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

Other names for Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas: Derrick Hand, Derrick Man, Derrick Operator, Derrick Worker, Driller, Floor Hand, Rotary Derrick Operator, Well Service Derrick Worker,

• 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, in order 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.
• Prepare mud reports, and instruct crews about the handling of any chemical additives.
• Clamp holding fixtures on ends of hoisting cables.
• Weigh clay, and mix with water and chemicals in order to make drilling mud, using portable mixers.
• String cables through pulleys and blocks.
• Steady pipes during connection to or disconnection from drill or casing strings.
• Inspect derricks, or order their inspection, prior to being raised or lowered.
• Inspect derricks for flaws, and clean and oil derricks in order to maintain proper working conditions.