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EnergyTop JobColorado Talent Pipeline Report-aligned occupation with strong annual openings, growth, and wage signals.

Derrick Operator

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

Annual openings

35

Median wage

$64,730

Typical education

Some jobs may require a High school diploma or GED

Growth 2026–2032

+2%

Median wage source: Colorado BLS OEWS (2025).

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Career requirements

What does this career require?

Explore education, required qualifications, voluntary credentials and employer preferences for this role. Check the details to see which apply.

Typical education

Some jobs may require a High school diploma or GED

Credential requirement

No certification is required or expected for this job.

Work experience

This is an entry-level role so no experience is required.

Many people break into the industry doing construction or working on a drilling rig before moving into a more advanced job.

Is this work a fit?

What the work actually feels like

How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.

Automation exposure

High exposure

Many tasks are repeatable, so technology could reshape the day-to-day over time.

A typical day

  1. Guide lengths of pipe into and out of elevators.
  2. Inspect derricks, or order their inspection, prior to being raised or lowered.
  3. Inspect derricks for flaws, and clean and oil derricks to maintain proper working conditions.
  4. Repair pumps, mud tanks, and related equipment.
  5. Listen to mud pumps and check regularly for vibration and other problems to ensure that rig pumps and drilling mud systems are working properly.
  6. Supervise crew members, and provide assistance in training them.
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