Derrickhand - Drilling
The Derrickhand is responsible for the safe handling of drill strings and drilling fluid systems at the rig site. They must also assist the Driller with equipment maintenance, pipe handling during tripping operations, and monitoring mud circulation.
- On-site
- Leduc, AB
- Posted Aug 6, 2026
- 1 position
Job summary
Western operates contract drilling services across Canada and maintains a United States presence through Stoneham Drilling. Within Canada, Western also provides well servicing and high-quality rental services to support a broad range of customer needs. Across all operations, the company remains committed to safe, efficient, and reliable energy service solutions. 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.
What you’ll do
The Derrickhand is responsible for the safe handling of drill strings and drilling fluid systems at the rig site. They must also assist the Driller with equipment maintenance, pipe handling during tripping operations, and monitoring mud circulation.
Requirements
Candidates must have previous experience in a Derrickhand position and possess a valid driver's license. Industry certifications such as H2S Alive, First Aid, and Fall Protection are preferred.
Benefits
• Medical coverage • Dental coverage • Vision coverage • Matched savings program
Other relevant skills
Identified from the job description. Confirm important requirements above.
- Drilling fluid systems
- Pipe handling
- Equipment maintenance
- Safety compliance
- Hazard identification
- Incident investigation
- Mud weight monitoring
- Pump system operation
- Tripping operations
- Preventative maintenance
- Manual dexterity
- Hand-eye coordination
- Working at Heights
- Project Schedules
- Fall Protection
- Valid Driver's License
- First Aid
- Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
- Housekeeping
- Drilling Fluid
- Drilling Rig
- English Language
- Fine Motor Skills
- Mud Systems
- Operations
- Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) Training
- Coordinating
- Investigation
Job areas
- Energy
- Trades
- Manufacturing
- Security & Safety
- Derrickhand
- Oilfield / Rig Worker
- Well Drillers and Borers and Related Workers
- Roustabouts, Oil and Gas
Additional details
- Minimum experience
- 2+ years
- Posting language
- English
- Working hours
- 40 hours per week
