Oil drill operations rely on the use of derricks
for their production.
An oil derrick is used to dig a hole
for an oil well, then to push the drill pipe
deep into the earth.
A mud mixture is sprayed from the drill bit
to push material from the cuttings
up out of the hole
and cool the drill equipment,
as well as to keep the bore hole stable.
Then a well pipe replaces the drill pipe,
so oil can be pumped out,
using valves to allow the oil
to move up the bore hole
without sliding back down.
Many workers at oil and gas drilling sites
share duties to keep wells
operating efficiently and safely.
Derrick operators and rotary drill operators
keep the mud, made of water, clay,
air, and chemicals, flowing,
so drills run smoothly.
These workers listen to drills
to ensure the vibrations are normal
and may collect samples of material
from the hole to monitor output.
Derrick and drill operators
place derricks in the correct location
and keep them running around the clock,
monitoring gauges, repairing equipment,
and checking for problems.
Drill operators also train drill crews
on procedures and safety measures.
Wellhead pumpers operate pumps
that force oil and gas out of wells
and into storage tanks and pipelines.
They also monitor other production equipment
and ensure that materials
are being pumped at the correct pressure,
density and concentration.
Service unit operators
work in oil and gas drilling,
as well as mining operations,
to troubleshoot drilling issues
and resolve them.
They use equipment to increase
oil flow from producing wells,
or to remove stuck pipes, tools,
or other obstructions from drilling wells
and mining exploration operations.
These workers are employed
by the oil and gas industry
at construction sites and drilling rigs.
They may work on offshore oil platforms
drilling the ocean floor,
or in remote locations in the far north
or Middle East,
which may require living onsite
for long periods.
Work may be seasonal,
and shifts are often around the clock.
Extreme weather conditions
and dealing with heights
is also part of the job.
Machinery is noisy, and safety rules are critical.
Wellhead pumpers typically need
a high school diploma,
while derrick operators, rotary drill operators,
and service unit operators typically have
no specific education requirements.