Derrickhand - Drilling

Western Energy - Drilling Services; Grande Prairie; On-site; CAD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Immediate Employee Benefits (medical,

dental and vision coverage

Matched Savings Program – up to 5%

Job summary

Western Energy - Drilling Services is seeking a Derrickhand to support safe and efficient handling of the drill string and drilling fluid systems at the rig location in Grande Prairie. You will monitor mud weights, operate related equipment, assist with tripping and pipe handling, and maintain records.

This seasonal, full-time role requires working at heights and in variable weather. The position emphasizes safety training (H2S Alive, CPR/First Aid, CSO) and reliable transportation.

Qualifications

• Experience on a drilling rig as Derrickhand is required.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination are essential.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Driller with maintenance of equipment for the drilling fluid system.
• Climb and work in the rig derrick to guide and handle drill pipe during tripping.
• Monitor drilling fluid properties, circulation rates, and mud handling equipment.
• Perform routine inspections and preventive maintenance on the circulating system.
• Work on/above the drilling floor guiding drill pipe during operations.
• Identify hazards and implement controls to maintain safety.
• Participate in incident investigations and support corrective actions.
• Promote a safe, healthy, and environmentally responsible worksite.

Skills

Drilling rig experience

Manual dexterity

Hand-eye coordination

English fluency (written/spoken)

Valid driver’s license

Education

H2S Alive

Standard First Aid with CPR

CSO (Common Safety Orientation)

Confined Space and Rescue

Fall Protection

Rig Rescue

Job description

The Derrickhand is responsible for the safe and efficient handling of the drill string and drilling fluid systems at the rig location. This position is accountable for overseeing the conditioning and circulation of drilling fluids, operating and monitoring related equipment, assisting the Driller during tripping operations, and ensuring proper pipe handling in the derrick. The Derrickhand is also responsible for mixing drilling chemicals, monitoring mud weights and pump systems, maintaining accurate records, and assisting with general housekeeping at the rig location. This position requires working at heights while performing duties in the rig derrick during pipe handling and tripping operations.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist the Driller with maintenance of equipment related to the drilling fluid circulation system.
• Climb and work in the rig derrick to guide and handle drill pipe during tripping operations
• Monitor and maintain drilling fluid properties, circulation rates, and mud handling equipment
• Perform routine inspections and preventative maintenance on the circulating system and associated equipment
• Work on and above drilling floor while safely guiding drill pipe during drilling operations
• Identify workplace hazards and implement appropriate controls
• Participate in incident investigations if required and assist with corrective action implementation.
• Promote and maintain a safe, healthy, and environmentally responsible worksite.

Specific Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Previous drilling rig experience working in Derrickhand position
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
• Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination

• Industry Certifications Preferred:
  • H2S Alive
  • Standard First Aid with CPR
  • CSO (Common Safety Orientation)
  • Confined Space and Rescue
  • Fall Protection
  • Rig Rescue
• Ability to pass pre-employment testing
• Fluent in Written/Spoken English
• Be willing to work in all weather conditions and work environments with work away from home for periods of time

What we offer:

• Immediate Employee Benefits, including medical, dental and vision coverage
• Matched Savings Program – up to 5%

Derrickhand position is full-time seasonal position. Seasonal work is based on operational requirements, project schedules, weather and environmental conditions and other factors outside our control.