mud
- Test mud weight and properties
- Maintain mud pumps and solids control
- Inspect derrick equipment
Extraction Helper
- Carry tools and supplies
- Clean equipment
- Help set up drills
- Move pipe
- Clean sites
How they’re similar
Both careers involve working outdoors, physical work, hands-on work, and teamwork. Both are part of the energy & utilities field, so many skills transfer between them.
Which should you choose?
Choose derrick operator if…
- I’m comfortable at heights
- I want good pay without a degree
- I can handle rotations away from home
Choose extraction helper if…
- I want to start in energy
- I’m strong
- I like outdoor work
Still torn? Take the Derrick Operator fit quiz and the Extraction Helper fit quiz, or the full Career Match Quiz.
Quick comparisons
Which pays more, derrick operator or extraction helper?
Derrick Operators earn more at the median: $58,620 versus $47,730 for extraction helpers, based on BLS May 2025 data.
Which takes less time to train for?
Extraction Helpers typically train faster (Weeks to months on the job) than derrick operators (Under 5 years of rig experience).
Which career has better job growth?
BLS projects extraction helpers to grow +1.7% from 2025–35, compared with +1.6% for derrick operators.