Jobs on a Drilling Rig
Drilling Contractor:
Business person who specializes in drilling. Companies who wish
wells drilled call for bids to drill well(s) to certain depths and other specifics.
A good record as a responsible, competent contractor will help win bids.
Toolpusher:
Hired by the drilling contractor to supervise a drilling rig and its
crews. Since the rig operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, this usually means
supervising three crews, supervising the drilling operation, and working with the
contractor. While the rig is operating, the "toolpush" is always on call.
Driller:
The driller is directly responsible for the drilling of the hole:
supervising the rig crew, controlling what happens on the rig floor, and running the
controls which drill the well.
Derrickhand:
When the pipe must be taken out (tripping out) to change bits or for other
reasons, the derrickhand handles the top end of the pipe rack. Working on the
"monkey board" high overhead, the derrickhand helps stack the pipe and then when
the pipe is tripped in, guides the top end of each pipe as it is rejoined to the drill
string. In between trips, the derrickhand usually operates the mud system, making
sure it is meeting the specifications for drilling a particular part of the hole.
Roughnecks:
Usually two per drilling crew, the roughnecks handle the lower end of the
pipe when it is tripping out or in. They also attach each length of new drill pipe
as it is needed as the well gets deeper. This is heavy, exacting work and requires
precise timing and teamwork. Roughnecks also maintain and repair the rig, and other
equipment, and keep the rig floor a safe operating area.
